Cunonia capensis

Cunonia capensis Details

Commonly known as the Butter Knife Tree, this is a fast-growing tree that features lovely foliage and interesting flowers. It has large and glossy, dark green leaves with new foliage emerging a bronze-red colour. The buds which house the new growth are pressed together in a spoon-like shape, hence its common name. It produces sprays of dense, fragrant, cream-coloured flowers in summer which attract butterflies and honey bees. This evergreen typically grows to 4 m tall and 3 m wide, and can be trimmed as necessary. It grows best when planted in full sun or partial shade on a well-drained, sheltered site. Good summer moisture is essential and it will tolerate moderate frost. The Butter Knife Tree is commonly included in mixed plantings, grown as a specimen, or planted as a backdrop for smaller plants. This is a lovely and very rewarding plant.