Apodytes dimidiata is the ideal tree for the home garden as it does not have messy fruits and is safe to plant near the house, not disturbing the foundations or paved areas. This is a small bushy tree 4 to 5 m tall, but reaching a height of 20 m when growing in a forest

Apodytes dimidiata occurs in coastal evergreen bush, at the margins of medium altitude evergreen forest, in open woodlands and on grassy mountain slopes, often among rocks. It is a constituent of the forests such as Knysna, George, Tsitsikama, Alexandria, Amatola, Umgoye and Dukuduku.

A fantastic evergreen and indigenous tree that is perfectly suited for the coastal and windy conditions of the Cape.

The white pear thrives in well-drained, compost-rich soil. Young plants are relatively slow growing, but they will grow fairly fast as they grow bigger. This tree needs to be protected against frost for the first year.

The white pear is grown from seed sown in late winter or early spring. Seed should be sown in a seed tray 3-5 mm deep either in a seedling mix obtained from nursery or a garden centre or a mixture of river sand and compost (1:1) ratio. Seeds should be dipped in a fungicide. Cover the seeds with fine sand or fine compost. The seed tray should be kept moist. Germination is slow, it can take up to 6 months for all the seed to germinate.

These trees grow very much faster as they become larger and more established

It has evergreen, glossy, bright green leaves that have a paler green, dull underside. Black rhinoceros are said to enjoy the leaves and bark.

Apodytes dimidiata forms small, white, fragrant blooms in loose bunches, that are borne in summer, and are frequently produced in striking profusion.

The excellent smell of the flowers is attractive to insects, and that is good for pollination.