Mundu

Mundulea sericea is a species of tree that is native to southern Africa. It is also commonly known as the cork bush, silver bush, or silk bush. The tree typically grows to a height of 3-6 meters, with a rounded or spreading crown and a short trunk that can reach up to 30 cm in diameter.

The cork bush is known for its distinctive gray-green foliage, which is covered in fine hairs that give it a silvery sheen. The leaves are compound, with 5-7 leaflets that are oval-shaped and pointed at the tips. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are greenish-white in color and appear in late winter or early spring. The fruit is a flat, oval-shaped pod that contains small, brownish-black seeds.

The cork bush is adapted to dry and arid conditions, and is often found in savannah and scrubland habitats. It is also commonly grown as an ornamental tree for its attractive foliage and drought tolerance. The tree is used for a variety of traditional medicinal purposes by indigenous people in southern Africa, including as a treatment for fever, coughs, and sore throats. The bark and leaves of the tree have also been used to make a type of tea.

In addition to its medicinal uses, the cork bush is also used for erosion control, as it has a deep taproot that helps to stabilize soil in arid regions. The tree is also used as a source of firewood and charcoal, and the pods are used as a fodder for livestock.