Snuff-box Tree

The Snuff-box Tree (Oncoba spinosa) is also called the African Dogrose and can reach up to 5 to 10m in riverine forest or along streams in open woodland. They grow in the northern regions of the Okavango Delta and the far eastern Zambezi Region (formerly the Caprivi Strip). The leaves are a shiny dark-green colour, the foliage coppery pink and the large, fragrant white flowers surround fluffy yellow stamens.

The edible, but unpleasant tasting fruits grow in a hard shell which can be used to make rattles for dancers and snuff-boxes (hence the common name). Medicinal illnesses such as bladder complaints and dysentery can be treated.

Butterflies and insects are attracted to the flowers. This plant is semi-frost hardy, requires plenty of sunshine and medium watering. Flowering time is in the spring and summer.