Tipu tree

Tipu tree

Tipuana tipu

Common Name:

Tipu tree

Scientific Name:

Tipuana tipu


Alternative common names:

Pride of Bolivia, racehorse tree, rosewood (English); tipoeboom (Afrikaans)

Description:

Large, massively branched, wide-spreading deciduous tree up to 23m high. Bright green, smooth leaves. Large sprays of golden-yellow flowers in late spring and summer. Yellowish-brown, seeded, winged pods 50-60mm long. Freely self-seeding.

Additional Information


Where does this species come from?

Brazil, Bolivia and Argentina in South America.

What is its invasive status in South Africa?

Existing legislation: CARA 2002 - Category 3 NEMBA - Category 3

Where in South Africa is it a problem?

KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, Limpopo and Gauteng.

How does it spread?

Seed dispersal.

Why is it a problem?

Competes with and has the potential to replace indigenous species particularly along river banks. Because of its large size even a single tree could have a detrimental effect on a natural ecosystem. Trees along watercourses are likely to cause a significant reduction in stream flow.

What does it look like?

General description: A large wide-spreading deciduous tree.
Leaves: Bright green, smooth leaves
Flowers: Large sprays of golden-yellow flowers in late spring and summer.
Fruit/seeds: Yellowish-brown, seeded, winged pods 50-60mm long.

Does the plant have any uses?

Ornament, shade; provides honey, fodder, timber.

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