Mopane (Colophospermum mopane) is a tree that grows in hot, dry, low-lying areas, 200 to 1,150 m (660 to 3,770 ft) in elevation, in the far northern parts of southern Africa. This tree does not grow well outside hot, frost-free areas with summer rainfall. Mopane wood is one of southern Africa's heaviest and is difficult to work because of its hardness.However, this also makes it termite resistant. For this reason it has long been used for building houses and fences, as railway sleepers and as pit props. The termite-resistance and rich, reddish colouring also make it popular for flooring.