Capparace The caper family
Maerua schinzii
Photos taken in Kuisebpass and Brandberg Found in: G & R Common names: English: Ringwood tree, bead maerua German: Lorbeerbaum, knotenfruchtbaum
Afrikaans: Herero:
Kringboom, lammerdrol Etengu, omutengu
Distribution: This tree is widely distributed in the north, and all along the eastern parts of the Namib Desert, all the way south to Orange River. Identification: Maerua schinzii is a many-stemmed climbing shrub or a tree that can reach up to 7 m in height, but is fairly often found leaning against or climbing into an acacia tree. The smooth bark is grayish and the oval, oblong or egg-shaped leaves are simple and alternate and when young soft and velvety. Its several flowers open from velvety green buds in September/October and display long and light stamens that give off a sweet pleasant smell. The characteristic fruits consist of long drooping beanlike pods that contract after each seed, resembling a beaded necklace. Ecology: This tree occurs mainly on plains, along dry rivers and on hill slopes. It flowers from September to December, with a peak in October. The leaves are evergreen, and new leaves develop from October to January. The tree is very nutritious and a favorite browse for both livestock and game, as well as ostriches. Young trees often need help protection from “nursery plant� - adult plants that shelters the young trees until they are large enough to withstand the browsing pressure. It is a protected species in Namibia. Uses: The body can be washed with a decoction of the leaves to treat skin disorders and acne and in cases of fever or weakness. The Topnaar use a decoction of the leaves instead of soap to wash themselves. The body is also washed with this decoction when an improvement in the mood is needed. Pounded leaves are sniffed by the Ovambos to relieve headaches. The Bushmen use the root as a tonic, by chewing it, or wearing it around the neck as an amulet. References: van den Eyden V et al. (1992), Berry C (2000), Coates Palgrave K (2002), Curtis B and Mannheimer C (2005) and Henschel J et al (2006) Photos by: Joh Henschel