Black Pearl

Scientific name: Majidea zanguebarica

POWO Status: Shrub or Tree

IUCN Red List threat level: Not Evaluated

GPS Location: 17° 42′ 54.93″ N, 64° 49′ 51.38″ W

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Observations:

Phenological Marker – Majidea zanguebarica

Common Name: Black Pearl Tree, Velvet Seed Tree
Scientific Name: Majidea zanguebarica Kirk ex Oliv.
Family: Sapindaceae

Leaf Phenology

  • Leaf Type: Pinnately compound with 5–11 smooth-edged, glossy green leaflets
  • Evergreen: Yes, in tropical and subtropical climates
  • Leaf Flush: New leaf flushes can occur year-round but are most prominent following rains or active growth periods
  • Senescence: Older leaves may gradually yellow and drop, particularly after flowering or in dry spells

Flowering

  • Inflorescence: Small, pale greenish-yellow to cream flowers in panicles or axillary clusters
  • Blooming Period: Late spring to summer, depending on climate (typically after leaf flush)
  • Pollinators: Likely small bees and flies (flowers are not showy but fragrant)
  • Phenological Indicator: Emergence of fine, pale panicles among leaf bases or branch ends

Fruiting

  • Fruit Type: Woody capsule, bright red when mature, opening to reveal three glossy black seeds each set against a vivid red interior
  • Fruit Development: Occurs soon after flowering; fruit may remain on tree for some time even after dehiscence
  • Dispersal: Seeds are often bird-dispersed due to color contrast
  • Phenological Indicator: Bright red capsules opening to display striking black seeds—highly ornamental and unmistakable

Suggested Photo Angles

  • Whole tree showing symmetrical form and fine foliage
  • Close-up of compound leaf and new flush
  • Flower clusters (small, but good to document timing)
  • Bright red split capsules showing glossy black seeds
  • Ground beneath tree showing dropped fruit/seeds (if present)

Notes for Monitoring

Fruit display may be useful for public engagement, especially with children and botanical education

Majidea zanguebarica is often planted ornamentally for its unusual and colorful fruit display

Fruits are persistent and offer one of the clearest phenological markers for this species

Leaf flush, flowering, and fruiting may overlap, especially in consistently warm tropical settings

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