Cape kafferboom
Noun: 1. A small tree native to eastern South Africa: This term refers to a specific tree species (Erythrina caffra or Erythrina latissima) known for its broad, spreading shape and semi-evergreen nature. It is characterized by bright orange-scarlet flowers and small coral-red seeds. Its wood is light and soft, historically used for purposes like fence posts or shingles.
- Noun:
- The brilliant flowers of the cape kafferboom are a common sight in coastal gardens of South Africa.
- Due to its soft wood, the cape kafferboom was traditionally used for making shingles.
- Botanical/Landscaping Context: The term is primarily used in botanical, horticultural, or regional descriptions. It is a specific common name for the tree species .
- For a drought-resistant garden with winter color, consider planting a cape kafferboom.
- Common Coral Tree: This is a more widely used and preferred English name for the same species ().
- Erythrina caffra: The formal botanical/scientific Latin name for the tree.
- Kafferboom: A shorter, related variant of the name, though "cape kafferboom" specifies the South African variety.
- Common Coral Tree: The standard synonym in English.
- South African Coral Tree: A descriptive synonym indicating its origin.
The term "kafferboom" contains an offensive racial slur derived from the word "Kaffir." Due to its deeply pejorative and hurtful history in South Africa, the use of this term is strongly discouraged and considered highly offensive. The acceptable and recommended terms are "Common Coral Tree" or the botanical name "Erythrina caffra." The explanation above is provided for dictionary accuracy and historical reference only.
- small semi-evergreen broad-spreading tree of eastern South Africa with orange-scarlet flowers and small coral-red seeds; yields a light soft wood used for fence posts or shingles