Cape chestnut - Calodendrum capense

Description and Uses

Calodendrum capense (Cape chestnut) is a tropical tree from East Africa. It is mainly grown for its oil crops (long shelflife), but also

can be produced. The crop is harvested by ground gathering.

. Medical uses include;

The contains ( - ). After 110 years the tree can be totally removed as it reached its commercial and ecological goal. Calodendrum capense has a lifespan of 150 years.

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Environmental limitations

The tree is 20 meters tall. It is very slow growing and tolerates not less light than full sun. Calodendrum capense has a shallow root-system and forms symbiotic relations

(endo-mycorrhiza). It is not able to fix nitrogen.

Calodendrum capense thrives in an altitude of 200 to 2200 meters above sea-level (tropical). The minimum temperature is 0°C and optimally between 10 - 25°C. The optimal rainfall is 1550 mm/year. Without irrigation the annual rainfall should be between 800 - 1500 mm (L/m²). The optimal soil-pH is between 6.0 - 7.0 in a soil texture of loam.

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Pests and Diseases

and

diseases.

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Seed Propagation

Seeds are orthodox and can be stored for 2 months. There are approximative 19000 seeds/kg. Unfortunately propagation instruction is missing.

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