Leadwood tree
Afrikaans name: Loodhout

Leadwood tree
Photo © Steven Herbert
Combretum imberbe
The Leadwood tree is found from KwaZulu-Natal to Tanzania. This tree enjoys a protected status in South Africa.
It can reach a height of 20 metres. It is estimated that a Leadwood tree can live for 1000 years.
The wood is used for making fine furniture as well as railway sleepers.
The name of the Leadwood tree refers to the heavy weight of the wood.

Leaves of the Leadwood tree
Photo © Steven Herbert
References and further reading
A site-by-site guide to trees in the Kruger National Park - Author: Marissa Greeff - Year Published: 2017 - Page: 168Field Guide to the Trees of the Kruger National Park - Author: Piet van Wyk - Year Published: 2008 - Page: 173
Kruger - Portrait of a National Park - Author: David Paynter with Wilf Nussey - Year Published: 1986 - Page: 28
Pocket Guide - Trees of Southern Africa - Author: Piet van Wyk - Year Published: 2013 - Page: 100
Sappi Tree Spotting: Lowveld - Author: Jacana - Year Published: 1997 - Page: 100