Greyia sutherlandii new branchlet on an old stem

A new Greyia sutherlandii branch may sprout on a big stem, juxtaposing the age extremes in visible tree parts. The rough fissuring and flaking mixes longitudinal and haphazard shapes in the old bark that may turn much darker than in picture, sometimes nearly black. The contrasting softness of the young leaves and their petioles conveys the message of this weathered old stem being very much alive.

The uneven bark presents many nooks and crannies for insects and other small beasties to hide and do private stuff. Lodging nearby increases the chances of seasonal pollination service agreements with the tree (Pooley, et al, 2025; Coates Palgrave, 2002; Schmidt, et al, 2002; Pooley, 1993; iNaturalist).