What is Olea capensis?
Q: What is Olea capensis?
A: Olea capensis is an African tree species belonging to the olive family (Oleaceae) which is also known as black ironwood.
Q: Where is Olea capensis found?
A: Olea capensis is widespread in Africa south of the Sahara. It grows from the east in Somalia, Ethiopia and Sudan, south to the tip of South Africa, and west to Cameroon, Sierra Leone and the Islands of the Gulf of Guinea, as well as Madagascar and the Comoros.
Q: In which types of environments does Olea capensis grow?
A: Olea capensis occurs in the bush, littoral scrub and evergreen forest.
Q: What is the Guinness Book of World Records say about Olea capensis?
A: The Guinness Book of World Records lists Olea capensis as the world's most dense wood, with a specific gravity of 1.49.
Q: What is Olea capensis known for?
A: Olea capensis is known for sinking in water, unlike other woods. It is also one of the world's hardest woods.
Q: What properties does the timber of Olea capensis have?
A: The timber of Olea capensis resists abrasion and is very strong. It is an excellent turnery wood, widely used for wooden items.
Q: Is Olea capensis only found in certain regions of Africa?
A: Yes, Olea capensis is only found in Africa south of the Sahara. It does not occur in any other regions of the world.
