About
Henkel’s Yellowwood (Podocarpus henkelii) is a striking conifer endemic to the mistbelt forests of South Africa’s Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. This evergreen tree is easily recognised by its gracefully drooping, dark blue-green leaves and tall, straight trunk, often reaching heights of 20 to 30 metres. It is one of South Africa’s tallest indigenous conifers and has long been valued both ecologically and ornamentally.
Henkel’s Yellowwood is typically found on steep, south-facing slopes in moist, cool Afromontane forests. These mistbelt forests are home to a unique assemblage of Afrotemperate flora. P. henkelii is a characteristic species of these ecosystems, where it grows in moist, well-drained soils under a cool, humid climate. However, its slow growth and long lifespan make it particularly sensitive to habitat degradation, which continues to threaten much of its native range.
Culturally significant and legally protected in South Africa, P. henkelii is threatened by habitat degradation, invasive species, and unsustainable harvesting. Its seeds, which resemble fleshy fruits, are dispersed by birds, but regeneration is hindered by forest fragmentation.
- Order: Pinales
- Family: Podocarpaceae
- Trend: decreasing
- Size: up to 30m
EDGE Score
Distribution
P. henkelii, is native to parts of southern and eastern Africa, including South Africa, Malawi, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe. In South Africa, the largest concentrations are found between Mt. Ayliff, Kokstad, and Harding. The species occurs at elevations ranging from 1,300 to 2,000 meters above sea level. Its populations are extremely fragmented, with occurrences in five widely separated locations.
Habitat and Ecology
Henkel’s Yellowwood is commonly found in the Afro-montane forests of the Drakensberg mountains and other high, moist, evergreen, and deciduous inland forests. The species prefers deep, moist soils and is adapted to environments with high humidity and consistent rainfall. Its presence contributes to the structural diversity and ecological stability of the forests it inhabits.