40 – Elaeodendron croceum

Scientific name

Elaeodendron croceum (Thunb.) DC.

Common name

Saffron tree

Family

Celastraceae

Origin

South Africa

Year planted

1944

Flowering

Spring

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Saffron tree

Description

It is a large shrub, which can grow up to 10 metres high. The leaves are evergreen, serrated at the edge.

The flowers are tiny, whitish-green, and are borne in clusters (inflorescence) of up to 15 flowers. The fruits are fleshy and yellowish white.

Marimurtra’s specimens

There are two well-developed specimens in the garden: one by Linné’s pavilion   and the other on the araucaria path. The latter has a height of 7 metres and has a crown span of 6 metres. Both specimens come from seeds sent by Justin Rousset, collected in Monte Carlo (Monaco) in 1944.

Did you know that…?

Its golden-yellow wood is used to make furniture. The roots and bark of this plant are toxic to humans.

Threat level (UICN)

Main uses

Raunkiaer Life Forms