Ant tree, Triplaris americana
This tree grows up to 8-10m high with a straight, smooth, grey trunk. The leaves are poisonous and are bright green and smooth, sometimes brownish-velvety beneath along the midrib and veins.
Small male and female flowers occur in large clusters on separate trees from April to May. Female flowers are bright pink / red whereas male flowers are inconspicuous and there are often more female trees than male. Seeds are shiny and brown and are enclosed in pinkish-brown, 3-winged wind- dispersed fruit. Each fruit encloses a single seed and on germination results in an individual seedling.
The tree has a mutualistic relationship with ants which live in the bark, flowers and leaves, feeding on substances produced by the tree and defending it against invaders.
Originally introduced in the 1970’s as an ornamental species, the Ant tree is native to Central and South America and is classified as NEMBA – Category 1ain KwaZulu-Natal, which means it must be removed. It produces massive quantities of wind-dispersed seeds so it has the potential to spread rapidly. Seedlings develop readily and quickly colonise the habitat, replacing local species.
To eradicate this tree: Apply a herbicide / diesel mix around the base of the trunk to a height of approx. 20cm, or cut low down and apply the herbicide mix to the freshly cut stump.
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