Cape Saffron
(Cassine peragua)
Cape Saffron (Cassine peragua)
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douglaseustonbrown
CC BY-SA 4.0
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douglaseustonbrown
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CC BY-SA 4.0
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Photo by: douglaseustonbrown | License Type: CC BY-SA 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ | Rights Holder: douglaseustonbrown | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2023-05-04T12:40:39-07:00 |

























Estimated Native Range
Summary
Cassine peragua, commonly known as Cape Saffron or Christmas Berry, is an evergreen tree native to South Africa. It typically grows at a moderate rate to a height of 10-20 feet (3-6 meters) and a width of 8-15 feet (2.4-4.6 meters). The tree has a dense, rounded to spreading canopy with glossy, leathery leaves that provide year-round interest. Its small, fragrant white flowers bloom in the spring and summer, followed by red berries that persist into winter, adding ornamental value.
Cape Saffron is appreciated for its drought tolerance once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping. It is also used for hedges, screens, and as a specimen plant in residential landscapes. This species prefers full sun to part shade and thrives in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, provided they offer medium to fast drainage. While it requires medium amounts of water, it can tolerate periods of drought. Gardeners should be aware that Cassine peragua can become invasive outside its native range, so it is essential to consult local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0
Cape Saffron is appreciated for its drought tolerance once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping. It is also used for hedges, screens, and as a specimen plant in residential landscapes. This species prefers full sun to part shade and thrives in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, provided they offer medium to fast drainage. While it requires medium amounts of water, it can tolerate periods of drought. Gardeners should be aware that Cassine peragua can become invasive outside its native range, so it is essential to consult local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrubs, Trees
- Height: 10-20 feet
- Width: 8-15 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: White
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Fast, Medium
Common Uses
Bird Garden, Border Plant, Low Maintenance
Natural Habitat
Coastal forests, thickets, and scrublands of the tropical and subtropical Americas, including the Caribbean
Other Names
Common Names: Christmas Berry , Bahama Cassine
Scientific Names: Cassine peragua , Cassine capensis , Cassine kraussiana
GBIF Accepted Name: