Widdringtonia wallichii

Widdringtonia wallichii, previously Widdringtonia cedarbergensis, the Clanwilliam cedar, is a rare tree typically growing to heights around 6 m, although some specimens 20 m tall in remote spots were known; some may still exist.

The tiny leaves of the Clanwilliam cedar are needle-like when young and spirally arranged on the stems. As they mature, the leaves become scale-like and ovate, tightly pressed against the stems.

The species distribution is in parts of the Cederberg in the northwest of the Western Cape. The tree is critically endangered due to frequent fires and other problems.

The habitat is rocky fynbos predominantly on quartzitic sandstones.

Overused as timber in the past and ravaged by veld fires, protection and planting programmes bring a welcome turnaround in the fortunes of this valued endemic. The sought after aromatic wood is light yellow to whitish, borer free and works well (Coates Palgrave, 2002; http://redlist.sanbi.org).