Majidea zanguebarica
Syn. Harpullia zanguebarica
Pearls of Zanzibar • Zanzibar pearl tree • árvore de veludo
The seed is a fluffy and beautiful pearl
Names: Pearls of Zanzibar, velvet pearl, Zanzibar, pearls of velvet, bead tree, black pearl tree, Mgambo, mambo tree, velvet pearl tree, árvore mgambo, árvore pérola preto ou da semente da árvore de veludo, …
FAMILY
SAPINDACEAE
ETYMOLOGY
The origin of the name Majidea is uncertain. " Zanguebarica means Zanzibar, the provenance.
ORIGIN
Zanzibar (Indian Ocean).
HABITAT
Dry forests (Alt. 0-200m).
DESCRIPTION
Tropical tree up to 5m high , characterized by its exceptional fructification in bluish colors with silver reflections, on a fushia pink background. Its bark is ashy and its leaves have 5 to 10 leaflets.
It has been cultivated for ornament in Guadeloupe since 1980-1985.
It flowers from September to March and from May to June.
MULTIPLICATION
Seeds.
CULTURE AND MAINTENANCE
Easy to grow, it tolerates all soils and is drought tolerant but fears frost. Bring it in for winter and it will flower every year.
USES
ORNAMENTAL USE
Very beautiful shrub. Can be planted in isolated subject, in pot, in bonsai or in hedges.
OTHER USES
It is cultivated for ornament, and for its fluffy seeds which are an essential element in the creation of seed jewellery.