Curtisia dentata (commonly known as the Assegai tree or Cape lancewood, , , ) is a flowering tree from Southern Africa. It is the sole species in genus Curtisia, which was originally classed as a type of "dogwood" (Cornaceae), but is now placed in its own unique family Curtisiaceae.

It is increasingly popular as an ornamental tree for gardens, with dark glossy foliage and sprays of pure white berries. The bark of this tree is a very popular component of traditional African medicine, leading to overexploitation and a decline in the species in some areas of South Africa. The tree is protected in South Africa.

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File:Curtisia dentata - Assegai tree - Table Mountain 6.JPG|A medium-sized specimen growing in Cape Town.

File:Curtisia dentata - Assegai tree - hedge screen 8.JPG|Curtisia dentata makes a good hedge or screen.

File:Curtisia dentata - 2.JPG|The multi-coloured foliage.

File:Curtisia dentata - Assegai tree - foliage 4.jpg|Detail of leaves.

File:Curtisia dentata foliage and berries - SA.jpg|The distinctive white berries

File:Curtisia dentata seeds, by Omar Hoftun.jpg|Curtisia dentata seeds.

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See also

  • List of Southern African indigenous trees

References

  • Curtisia dentata at PlantZAfrica.com