Redwing
Pterolobium stellatum
Observed on a rocky, sloped pastureland near Eldoret, Kenya. November 2012.
FLOWERS: The flowers have five, small petals, are cream-white and are
borne in spike clusters.
SHRUB: Long slender branches scramble up, through and over other plants,
the numerous recurved spines acting as grappling hooks.
LEAVES: Leaves are twice compound with numerous small leaflets.
RANGE: This native plant is widespread in eastern Africa, occurring on
slopes, flood plains and other disturbed sites.
FRUIT: The bean pods are flat and papery with the bean located at the
attachment end; the result is a winged samara that resembles a maple seed. The
bright pink sprays resemble flowers when seen from a distance.
ARMED. Sharp, slightly recurved spines are on the branches and on the
underside of the leaf rachises.