Tree wisteria is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree, usually with multiple stems occurring on heavy alkaline soils. Its dark grey bark is rough and deeply fissured longitudinally. Its pale blue to violet flowers occur in loose hanging bunches from August through January. It can be confused with the invasive Argentinian Jacaranda. In spring, the flowers can sometimes be white.
Tree wisteria's bark is used in decoctions and dried powdered form for stomach ailments. Root infusions are used to induce vomiting.
The straight growing stems are very hard, termite resistant, heavy, durable and suitable for fence posts and furniture. Although tree wisteria's wood is attractive and durable, its use is limited because it only yields small pieces. However, these small pieces work well on a lathe, turning out beautiful lampshades and other ornaments.
The term 'Bolusanthus' is derived from and honors Harry Bolus (1834 to 1911) who was a South African botanist and founder of the Cape Town Bolus Herbarium. 'Speciosus' means beautiful or showy in Latin.
I'd like to get bolusanthus speciosus seeds via mail. Can anyone help me?
Posted by: Mariel C. | January 18, 2007 at 07:33 PM