Euclea natalensis subsp. angustifolia leaves

The leaves of Euclea natalensis subsp. angustifolia are alternate to sub-opposite in stem position, lanceolate to elliptic in shape with tapering tips. Leaf dimensions are from 3 cm to 7 cm in length by 1 cm to 1,5 cm in width. They are leathery in texture, glossy on top and densely hairy on their under-surfaces.

The common name of bushveld hairy guarri is derived from the leaf hairiness. Against the sunlight the leaf shows translucence of its net-veining, a guarri leaf feature.

The stems shown in the photo are dark with a maroon tinge. Small, greenish-white flowers growing in leaf axils may appear on the tree all year round; male and female flowers grow on separate trees.

The edible, globose berries of up to 1 cm in diameter that follow are black when ripe (Coates Palgrave, 2002; www.plantzafrica.com).