Tower of strength

The Leadwood tree (Combretum Imberbe) is a protected tree in SA. Its wood is extremely hard, and the skeletons of dead leadwoods can remain standing for decades；as termites and insects cannot easily penetrate the wood.

Before the introduction of metals, the wood was used to fashion blades for hoes. The ash can be used as a toothpaste, and even as a substitute for whitewash.

These trees are estimated to live 1000+ years (carbon dating of larger specimens). A truly remarkable pillar of strength.