Kaffir Boom

Did you know

• The Kaffir Boom is the official tree of the city of Los Angeles, California, where it was planted along many streets in the early 20th century.
• Its bright red flowers bloom on bare branches before the leaves emerge, creating a striking scarlet canopy.
• Sunbirds are the primary pollinators of this tree, drawn to its nectar-rich tubular flowers.
• The seeds are known as 'lucky beans' in South Africa and are traditionally used in jewelry and as good-luck charms.
• The soft, lightweight wood of the tree was historically carved into fishing floats by coastal communities.

Color meanings

Uses

• ornamental shade tree
• street planting
• traditional crafts
• wildlife habitat