The Shepherd Tree (Boscia albitrunca), a resilient species native to Southern Africa, is also known as Witgat and Motlopi. Culturally and ecologically important, it’s often called the “Tree of Life” for providing sustenance and shelter in harsh environments.
Identification and Characteristics
The Shepherd Tree grows 5 to 7 meters tall. Its smooth, pale grey to white trunk is its most recognizable feature, referenced by its species name “albitrunca.” The crown is dense and rounded, sometimes umbrella-like due to browsing.
Its evergreen, leathery, grey-green leaves are arranged in clusters of two to four on short spur branches. Oblong or oblanceolate, these leaves measure 20-50 mm long and 6-25 mm wide, with a distinct midrib. Fragrant, yellowish-green flowers, lacking petals but featuring 6-15 stamens, emerge in clusters from July to November. Small, round, yellowish fruits (10-15 mm in diameter) with brittle skin and whitish flesh follow.
Natural Habitat and Growth
The Shepherd Tree is widely distributed across drier parts of Southern Africa, including Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Eswatini, Zambia, and Mozambique. It thrives in arid and semi-arid environments like the Kalahari, bushveld, and lowveld. It prefers sandy, loamy, and calcrete soils, adapting to nutrient-poor conditions.
A defining characteristic is its exceptionally deep root system, extending up to 68 meters to access underground water. This adaptation contributes to its drought resistance, enabling mature specimens to survive prolonged dry periods. The tree remains evergreen even during dry seasons, providing shade in hot climates.
Diverse Uses of Shepherd Tree
The Shepherd Tree has been a versatile resource for centuries, earning its “Tree of Life” moniker due to its extensive uses. Its fruits are eaten raw or cooked, and flower buds can substitute for capers in pickles. Processed roots are traditionally used to make porridge, a coffee substitute, or beer.
Beyond food, the tree offers medicinal applications in traditional practices. A cold infusion from the leaves treats inflamed eyes in humans and cattle. Root extracts are traditionally applied for ailments like hemorrhoids. The wood, though not typically used for construction, is fashioned into household items like spoons, dishes, tables, and chairs.
Cultivation and Care
Cultivating the Shepherd Tree is possible, though it has a slow growth rate, particularly in initial stages. Seedlings expend energy establishing their deep taproot before substantial above-ground growth. Propagation is achieved through seeds or cuttings; fresh seeds are generally preferred due to short viability.
It prefers well-drained, sandy soils and tolerates nutrient-poor conditions. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering, mirroring its natural arid habitat. While not a common garden plant, its hardiness and drought resistance make it suitable for landscapes in appropriate climates.
Nutritional and Safety Information
The leaves and bark contain nutrients, including proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Its leaves are a source of crude protein and high in Vitamin A. The fruits are consumed by animals and humans, particularly during scarcity, offering a natural food source.
While many parts are consumed, some traditional uses require specific preparation. For example, roots can be eaten raw or cooked, sometimes concentrated into a syrup. However, consuming tea or coffee from the bark, fruits, or leaves has been reported to cause severe nausea and gastrointestinal issues, especially for those unaccustomed to it. It is important to confirm identification and consult with local experts or traditional knowledge holders before consuming any part of the Shepherd Tree.