The species Tetradium daniellii, also known as Euodia, produces a large deciduous tree, eventually reaching 10m or so. It is of interest to orchard owners because it is a magnet for bees, producing abundant flowers continuously throughout the summer.
Most of the fruit trees we sell need bees and other pollinating insects to set fruit, and of course fruit trees provide pollen and nectar in return. However fruit trees are only in flower for a few weeks in the spring and if you want to encourage a healthy bee population around your orchard, it is useful to plant other trees which will sustain them over the summer.
Trees which are particularly attractive to bees are called 'melliferous' and come from many different species. They typically produce abundant flowers, often scented, over a long period. The flowers are also particularly easy for bees to access, and have generous quantities of nectar and pollen.
Note that the pollen of melliferous trees will not cross-pollinate with your orchard trees - the reason for planting them is to provide a resource for bees after the orchard trees have finished flowering,.
This variety description was researched and written by Orange Pippin staff. Last checked: 2024.