Smooth tinderwood

Smooth tinderwood (Clerodendrum glabrum): This plant only occurs in the far north of the country around Epupa Falls and a few other scattered northern locations. It is either an evergreen or semi-deciduous shrub or tree that can grow as high as 6m. Its drooping crown and grey bark, blackening with age occur in dry woodlands of Kalahari sands.

The leaves are dark green, smooth and with velvety uppers and pale green below. White flowers can be tinged with pink and the tubular petals bend backwards with age. Flower displays can be seen from December to March. The berries of the fruit are yellow or whitish when mature, staying on the tree for months when dry.

The leaves and young shoots can be used for de-worming animals and for the treatment of colic, coughs and colds. The strong smell of crushed leaves make an ideal insect repellent. Roots are a considered to be a reliable snakebite remedy.