Colophospermum

Colophospermum is a genus of flowering plants in the legume family Fabaceae. It is a monotypic genus, represented by the single species Colophospermum mopane, commonly known as mopane or mopani.

Description

Mopane is a deciduous tree that typically grows to several tens of meters in height. It has coarse, grey-brown bark and a canopy of compound leaves. The tree bears flat, brown pods typical of legumes, containing several seeds. Its wood is known for being extremely dense and hard, contributing to its use in timber and heavy construction.

Distribution and habitat

Colophospermum mopane is native to southern Africa, with a distribution spanning Angola, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. It is a dominant component of savanna woodlands in the Mopane belt and tends to grow on well-drained soils in hot, semi-arid climates.

Ecology and uses

An important ecological feature is its relationship with the mopane worm (Gonimbrasia belina), whose caterpillars feed on Mopane leaves and are a traditional protein source in several regions. The wood is highly valued for its density and durability, used in furniture, flooring, fencing, and as fuel; it is also prized for tool handles and construction uses. Leaves can serve as fodder for livestock in some local practices.

Taxonomy

Colophospermum mopane belongs to the subfamily Detarioideae within Fabaceae. The genus Colophospermum is currently considered monotypic, containing only this species. The mopane tree has a broad, stable distribution in southern Africa and is not generally regarded as threatened.