Kiggelaria africana (also known as the Wild peach or umKokoko) is a large, robust, low-branching African tree. Despite its common name, it is not related to the more familiar fruit-producing Peach tree (Prunus persica) although the leaves do superficially look similar.
The Wild Peach is a very tough, hardy and fast-growing tree. It prefers a sunny position (but tolerates shade) and a moderate amount of water. It also survives frost. It naturally
forms a large shade tree with a gentle, non-invasive root system, but also makes a good windbreak or hedge. If a conventional "tree shape" is required, then the shoots that grow from the tree's lower trunk should be removed. A multitude of birds enjoy the tiny red fruits and will consequently be attracted to this tree, as are Acraea horta butterflies (Their caterpillars sometimes eat the tree bare, but this is part of a natural process and the Kiggelaria trees always rapidly regrow their foliage). |