Description
Azanza garckeana can be found from Sudan in the north, to Mpumalanga in the south, and is found growing in open woodland and bushveld.
It is a small shrub or semi-deciduous tree, 3–10m tall, with a roundish crown. The young branches have soft shaggy hairs, becoming smoother and grey to brown, as they age; the older branches and stems have rough, longitudinally cracked bark.
It’s non-aggressive root system, large leaves and crinkled yellow flowers with maroon or red centres, which appear from December to May, make it a beautiful shade tree which has the added bonus of being drought resistant.
Skilled artisans use it to make ropes, baskets and ties for firewood.
The fruit has a hard 5-lobed shell that splits apart to become a gelatinous texture and then a pulp to chew but not ingest. It has a slight mango flavour when yellow and ripe. Unripe fruit has a bitter taste. The fruits are present from February to September.
Position
This tree requires full sun for optimum growth and fruiting. Although it is drought resistant, it also does very well during the rainy season and can also withstand mild frost.
Soil Type
A balanced mix of sand, silt and clay known as loamy soil is ideal. A well draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH between 5.0 and 7.0.
Add a bag of acid compost. Dig a hole about 60 x 60 cms and enrich it with a bag of our Volcanic rock dust is sufficient to create an optimal environment. This deep soil prep is necessary for good root growth and to ensure the soil drains well.
Water
This drought resistant tree prefers a summer rainfall regions. Water moderately in the garden during hot and dry spells.
Pruning
Cut back any dry and dead branches during the winter season.
Fertilising
Apply fertiliser sparingly during the growing season to encourage healthy growth. Apply 1 teaspoon every 4-5 months of our slow-release nitrogen-rich Berry/All plant Fertiliser. The plant roots will absorb what they need.
Mulching
Keep the soil mulched with Pine Bark Mulch to retain moisture, protect the plant’s roots from UV damage, and keep weeds at bay.
Pests & Diseases
Spraying regularly with our Agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control ) will assist with the prevention of pests.
Harvesting
Harvesting is anytime from February to September in ideal conditions. Pick when the fruit colour changes from green to yellow.
