Family APIACEAE
Genus Heteromorpha
Species trifoliata
Variegata abyssinica
SA Plant Number 568
Basionym Heteromorpha trifoliata abyssinica

Heteromorpha trifoliata subsp. abyssinica is a slender, very hardy, deciduous, drought resistant, fast growing tree. An attractive feature of this tree is its glossy, waxy, coppery coloured, peeling bark.

The grey-green leaves which turn yellow and red in autumn smell of parsley when crushed, hence the common name.

The graceful heads of small, yellowish flowers are borne from January to April and attract many insects which in turn attract birds.

All parts of the tree are aromatic. Ideal tree for a small garden, especially to attract birds and other wildlife.

This tree is considered to bring good luck and is used for a variety of medicinal and magical purposes.

Size 2 to 7m

Wildlife garden plant: The flowers attract many insects and in turn attract insectivorous birds to the garden.

Aromatic: All parts of the tree are aromatic

Limpopo, North West, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu Natal, Free State, Northern Cape, Eastern Cape, Western Cape

Biome:Forest

Natural Habitat Forest margins, wooded ravines, hillsides and riverine forest.

Growth Rate: Fast Growing, Evergreen or Deciduous: Deciduous , Hardiness - Frost: Frost Hardy, Plant Type: Tree - Medium, Plant Type: Tree - Small, Position: Semi-shade, Position: Sun - Full, Soil: Well-drained, Garden Uses: Bird Friendly, Garden Uses: Local to Gauteng, Garden Uses: Small Gardens, Hardiness - Drought: Drought Resistant, Flower colour: Yellow shades, Garden type: Forest Garden, Garden type: Rocky outcrop and Koppie Gardens, Garden type: Wildlife Garden,

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