This seldom grown tree in the Woodland Garden is full of attractive seed pods.
Originally known as Euodia daniellii, Tetradium daniellii is a member of the citrus family Rutaceae. It originates from China and Korea, and was first described by the British surgeon William Daniell in the 1860’s, and introduced to Kew in 1907. It is a small tree reaching 20m in height, and having pinnate leaves with 7-11 leaflets. Scented white flowers of 3-4mm are borne in corymbs, and these are highly attractive to bees, hence the common name bee tree. Small red seed pods, each with a distinct hooked beak, are produced in late summer. When ripe these will split to reveal two glossy black seeds, which are a favourite with birds.