Calodendrum capense (Cape Chestnut)

Calodendrum capense (Cape Chestnut) tree with pale pink flower clusters and dark green leaves
Calodendrum capense (Cape Chestnut) tree covered in dense masses of delicate light pink flower clusters

Botanical names: Calodendrum capense, Dictamnus calodendrum

Common name: Cape Chestnut

Family: Rutaceae

Origin: Southern Africa

USDA Plant Hardiness Map

USDA Zone: 9-11

Small tree 10-20 ftPlant form: Small tree
Plant mature sizeMature height: 10-20 ft
Full sunSemi-shadeShadeSun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor; semi-shade; shade
Cold toleranceCold tolerance: Frost sensitive. Protect from freezing.
Watering: Regular. Let topsoil dry slightlyWatering: Moderate. Water when top soil feels dryWatering: Regular; moderate
Pink flowersWhite, off-white flowersFlower color: Pink; white and off-white
Suitable forSuitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing
Deciduous plantFoliage: Deciduous
Plant attracts butterflies, hummingbirdsWildlife: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds
Ethnomedical plant. Plants marked as ethnomedical and/or described as medicinal, are not offered as medicine but rather as ornamentals or plant collectibles. Ethnomedical statements / products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We urge all customers to consult a physician before using any supplements, herbals or medicines advertised here or elsewhere.Ethnomedical: Ethnomedical plant, traditionally used in folk or indigenous medicine

Calodendrum capense is a very ornamental tree, suitable for use as a shade or specimen tree in gardens and parks, also as a street tree. It does best in deep fertile, well-composted soil with plenty of moisture, particularly during spring and summer, and requires a warm sunny position. To develop and maintain its shapely canopy, it requires protection from strong, sustained winds.

At the south and east coast of southern Africa this tree is often evergreen, but inland it is deciduous.

Cape chestnut oil, obtained from the seeds, otherwise known as Yangu oil, is a popular oil in African skin care.

Similar plants: Calodendrum capense (Cape Chestnut)


Calodendrum capense (Cape Chestnut) with clusters of delicate pink flowers on a leafy plant.
Calodendrum capense (Cape Chestnut) branches covered in abundant clusters of light pink flower petals and foliage.
Calodendrum capense (Cape Chestnut) with light pink flower clusters, close up shot.
Calodendrum capense (Cape Chestnut) with delicate pink flower clusters extending from dark green leaves.
Calodendrum capense (Cape Chestnut) pink flower cluster in close up with dark green leaves
Calodendrum capense (Cape Chestnut) cluster of delicate pink flowers with small purple speckles on petals
Calodendrum capense (Cape Chestnut) tree with pink flower clusters covering the dark green foliage canopy.
Calodendrum capense (Cape Chestnut) tree covered in dense pink flower clusters amidst deep green foliage.


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