Bolusanthus speciosus

A semi-deciduous medium tree with shrub-like characteristics that originates from South Africa. The trunk tends to fork, and it is brown-gray. The tree’s texture is significantly grooved The tree’s leaves are spirally arranged on the branches, which tend to be somewhat weeping. The tree’s canopy is not dense and does not provide heavy shade, so plants beneath can grow.

The tree flowers in the spring with weeping clusters of spectacular and fragrant purple-blue flowers. The tree’s flowers are similar to other flowers from the same family, like Lathyrus odoratus. These flowers are reminiscent of the flowers of the wisteria plant, which gives the tree its nickname. The flowers are replaced by brown pods. The tree is very sensitive to cold and will not survive frost conditions, but it is very well-suited to warmer parts of the country. It is resistant to air pollution. B. speciosus prefers auxiliary watering until it reaches adulthood, but it requires minimal watering and can even withstand drought conditions.

The tree’s roots are not invasive, so it can be planted by buildings and paved areas. Despite the fact that it has fruit, these pods do not attract birds or make the ground slippery. Due to its impressive flowers and pleasant properties, B. speciosus is highly recommended as a center of attraction and interest in gardens and would also be great as a street tree. We feel that in Israel it is being somewhat missed out on due to it being slightly more expensive than other trees, but on the other hand it is impressive and water efficient.

The tree’s wood is especially strong and resistant to termites and other pests; as a result, it is very sought after for use in the furniture industry, as well as for making poles. Some parts of the tree are also used in folk medicine.