Enquired about one of
these today at Daley's:
Definitely going to get one when available and plant in garden, probably in the front, near the path from the small gate. Make it block stuff from the road. There seems to be two varieties - one with a more whitey-pink flower and another with pinky-pink. I would prefer the latter.
The Cape Chestnut is actually a member of the citrus family Rutaceae and has its origins in africa. The Calodendrum capense tree is used in Africa for its rich oil called Yangu, high in antioxidants and amino acids and containing an inherent sunscreen, it is used to make skin care products.
The cape chestnut (Calodendrum capense) is one of the most beautiful subtropical trees, especially when it’s in flower.
Perfumed pink or white flowers form large clusters at the ends of branches so the tree appears covered with blossom from November to January.
The petals are dotted with oil glands which reflect light and the flowers seem to glow in the sunlight. It has a straight greyish trunk and its mid-green, evergreen leaves form a dense rounded canopy 9–15m tall.
Plant it in full sun in slightly acidic, well-drained soil with plenty of compost and mulch. Water well in spring and summer for the best flowers, give it space to grow so its 9m-wide canopy can fully develop and protect from strong winds when young.
It makes a beautiful feature tree in even a small garden as it branches fairly high up, leaving lots of space below to plant beneath.
Birds and butterflies also love it, and if you want a truly stunning display plant it alongside a jacaranda or Illawarra flame tree.
_______________________________________________________________
30 Nov 2017:
My cape chestnut arrived from Daleys's Nursery this week. Planted it this morning. I hope it grows big and strong!
