Pepper-Bark tree (Warburgia salutaris) seedlings for distribution

The Pepper-Bark tree is an evergreen which grows between 5 and 10m tall, found in forests in Southern Africa. The name ‘salutaris’ means health giving, referencing its medicinal properties. The bark is used to treat complaints such as malaria, stomach ulcers, colds and nightmares. Cooked roots of the tree are used to treat coughs and the leaves to alleviate skin irritation. It is also used for timber, as a chilli substitute and is eaten by hippos.The inner bark has a pungent peppery smell giving the tree its English name. Crushed leaves of this tree also have a distinctive bitter taste allowing for easy identification. It is widely planted as an ornamental tree. BGCI is working with Vumba Botanical Gardens in Mutare, Zimbabwe and local communities to secure the future of this threatened tree.