Cussonia natalensis stems

The stem of Cussonia natalensis may become 60 cm in diameter, branching much, sometimes from low down. It has grey to brownish bark, still fairly smooth on the comparatively young branches in the photo. Old stems have corky bark that becomes deeply fissured in rectangular pieces.

C. natalensis grows quickly and is easily cultivated from seed. It grows to a good size for medium to bigger gardens, especially those receiving average precipitation. Birds are attracted by the fruit. The tree is sometimes seen in containers and good as a bonsai. Although frost sensitive, a species to consider (Coates Palgrave, 2002; Pooley, 1993; Schmidt, et al, 2002).