Oldwood, whose scientific name is Leucosidea sericea, is a special evergreen tree or large shrub that grows in the highlands of southern Africa. It is unique because it’s the only one of its kind! The name “oldwood” refers to gnarled appearance from the stringy bark giving the tree an ancient appearance. The name “Leucosidea” means “shiny white,” which describes how the leaves sparkle in the sun, and “sericea” means “silky,” referring to the soft hairs on the leaves and buds.
A Tough Survivor
Because of the similarity in its flower structure, Oldwood belongs to the rose family. It can grow up to 7 meters tall and 5 meters wide. Sometimes it’s a small tree, and other times it’s more like a bush. The bark is rough and reddish-brown, but when it peels away, it shows a smooth, light brown layer underneath. The leaves are dark green on top and lighter green underneath, with deep veins and jagged edges. If you crush the leaves, they have a strong, herby smell.
This tree is really tough! It can survive at heights as high as 1,800 meters, where it’s too cold, dry, and high for most other trees. You’ll often find Oldwood in open grasslands, along riverbanks, and on rocky hillsides, usually in places that are a bit damp with deep, sandy, or rocky soil.
Uses and Benefits
Oldwood is useful for both people and animals. In some mountain areas, if you see it growing near streams, it means the water is good for trout fishing, which is why it’s sometimes called “Troutwood.” The wood is great for making long-lasting fence posts and is often used as firewood because it burns slowly and makes a lot of smoke. In the highlands of Lesotho, Oldwood is often the only available fuel.
People, especially the Zulu, use a paste made from crushed Oldwood leaves to treat eye problems. The leaves are also used in traditional medicine to get rid of worms and to help stop bleeding. Scientists have found that Oldwood has many health benefits, like fighting bacteria and fungi and reducing inflammation.
A Resilient Plant
Oldwood is often found growing in thick groups, especially in areas where the land has been unburnt. Its presence can be a sign that the land hasn’t been managed well. Even though it’s tough, Oldwood can sometimes be a problem for farmers because it grows so thickly. However, this tree is incredibly resilient. Even after a wildfire, it can grow back, showing just how strong it really is in the wild.