Corkwood (Kanniedoodboom)

Corkwood (Kanniedoodboom) #

Commiphora pyracanthoides

Commiphora pyracanthoides

Quick Info #

  • Distribution & habitat: Transvaal – low-lying areas and dry bushveld
  • Family: Burseraceae
  • Florescence: September to October
  • Fruiting: roughly November to March
  • Leaf habit: deciduous
  • Name origin: the tree is called “Firethorn corkwood” due to its orange-red leaves in the dry season
  • Other names: chitonto (Bemba), commiphora, firethorn corkwood, nsofwa (Kunda)

Description #

The corkwood grows into a dense shrub or a smallish tree. The small, reddish flowers grow in clusters, and so do the blue-green, hairless leaves. The greyish-green, smooth bark peels off in small, paper-thin flocci.

The berries are ovoid and glossy. They’re rather small at around 1 cm long. They have sharp tips and split open. The seeds inside are enjoyed by birds.

The corkwood is very closely related to Commiphora glandulosa.

Uses & Ecology #

The roots are juicy, and so they are dug up by various animals. The twigs can be used to start a fire.

The corkwood has remarkable ornamental value. It is also said to have a number of traditional uses.

Caution: Do not medically use or ingest any plant parts before consulting a qualified health practitioner. Any mentioned traditional uses are based on cultural practices and anecdotal evidence. They are not necessarily clinically proven or supported by modern scientific studies.

References #