Annickia sp.

Annickia sp. is a large shrub or small tree growing up 5-10 feet tall, native to Tropical Africa and South Africa. A gorgeous sight to behold with its long, branchy tree and white-gray stems, the Annickia sp. has beautiful rounded, yellow to orange flowers. It prefers full sun to semi-shade and needs regular to moderate water depending on the amount of light it gets - more light needs more water. It is hardy from USDA zone 9-11.

Annickia sp. is easy to grow and needs pruning only to shape the plant. You can plant in the ground or in a pot, but in cold regions, a pot is a better option for which the soil should with a good drainable medium such as soil-less compost or peat moss. The soil mixture should contain perlite or construction sand. Place it in a warm place if possible, preferably with sunlight and protect it from very cold temperatures and frost. In late winter or in its second year, fertilize the plant as needed with balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 mix or an organic fertilizer.

In addition to its ornamental merits, the plant is used for several ethnomedical applications in African traditional treatments. The stem bark is collected and used to treat various ailments such as rheumatism, boils, and skin problems. The wood of the species is also occasionally used for people in need of firewood.