Cape Chestnut

One of the best things about our building is this incredible tree outside. This lovely specimen is a Cape Chestnut, one of three in downtown Fallbrook, it is always the last of the three to grace us with its gorgeous pink flowers and light aromatic bouquet. Trees don't get much prettier.

You don't see a lot of Cape Chestnuts around. We had one on Mt. Helix when I was a young boy and my sister Barbara was highly allergic to it. When it is in high season, as it is today, people will often knock on my door and ask me to identify it.

The Cape Chestnut is actually a member of the citrus family Rutaceae and has its origins in africa. Calodendrum capense is found on the eastern side of the african continent, stretching as far south as Capetown, S.A.  and as far north as Kenya.

This tree is used in Africa for its rich oil called Yangu, high in antioxidants and amino acids and containing an inherent sunscreen, it is used to make skin care products.

It was named by English explorer William Burchell (1782-1863), who in 1819, thought that this south and tropical african tree resembled the chestnut tree of his native homeland.

The tree likes warm temperatures and full sun. I tip my cap to the far sighted individual who planted it on Main Avenue. Next time you are in the area, swing by and take a look.