Cassia abbreviata subsp. beareana where flat earth looks its best

Cassia abbreviata subsp. beareana is the only indigenous Cassia in South Africa. (Several other local species that earlier had that generic name are now called Senna. The sennas have similar flowers but leaves with glands on their rachises or leaf axes.)

Poor representation does not deter this easily recognised tree, riddled with fruity exclamation marks, from radiating a magnificent presence in the Lowveld bushveld. Noticed by almost all who visit, and well-known to residents, the tree earned the notable name, Monêpênêpê from the Pedi or North Sotho people of the region. What they meant by it is unknown, but melodious bears mention.

The tannins contained in the tree are used in traditional medicine and tanning (Coates Palgrave, 2002; Schmidt, et al, 2002; Leistner, (Ed.), 2000; Van Wyk and Van Wyk, 1997; Venter and Venter, 1996; iNaturalist).