Latin name

Maytens heterophylia  Hetero (variable) phyla (leaves) refers to its habit of producing leaves and spines in variable forms, which makes it difficult to identify.

Common name

Common Spike Thorn

Location

Widely spread and tolerant of variable habitats

Description

Single stemmed tree with low branches, angular untidy outline.

Bark – dark brown forming regular protruding blocks.

Leaves – either single or in tufts on shortened branches.  Vary from either toothed or smooth edged.  Variable greyish-green and wider near the tip.

Spines – long straight and of variable length.  Leaves can appear on the spines, they are modified branches.  Spines can be totally absent from some branches.

Flowers – bears white star-shaped clusters on thick twigs.  Bloom from February to June.  Strongly scented.  Smells of decayed meat, attracts flies and beetles.

Fruits – small reddish-brown, borne in clusters.  May- June.

Edible

Yes but not inviting.  Leaves enjoyed by browsers.

Medicinal

Bark used for dysentery

Roots and spines for colds and coughs

Combined parts of the tree were used for snake-bite but not recipes available.

Wood

Hard, fined grained and varies from reddish to white, used for spoons, stools and knobkerries.

Garden uses

Not recommended due to its ability to attract flies and beetles.