Common Corkwood tree

Afrikaans name: Kanniedood

Bark of the Common Corkwood

Photo © Steven Herbert

Commiphora pyracanthoides

The Common Corkwood is a smallish tree that grows to a height of 5 to 6 metres. The trunk of the tree shows paper-like strips of bark which peel off. The leaves are bluish-green.

The flowers of the Common Corkwood are small. The fruit is small and berry-like and it goes reddish-brown when ripe.

The Common Corkwood prefers hotter areas with sell-drained sandy soil.

The gum given off by this tree can be boiled and then used as a soap for washing clothes. Some people use the resin as a hair straightener.

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References and further reading

Everyone's Guide to Trees of South Africa - Author: Keith, Paul and Meg Coates Palgrave - Year Published: 1989 - Page: 46

Sappi Tree Spotting: Lowveld - Author: Jacana - Year Published: 1997 - Page: 148

The Complete Field Guide to Trees of Natal, Zululand and Transkei - Author: Elsa Pooley - Year Published: 1994 - Page: 194

Trees of Southern Africa - 3rd edition - Author: Keith Coates Palgrave - Year Published: 2002 - Page: 438