WILLOWMORE NEWS - Located approximately 12km from Willowmore along the N9 highway, Wonderboom is a fenced-off bush that catches the eye of passing motorists with its nameboards on either side. 

This prompts curiosity about its significance and what lies within. Wonderboom is home to two notable trees: the ghwarrie tree (Eudea undulate) and a shepherd's tree (Boscia Oleolides), also known as a witgat. What makes this site unique is the shepherd's tree's peculiar feature: three stems emerge from the ground, with two fused together, resembling the eye of a needle.

The third stem passes through this "eye," creating a distinct "needle and thread" effect. The discovery of Wonderboom traces back to 1906 during the construction of the formal road between Aberdeen and Willowmore. To protect Wonderboom from grazing and potential damage, it has been fenced off in recent years. 

Years of grazing have contributed to the unique umbrella shape of the trees. Determining the exact age of "Wonderboom" is challenging due to its slow growth rate, but it is believed that it can be centuries old. If your travels take you past Wonderboom along the N9, stop a moment to see this marvel. 

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