Ehretia rigida, commonly known as Puzzle Bush, is a deciduous small tree or large shrub native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, bushveld, and rocky outcrops in eastern South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. It typically grows up to 16 feet (5 meters) tall and is characterized by its rigid, interlocking branches that give it a ’puzzled’ appearance. The leaves are leathery, rough, and dark green, providing a striking contrast to the fragrant lilac to white flowers that bloom in early spring. The flowers are followed by small fruits that turn from green to black as they mature, attracting birds and other wildlife.

The Puzzle Bush is valued for its hardiness and adaptability to different soil types, making it a suitable choice for gardens in arid regions. It requires minimal maintenance once established and can tolerate drought, which is beneficial for water-wise landscaping. In cultivation, it is used for screening, as a feature plant in rockeries, and for its medicinal properties. Ehretia rigida prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained soils. While it is generally pest-free, it can occasionally suffer from root rot if overwatered.CC BY-SA 4.0