About Myrsine melanophloeos (L.) R.Br.
Myrsine melanophloeos (L.) R.Br. is a dense evergreen tree. Its leaves, stalks, and berries often carry a purple or maroon color. This species is typically dioecious, meaning male and female flowers grow on separate individual trees. Birds are attracted to its tiny, dark purple berries. Its specific epithet 'melanophloeos' translates to 'black bark'; the name comes from an error where this species was mistakenly identified as Swartbas, Diospyros whyteana. This stately tree has a natural distribution ranging from Cape Town in the south to Ethiopia and Nigeria in the north. In the Eastern Cape, it can sometimes be found growing near its smaller relative, the coastal species Myrsine gilliana. Myrsine melanophloeos is cultivated as an ornamental tree and screening shrub for gardens, and is also grown as a potted bonsai specimen. It is a hardy species that grows well in windy areas and near the coast. Once established, it has moderate drought tolerance and requires very little maintenance. This plant produces root suckers that grow into new trees over time, so it is not recommended to plant it next to paving. This species (previously classified under the genus Rapanea) grows easily from seed. Its wood is strong, high-quality, and can be used to make furniture and violins.
