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Ptaeroxylon obliquum

Common names: Sneezewood (E); umthathe (Z); Nieshout (A);

Native to: Southern Africa
Tree

Ptaeroxylon obliquum

EVERGREEN

SEMI-DECIDUOUS

FULL SUN

FROST HARDY

MEDIUM WATER REQUIREMENTS

MEDIUM GROWER

ATTRACTS BIRDS

ATTRACTS INSECTS

FLOWER COLOUR:

AVERAGE SIZE:

12m x 6m
FLOWERING TIME:
J F M A M J J A S O N D
FRUITING TIME:
J F M A M J J A S O N D

Ptaeroxylon obliquum

DESCRIPTION

An evergreen to semi-deciduous tree with a dark grey bark bearing deep longitudinal and inter-linked furrows. The leaves are opposite and compound. The leaflets are dark green with an entire margin and slightly wavy edges. The cream flowers are sweetly scented and appear on short branched heads. The fruit is an oblong reddish brown capsule.

LANDSCAPING USES
An ideal tree for a small garden.
GARDEN THEMES
Bushveld, Country, Forest, Formal, Woodland
FOLIAGE
BARK
FRUIT

12 responses

  1. Hi Ellie

    Thanks for visiting Plantbook.

    I’ve noticed some trees do not flower prolifically or sometimes at all if they are experiencing a drought or getting too much water. You’ve mentioned a drought, so I’m assumming you’re in the south of the country as we’ve had exceptional rainfall in Gauteng. The lack of water can stress some plants and they may not produce flowers as their energy is spent on survival instead.

    Flourish!
    Glenice
    If

  2. Hi. Though lots is published about sneezewood though I can not find if they bloom every year or not. Just it seems that I do not see flower every year, maybe the drought, would that be possible? Than you in advance. Ellie

  3. Hi Peter

    Thanks for visiting Plantbook.

    Ptaeroxylon obliquum is best planted at least 2m from any structure if your site conditions permit.

    For Loxostylis alata, the most obvious difference is that the female tree bears fruit. The male flowers are white and pleasantly scented while the female flowers have greenish tinge.

    Flourish!
    Glenice

  4. Hi, will a sneezewood work close to a garden wall? A meter or one and a half metre away.
    How can I distinguish male and female tarwood trees from one another?

  5. Hi Naz

    The ultimate height of any tree will depend on the conditions, soil mix and individual character of the tree so there is no guarantee that your desired size will be obtained.

    Note also that Ptaeroxylon obliquum is generally a slow-growing species.

    Flourish!
    Glenice

  6. Hi, you previously answered that planting this tree in a small pot would stunt its growth. Would it be possible to provide a rough idea of the height of the tree to expect in a fairly large pot? We are looking at hopefully a 6-8m tree, 5m would also suffice. Thanks 🙂

  7. Hi Pam

    Thanks for visiting Plantbook.

    Yes, Ptaeroxylon obliquum can survive in a large pot. Remember though that a tree naturally needs to send out roots to sustain healthy growth. As the nutrients in a pot are limited by the size of the pot you may find that your tree may have stunted growth and a shorter lifespan.

    Flourish!
    Glenice

  8. Hi Sampie

    Thanks for visiting Plantbook.

    Young trees can be planted out when they reach the 3-leaf stage.

    Flourish!
    Glenice

  9. Hi Greg

    Unfortunately we can’t help you directly, but perhaps try contacting the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens who have experts responsible for the conservation of our magnificent trees.

    Flourish!
    Glenice

  10. Hello, I am on a quest to find seed sources in South Africa for the many hardwood trees that are noted for their extreme density, such as Leadwood, Black Ironwood, Pock Ironwood, White Ironwood, Cape Olive, Sneezewood, Milkwood. I am also looking to collect dried branches of at least two meters in length, to use for exercise as in quarterstaff practice. Any help will be appreciated. Your country is blessed to have such wondrous species of living treasures in these hardwood, but it is sad that so many are being cut down for firewood, including the Knobwood that offers hope in curing malaria with extracts from it. Thank you for your time and assistance.

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