About Brachylaena discolor var. rotundata (S.Moore) Beentje
This variety, Brachylaena discolor var. rotundata, grows as a shrub or tree generally reaching around 10 meters tall, though it can occasionally grow to 27 to 29 meters in height. New branches are hairy, and range in color from brown to purple-tinged. Its leaves are oval or oblong, typically growing up to 12 centimeters long. Leaf margins can be smooth, toothed, or spine-toothed. Most leaves are hairless, with a shiny dull green upper surface and a grayish hairy lower surface. Flowers grow in large panicles at branch ends, and in shorter panicles in leaf axils. This plant is dioecious, and its flower heads resemble plump shaving brushes. Male plants produce flower heads with short phyllaries and a single layer of pappus hairs, while female flower heads have longer phyllaries and multiple layers of pappus hairs. It grows in coastal forests, along mangrove edges, and alongside rivers. Its flowers produce abundant nectar that attracts both insects and birds, and it is considered a good honey plant. Antelope species including nyala, bushbuck, and duikers may browse its leaves. It has become naturalized in Queensland, where it is classified as a potential weed. Its strong yellow wood has been used for a wide range of purposes, including boat construction, fencing, housing and roofing, axles, tools, and knobkierries. It is considered a valuable wood for carving. Ash from this plant has been used in soap production. Both native African communities and European settlers used this plant medicinally, to treat kidney conditions, diabetes, gastrointestinal bleeding, intestinal parasites, and chest pain. It is also cultivated as an ornamental plant for gardens and landscaping. It tolerates coastal conditions, and can be used to stabilize sand dunes.
