shepherd’s tree, noun phrase

Origin:
So called because reputedly used for shade by shepherds.
The witgat (sense 1), Boscia albitrunca.
1907 [see witgat sense 1].
1914 Farmer’s Annual 92As specimens of the tuberous root variety, you will find such plants as Witgat-boom (Shepherd’s Tree).
1955 L.G. Green Karoo 105The shepherd’s tree..grows..to a height of twenty feet, sometimes offering the only shade for miles.
1970 S. Afr. Panorama Nov.Witgat (Shepherd’s tree) trees keep watch.
1990 Clinning & Fourie in Fauna & Flora No.47, 9The northern woodlands..are characterised by a number of species of tree: the shepherd’s tree Boscia albitrunca, [etc.].
The witgat (sense 1), Boscia albitrunca.
Entry Navigation

Visualise Quotations

Quotation summary

Senses

19141990

Browse Related Words

By Category

Trees
Shembe, nounn.shibobo, nounn.
Copyright © 2025 Dictionary Unit for South African English