Gariep Nursery, Pretoria

This small nursery can be found tucked away in the suburb of Faerie Glen, Pretoria. It specializes in succulent plants and claims to be one of the first nurseries in the country to make the rare Pachypodium namaquanum (the so-called Halfmens) more readily available. Other rare plants that they can supply include the Spiral Aloe from Lesotho, Aloe polyphylla, many Madagascan Pachypodium species, and Madagascan and Arabian Aloe species.

I visited the nursery a few weeks back on a Sunday afternoon after following them on Instagram. I wanted to buy a specific plant - Haemanthus humilis spp. hirsutus - but it was unfortunately unavailable. (note to self - call ahead to book plants you want to specifically buy)

I enjoyed visiting and exploring the garden which is filled with succulents and a wide range of indigenous plants, including species of Eucomis, Haemanthus, Hypoxis, Ledebouria, Scilla and Scadoxus. The gardens have great potential to be a beautiful destination where one can sit and enjoy the surrounding plants and birdlife.

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​I am sure that the best time to visit is in the winter months when most of the aloe species and are in flower, I’ll definitely come back to see them!

Address: 309 Cliffendale Drive, Faerie Glen

Some text taken from Website: https://www.gariepplants.com/

Instagram: @gariepplants

8 Indigenous Trees for Screening

Trees for Screening

Many landscapes require screening between the edges of a property for privacy or the addition of height for softening of buildings. Mostly you would be looking for evergreen trees with attractive foliage and non-aggressive roots. When designing a tree screen I like to use a combination of tree heights and foliage texture. Here are some lovely indigenous screening trees to consider:

1. Olea europaea subsp. africana (Olive Tree)

Olea europaea subsp. africana is a neatly shaped, hardy, evergreen tree with a dense spreading crown (9 x 12 m) of glossy grey-green to dark-green foliage. Leaves are grey-green to dark-green above and greyish below. The rough, grey bark sometimes peels off in strips. Sprays of tiny, lightly scented white to greenish flowers (October to February) are followed (March to July) by small, spherical, thinly fleshy fruits (either sweet or sour) which ripen purple-black. The Latin name for olive is olea; europaea = from Europe, and africana = from Africa. Don't plant it too close to walls, patios or swimming pools, the root system can sometimes be aggressive. (http://pza.sanbi.org/olea-europaea-subsp-africana)

Olea africana (Image from SunTrees Nursery)

2. Buddleja saligna (False Olive)

Buddleja saligna is a medium sized tree usually 4 to 5 metres in Highveld areas. This fast growing tree is an excellent, quick screen plant. It grows up to 800mm per year. Use it as a pioneer tree for your forest garden. It also makes a very good clipped hedge. It is evergreen, frost hardy and drought resistant and the masses of flowers make a lovely spring and summer show. It will grow in most soils but added compost will improve performance. It may need cutting back after flowering to keep tidy. The false olive does not have an aggressive root system. The flowers attract insects (especially moths) and therefore insect feeding birds such as Robins and Apalises to the garden. (http://pza.sanbi.org/buddleja-saligna)

Buddleja saligna (Image from CJM Nursery)

3. Ilex mitis (Cape Holly)

Ilex mitis is a hardy, small to medium sized, evergreen tree with almost white bark. It has a graceful rounded crown of glossy, dark green leaves that are purplish-red when they first flush.

Massed clusters of small, sweetly scented, white flowers are borne from October to February. (Male and female flowers on separate trees, therefore only female plants bear fruit). These are followed by tightly packed decorative red berries that attract flocks of fruit eating birds. It grows better in moist conditions near water but can withstand dry conditions. With its beautiful shape it makes a good avenue tree. Although this beautiful rounded tree can grow to huge proportions in forest conditions, it is normally a small to medium sized tree. The leaves are used as a soap substitute. Size 3 to 8m (Information from Random Harvest Website)

Ilex mitis (Cape Holly) Image from Just Trees Nursery

4. Vepris lanceolata (Ironwood)

Vepris lanceolata is a hardy, evergreen, very attractive tree with apple green foliage. It blooms with a myriad of small, white flowers from December to January, which give the tree a lacy look. The black berries ripen throughout the autumn and winter and are an important source of food for the birds. The tree is host to the Citrus Swallowtail Butterflies. A beautifully shaped tree and a very good garden subject that can be used as a screen or container plant for outdoors or indoors. The non-aggressive root system makes it ideal for smaller gardens. The timber is even-grained and white. It has many medicinal uses. Size 5 to 10m (Information from Random Harvest Website)

Vepris lanceolata (Ironwood) photographed in Random Harvest Nursery

5. Rapanea melanophloes (Cape Beech)

Rapanea melanophloes is a hardy, small to medium sized, evergreen tree with dark leaves that have a purplish cast to them. It also has really attractive bark. The small greenish-white flowers from May to July attract insects and bees. These are followed by small purple fruits that are borne in profusion close to the stems which attract fruit eating birds. A good garden subject and a useful addition to screen planting with its unusual colour foliage. The wood is used for making furniture and violins and has many magical and medicinal uses. Size 4 to 10m (information from Random Harvest Website)

6. Noltea africana

Noltea africana is a very hardy, evergreen, very fast growing, small to medium sized tree. The glossy leaves are darker above and paler underneath, and have purple petioles. The branchlets are also purplish-red. The flowers are pretty, small, white sprays borne in the axils of the leaves from August to September. The black seeds are encased in a three-lobed, brown woody capsule that splits to release them when ripe. A decorative tree that is ideal for the smaller garden but should be kept as a single stem. Grows well in sun and semi-shade. A good tree to plant for a quick screen. When twigs and leaves are rubbed in water it becomes soapy. Size 2 to 6m (Information from Random Harvest Website)

Noltea africana (Soapwood) plantbook.co.za

7. Loxostylis alata (Tarwood)

A small, well-shaped tree with glossy foliage tinged with red when young and masses of white flowers in early summer, and if the tree is a female it has showy pinkish red fruits. Tarwoods are evergreen, ornamental trees which will grow in a wide range of ecological habitats. This tree closely resembles the Brazilian pepper tree, Schinus terebinthifolius of the same family, which does not have the characteristic red sepals. This is a very attractive small tree or large shrub for gardens. It is also useful for screening and boundary plantings. It grows to 6 m or higher in favorable conditions, but can form a large, dense shrub. Other recommended trees in this family are the red currant (Rhus chirindensis), wild-plum (Harpephyllum caffrum) and the marula (Sclerocarya birrea). (http://pza.sanbi.org/loxostylis-alata)

Loxostylis alata (Tarwood) from SANBI Website

8. Cryptocarya traansvaalensis (Mountain Wild Quince)

Cryptocarya transvaalensis is a hardy, evergreen large tree with beautiful glossy dark green foliage. The leaves are blue-green below. The inconspicuous flowers are borne in the axils of the leaves from December to February. These are followed by glossy red to purple berries that are decorative and attract fruit eating birds to the garden. This species is declining as the bark is used for medicinal purposes. It makes a beautiful container plant and if you have the space a magnificent specimen tree. It stays smaller when grown in full sun. Size up to 12m (Information from Random Harvest Website)

There are many many other screening trees that can be used so don’t let this list limit you!

10 Essential Plants for a Rewarding Vegetable Garden

A Vegetable Garden should be filled with plants that can be harvested for use in the kitchen and home. A wide range of foliage size, colours and textures add interest and variety to planting combinations. I especially love herbs and the beautiful landscapes you can create using them. Here are the top ten plants I recommend every Vegetable Garden should have:

1. Perennial Basil ‘White’ (Ocimum basilicum)

Large, highly aromatic leaves with spikes of white flowers from early spring to late autumn. Leaves can be used in cooking wherever a basil taste is required. Its cold hardy nature will ensure the availability of basil right through winter. Shrub. Height: 80cm Width: 80cm.

Perennial Basil - Medium sized shrub with beautiful flowers

2. Cleveland Sage (Salvia clevelandii)

A hardy, small woody shrub with velvety, textured oval green-grey leaves. Sage tolerates most climates however it does not like to be over watered. Requires really good drainage and a slightly alkaline soil. The foliage is used in pot pourii and in natural insecticides. Shrub. H:1.5m W:1m.

Cleveland Sage - large shrub with beautiful foliage

3. Mint (Mentha spicata spp.)

Most well known of the mints with tasty, highly aromatic mint flavored leaves. The mint is extensively used for salads, sauces and teas. Used medicinally. Useful natural insecticide. Perennial. H:40cm W:spread.

Mint - several varieties to choose from including Chocolate Mint, Ginger Mint and Liquorice Mint

4. Dutch Lavender (Lavandula dentata)

An herbaceous shrub with deeply serrated, highly aromatic green leaves. Large blue flowers are borne on long stems from spring through to autumn. Has medicinal properties. Dried leaves and flowers can be used in pot pourii. Shrub. H:80cm W:60cm

Lavender - grey or green foliage varieties, beautiful aroma and foliage

5. Common Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Mauve flowers in summer with small mid green fragrant leaves. Used in stews, soups, salads and sauces. Medicinally has antifungal and antibacterial properties. Ground cover. H:30cm W:30cm.

Lemon Thyme - Thymus x citriodorus

Thyme - ‘Silver Posie’ variety on left and common green thyme on right

6. Fennel Bronze (Foeniculum vulgare ‘Rubrum’ purpureum)

Very striking, bronze, fine feathery leaves. Umbells of small yellow flowers in summer followed by aromatic edible seeds. Used in pork and fish dishes and a great addition to salads. Medicinal uses. Perennial. H:1m W:0.6m.

Bronze Fennel - adding beautiful and unusual foliage colour and texture

 7. Blue Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis ‘McConnel’s Blue”)

Small aromatic shrub with small spiky dark green leaves and blue flowers. Hardy, prefers chalky well drained soil. The leaves are used in Mediterranean cuisine. Companion plant with Sage. Medicinal. Shrub. H:80cm W:80cm.

Rosemary - not always easy to grow, but a brilliant shrub and culinary herb

8. Golden Upright Oregano (Oreganum spp.)

Striking golden foliage that add interest and colour to the herb garden. Ideal for container gardening or as a contrast plant. Strong Oregano flavor. Ground cover. H:30cm W:30cm

Golden Oregano - contrasting colour to add interest

9. Spearmint (Mentha spicata aquatica)

Hardy, deep green, highly aromatic, serrated oval spearmint flavored leaves. Greatly prized for jellies and sauces. Used in confectionary, cosmetics, natural insecticides and medicines. Ground cover. HL25cm W:spread

Spearmint - small bushy shrub with a brilliant green colour

10. Lemon Scented Geranium (Pelargonium citronella)

The deeply indented green leaves are pungently aromatic when crushed, releasing lemon scented plant oils that deter even the most determined mosquito. Shrub. H:60cm W:50cm.

Pelargonium citronella - good for repelling insects, especially mosquitoes!

Plant Descriptions taken from Doonholm Specialist Wholesale Nursery Website (https://doonholm.com/)

Why Planting Indigenous Plants will make you Happier

Red Hot Poker - Crane Flower - Yellow Honeysuckle

Many gardens today are still strongly influenced by the European style of clipped hedges and formal layouts, but the South African garden is emerging as a strong aesthetic. Indigenous gardening is becoming increasingly popular due to the environmental benefits, growing awareness of sustainable practices and the rising knowledge of locally indigenous plants.

Here are five reasons why you should plant indigenous plants, not only for yourself but for the benefit of the environment:

1.       Indigenous plants are adapted

They are suited to the prevailing conditions of the area in which they are found which means that they often have low water requirements and can withstand the temperature fluctuations and seasonal changes of that particular region. This also means that once established they should be self-sustaining, hardier and able to withstand general disturbances.

2.       Indigenous plants support indigenous animal life

Indigenous plants provide food and shelter to local animal life such as birds, insects, frogs and reptiles. The plants support local insects, which in turn support local birds and ultimately a life-supporting harmonious cycle is created. Interestingly butterflies will only lay their eggs on specific host plants, almost always indigenous species, so in order to attract these beauties into your garden you need to plant their host plant.

3.       Indigenous gardens allow for habitat creation and connection

Large areas of natural habitat is destroyed daily to make way for urban development. Fragmentation of vegetation and animal populations puts these healthy systems in jeopardy. If your garden can replace some of this lost vegetation it can create corridors for the local insect and bird life to move along.

4.       Planting indigenous is environmentally responsible

Planting indigenous plants is beneficial to the environment and the ecology which we would like to conserve for future generations. Knowing that your actions today preserve future interactions with local plants and animals for future humans is deeply encouraging.

5.       We have an amazing selection of plants!

South African plants are cultivated all over the world although many South Africans do not realise the variety and diversity of indigenous plants available to them (some 23,000-plus species). There are so many plants to choose from and an exciting journey of discovery awaits.

Now is always a good time to start. Why not visit some local indigenous nurseries to be inspired and learn more about the beautiful plants locally suited to your area.

Crassula ovata - Aloe arborescens - Tulbaghia violacea

Zantedeschia aethiopica - Agapanthus praecox

5 Things to Consider when Planning a Vegetable Garden

Having an area where herbs, vegetables and fruits can be found at various times throughout the year can be incredibly rewarding. Any homemaker knows the joy of stepping outside and picking perfectly fresh herbs to compliment the evening meal. Likewise many of us have childhood memories of climbing fruit trees in back gardens and can recall the delight of discovering edible treasures.

The landscapes we live in need to be a provider in order to benefit us and bring value to the community in which we live. I give my neighbour lemons and she gives me sweet potatoes in exchange. Sharing the joy of gardening and tending the earth is something that not only brings delight to an individual, it also has the ability to bring people together, provide food during times of shortages and educate the next generation.

It would be beneficial for every homeowner to introduce fruit trees, herbs and edible plants into their garden. While fruit trees can be planted anywhere, a vegetable garden is often a designated area where there are beds assigned to edible plants so that it can be easily maintained and cared for.

Now that you are planning a Vegetable Garden here are 5 things to consider:

1.       Choose the right Position

Most vegetables and herbs require full sun so choose the position of the vegetable garden carefully. If your garden is very shady it is unlikely that you will be able to have a successful vegetable garden so you may want to consider cutting back some trees or introducing free-standing planters on paved areas.

2.       Soil

A whole science on its own, soil needs to be healthy and consist of organic matter, earthworms etc to make sure it is well aerated so that plants will grow well in the medium it is planted in. If soil is too sandy or compacted or clayey it will need to be modified. The best way to do this is to create a compost heap with old leaves and garden matter that is regularly turned and will eventually create compost that can be used in your garden beds.

3.       Access

You need to be able to move in and around the plants in order to harvest them, watch for pests, prune and replace and also to get full enjoyment from them. Pathways can be made from brick, pavers, gravel or bark chip.

4.       Planting

There has been a lot of research into companion planting and also plants which can naturally repel pests such as Tulbaghia violacea (Wild Garlic), Nasturtiums, Tansy, Marigolds, Cotton Lavender and Geraniums. I also like to have several bushy herbs (Rosemary, Lavender, Sage) and perennial plants (Salvia, Helichrysum, Nemesia) that look good throughout the year so that when certain plants aren’t looking great these still add colour and structure to the garden.

5.       Focal Points

In landscape design (as in every artwork) there needs to be certain elements that bring a sense of order, balance and beauty to the landscape. This can be created using focal points and other elements that the eye is drawn towards so that the observer takes in their surroundings and as a whole this atmosphere influences their experience and ultimately their mood. In order to create this atmosphere one can use pots, obelisks, trellises, arches and other objects to create that beauty on the canvas.

Vegetable gardens do not have to be forlorn and ugly. In fact if you have been to Babylonstoren in the Cape you will know that their vegetable garden is unbelievably beautiful and inspiring. Another amazing place to visit for inspiration is The Herb Farm in Midrand. So good luck and let the journey begin!

Gina Switala - Landscape Architect

5 South African Medicinal Trees that should be used more in Garden Landscaping

1. Clausena anisata (Horsewood)

Clausena anisata (Size 3 to 10m) is a very hardy, evergreen, shrub or small tree that is spindly when young but matures to a lovely rounded shape.  It bears sprays of attractive creamy-white flowers from May to August. These are followed by black berries that attract birds to the garden. The attractive compound, glossy leaves droop gracefully. When crushed they emit a strong smell and can be used as a substitute for curry leaves. It is the host plant of several Swallowtail butterflies.  Plant in sun or semi shade. It makes an ideal specimen tree for a small garden.  It has many medicinal and magical.  (Information from Random Harvest) Some of these uses include

Clausena anisata (Image from KumbalaNursery.co.za)

2. Moringa oleifera (Moringa)

The small fast-growing and hardy Moringa oleifera tree is also known as the drumstick tree, horseradish, been oil tree or ‘peperwortelboom’ in Afrikaans. Growing between 5 and 12 m tall, it has a straight trunk and and umbrella-shaped crown of feathery green leaves. Flowers are up to 25 cm long and produce thin and long reddish brown seed pods. Although native to India, Pakistan and Nepal, Moringa oleifera grows in the Limpopo, Free State, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng provinces of South Africa.

According to traditional African and Indian (Ayurvedic) medicine moringa has almost 540 compounds that can treat or prevent about 300 health issues. Used for centuries in Eastern countries for diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, anemia, arthritis, liver disease, as well as respiratory, skin and digestive disorders, it is now considered a ‘super-food’. The powdered leaves, roots, bark and immature pods are used for its nutritional, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and tissue-protective benefits.

Moringa is a source of vitamins, minerals, as well as all the essential amino acids, making it a complete protein. It contains significant amounts of vitamin C, E, potassium (K), iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn). In addition moringa leaves are an excellent calcium (Ca) source and contain 10 times more vitamin A (beta carotene) than carrots. moringa powder can be used as a substitute for iron tablets, hence as a treatment for anemia. Beef has only 2 mg of iron while moringa leaf powder has 28 mg of iron.

In India, moringa leaves are used stimulate breast milk production in new mothers and usually added to lentil soups during the cold and flu season to increase disease resistance. The leaves, gums, roots, flowers as well as kernels have been utilized for managing tissue tenderness, cardiovascular and liver maladies, normalize blood glucose and cholesterol. It has also profound antimicrobial and anti-TB activities.

In developing countries, the moringa leaf powder is commonly used as a medicinal herb, rather than food as in Asian populations. It is often taken as a supplement by HIV-infected people to enhance immunity and manage opportunistic infections. The fact that moringa is easily cultivable makes it a sustainable remedy for malnutrition - countries like Senegal and Benin treat children with moringa. Moringa products range from leaf extract, powder and tablets to protein shakes, seed oils, teas and probiotic drinks. Leaves can be harvested by cutting the top of the plant off when the plant has grown to 1 m, leaving about 30 cm. It is easily propagated by seeds, but needs nitrogen for good yields. It prefers daily temperatures of 25 to 30 °C and neutral, well-drained soils, but can grow well in clay soils. (http://southafrica.co.za/moringa-miracle-medicine.html)

Moringa Tree (Image from https://www.seedsforafrica.co.za/products/moringa-oleifera-tree-medicinal-seeds)

3. Tarchonanthus camphoratus (Camphor Bush)

Tarchonanthus camphoratus is a hardy, large, decorative, evergreen shrub or small tree with attractive silver foliage that smells of camphor when crushed. Sprays of white, thistle like flowers covered in white woolly hairs are borne from March to November. All parts of the plant are aromatic and smell strongly of camphor. This useful plant makes an excellent screen and windbreak. It has a fibrous root system and can be used for binding the soil. It also makes a lovely shade tree for a small garden. This drought resistant shrub is heavily browsed on by game. Used extensively as a medicinal plant.The wood is beautiful and among other things has been used to make musical instruments. Grows Up to 5m (Information from Random Harvest)

The camphor bush is used for medicinal purposes. Problems such as blocked sinuses and headache can be healed by inhaling the smoke from the burning green leaves. Drinking boiled mixture of leaves and water can help to treat coughing, toothache, abdominal pain and bronchitis. Leaves can also be used for massaging body stiffness and also as a perfume. The cotton wool-like seedheads were used to stuff cushions. (http://pza.sanbi.org/tarchonanthus-camphoratus)

Camphor Bush (Image from http://pza.sanbi.org/tarchonanthus-camphoratus)

4. Warburgia salutaris (PepperBark Tree)

The endangered pepper-bark tree of southeastern Africa, Warburgia salutarus, grows in South Africa, Swaziland, Mozambique and Zimbabwe. The name ‘salutaris’ means health giving, alluding to the pepper-bark’s medicinal uses. A related species, known as ‘Karambaki’, has been used medicinally by Arab traders, East African residents since ancient times. Pepper-bark is extremely rare to find in the wild and is listed as a Red Data Book threatened species. Heavy harvested by traditional healers for its much sought-after bark used in traditional medicine, considerable effort is made to encourage propagation of this tree.

It grows easily from cuttings or root suckers in well-drained soil rich in organic matter and makes an attractive landscaping plant. A tropical tree, the slender evergreen pepper-bark grows 5-10m tall and fixes nitrogen in the soil while its leaves makes an nitrogen-rich mulch. Small yellow-green flowers form 30 mm round berries that ripen to a purple colour. Leaves, fruit and inner bark have a strong peppery taste and harvesting is severely impeded by the fruit’s popularity with fruit flies and monkeys. The trees are slow to mature and can only be harvested at around 10 years old, but takes 20 years to reach full maturity.

The bark and leaves of the pepper-bark contain various compounds with antibacterial, anti-fungicidal (particularly against Candida yeast infections), anti-ulcer and diuretic properties. The plant material is dried, then crushed into a powder and used as infusions and decoctions to treat vaginal thrush, chest infections, venereal diseases, body aches, stomach problems (diarrhoea, aches) and malaria. Used as a snuff, it clears nasal passages and when the bark is chewed or the smoke inhaled, it remedies chest complaints, relieves constipation, fevers and body pains. An infusion of the leaves helps against rheumatism and skin diseases, while boiled roots are added to soup to cure diarrhoea. Both stems and root bark are remedies for malaria and when ground up and mixed with water, it can cure mouth sores. In Kenya, the leaves are added to flavour curries. (http://southafrica.co.za/pepperbark-tree-endangered-medicine-plant.html)

Image from http://pza.sanbi.org/warburgia-salutaris

5. Lannea discolor (Live Long)

Lannea discolor is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree with a neat round crown occurring in bushveld. It is often found on rocky granite ridges. The tree grape is a medium-sized deciduous tree that grows up to 15 m in height with a neat rounded crown. Lannea discolor is generally used as traditional medicine to treat fevers and constipation in children. Its fruits are edible and are utilized by animals, birds and humans. The wood is soft and used to make fences. Fencing poles made out of the wood will easily take root and flourish again, which has earned it its common name Live long. (http://pza.sanbi.org/lannea-discolor)

Lannea discolor (http://pza.sanbi.org/lannea-discolor)

5 Unusual Red Flowering Indigenous Plants

1. Sutherlandia frutescens (Cancer Bush)

Sutherlandia frutescens is a very hardy, evergreen, fast growing, sun-loving shrub with lovely silver-grey foliage. The striking, large, luminous orange pea-like flowers are borne from September to December. They attract Sunbirds and insects to the garden. These are followed by inflated green to pink, papery pods that are so light they are dispersed by wind. The pods and flowers are decorative in a vase. It is an important medicinal plant and has traditional uses as well. This beautiful slender shrub is a must for any garden. Plant several together for effect and use as a textural plant. It makes a beautiful container plant. It is both wind and drought resistant. This is a short-lived plant but it seeds itself freely.

Prune regularly to encourage it to bush out. This unfussy plant tolerates many different soil types and tolerates dry conditions but thrives with sufficient water (do not overwater). Plant in full sun. Size: to 50cm to 1m (https://www.randomharvest.co.za/South-African-Indigenous-Plants/Show-Plant/PlantId/695?Plant=Sutherlandia%20frutescens)

2. Ruspolia hypocrateriformis (Red Ruspolia)

Ruspolia hypocrateriformis is a fairly hardy, evergreen, scrambling woody shrub with bright green foliage. The spikes of showy pink to red flowers with darker spots on their lower petals are borne at the tips of new growth throughout summer and into autumn. Butterflies are attracted to the garden by the large amount of nectar that these flowers produce. The flowers are followed by a dry capsule which splits with a loud crack to release the seed within. Makes an interesting garden subject as a shrub and is said to make a good hedge.  It is not readily available in nurseries. Plant in full sun or semi-shade, in fertile, well-drained, loamy soil. Size: 1m but can climb to about 4m (https://www.randomharvest.co.za/en-us/South-African-Indigenous-Plants/Show-Plant/PlantId/510/Plant/Ruspolia-hypocrateriformis)

3. Erythrina acanthocarpa (Tambookie Thorn)

The tambookie thorn is a much branched, deciduous, thorny shrub reaching up to 2m in height. The striking flowers are scarlet with the upper petal edged with green and are held in heads up to 10cm long and about 12cm wide. This is a very attractive shrub when in flower and makes an excellent garden specimen. Care should be taken not to plant it alongside paving as the large underground rootstock may cause the paving to lift. It performs best in a full sun position planted in well drained soil. Do not overwater and keep relatively dry in winter. It is frost hardy. (http://pza.sanbi.org/erythrina-acanthocarpa)

(Image from Wildflower Nursery)

4. Crossandra greenstockii (Bushveld Crossandra)

Crossandra greenstockii is a beautiful little perennial that sprouts annually from a woody rootstock and looks stunning on a rockery. It flowers for quite a long time in summer. Flowers can either be orange or red. It grows in well-drained acid soil amongst grasses. The flower stalks emerge erectly from basal rosettes of broad green, unevenly lobed leaves.

Interplant Crossandra greenstockii with grasses in full sun. It responds well to a fertile, well-drained soil. (https://wildflowernursery.co.za/indigenous-plant-database/crossandra-greenstockii/)

5. Gloriosa superba (Flame Lily)

Gloriosa superba is a striking climber with unusual and beautiful, red and yellow, flame-like flowers in summer; it is suitable for shade or sun, and is easy to grow. The slender stems are produced annually and are upright to scrambling and can grow up to 4 m long. Tubers sprout in spring, and a tuber sends up 1 to 6 stems. The leaves are shiny, bright green and are tipped in a tendril, which will cling to anything it touches. The stems die back in late summer and the tubers are dormant during winter. PLEASE NOTE: that all parts of this plant, both above and below ground, but particularly the tubers, are extremely poisonous, and ingestion could be fatal. The plants contain the alkaloid colchicine. It is a widely used and effective medicinal plant, but incorrect dosage has caused human deaths. Use with extreme caution and only under guidance of a qualified practitioner. Keep the tubers and the seed capsules away from pets and children and do not let the sap come into contact with your mouth or eyes while working with them, as it can cause skin irritation. The tubers are poisonous to grazing stock. (http://pza.sanbi.org/gloriosa-superba)

While most people prefer to have a landscape filled with the tried and tested plants it can also be exciting to experiment with unusual plants that can bring an element of surprise and interest to your garden.

Which Unusual Indigneous Plant is your favourite?

Plectranthus - the perfect plant for Shade

Plectranthus is the largest South African genus in the mint family (Lamiaceae), with 44 species natural to our region, most of which occur on the eastern side of the country. Plectranthus are noted for their aromatic leaves when crushed and provide a mass display of colour in late summer and autumn. Colour selections range between pink, purple and white and many shades in-between. (http://pza.sanbi.org/plectranthus accessed on 02-03-2020)

I love using Plectranthus in garden designs as their broad soft leaves can create a lovely atmosphere in a garden. They are quite versatile and do well in semi-shade below trees where often other plants do not easily grow. They are a bit frost tender and can take a knock in winter, but if you prune them to about a third of their height (at the end of winter) they will quickly send new growth. You can also grow new plants from cuttings and this is a great way to fill up a garden with bare spots.

There are so many species and varieties of Plectranthus, here are only a few:

Plectranthus oertendahlii

Plectranthus hadiensis

Plectranthus lucidus

Plectranthus ciliatus

Plectranthus 'Mona Lavender'

Plectranthus zuluensis

Plectranthus ciliatus ‘Richard’

Plectranthus ciliatus ‘Aureated’

Plectranthus saccatus ‘Purple’

Plectranthus ecklonii

There are so many beautiful types of Plectranthus one can use in a garden! Let me know which one is your favourite?

Screening with Indigenous Shrubs

Most gardens require screening in some form whether it be screening from neighbouring properties or screening of unsightly items such as rainwater tanks or the compost heap. Screening is also the layer of shrubs that can be planted along your boundary wall to soften it and create that backdrop of foliage that adds visual beauty to a garden. I also like using shrubs where space needs to be filled up, for example an empty corner is often a great spot for a screening shrub with colourful planting below.

Here are some beautiful screening shrub options:

Plant Information taken from either http://pza.sanbi.org/ and/or https://www.randomharvest.co.za/ and/or https://kumbulanursery.co.za/

1. Polygala myrtifolia (September Bush)

Polygala myrtifolia is a common, evergreen, widespread pioneer shrub with pretty mauve flowers on and off throughout the year with a peak in spring, hence the names Augustusbossie and September bush. All polygalas also have a showy, and very distinctive brush-like tuft on the keel. The showy petals, beautifully marked with darker veins, are usually in shades of mauve or purple, but can also be pink scarlet, or white. The fruit is a small, winged capsule. Polygala myrtifolia is an attractive evergreen shrub able to adapt to most gardens and gardeners. A tough shrub suitable for low maintenance and water-wise gardens. In the new garden it is excellent as a fast growing windbreak, hedge and colourful shrub able to grow in most soil types from full sun to semi-shade. Size 1 to 3m.

Polygala myrtifolia

2. Maytenus bachmannii (Willow Koko Tree)

Maytenus bachmannii is a very pretty evergreen shrub with small, narrow leaves that have pink stalks.

It bears abundant, small, white flowers that have pink stalks from January to March and attract insects to the garden. It then bears red berries for most of the year. 

This is a well-shaped, excellent garden plant that can be pruned to make a stunning small hedge or topiary. Plant in sun or semi-shade in compost rich soil. Size 1 to 3m

Maytenus bachmannii

3. Diospyros lycioides (Blue Bush)

Diospyros lycioides is a very hardy, deciduous, drought resistant, fast growing shrub or small tree. This exciting shrub or small tree is a very tough plant which grows well country-wide. Its most attractive features are its smooth bark, blue-green leaves, fragrant flowers and colourful fruits that attract many birds and insects.

It bears sweetly scented, white, bell-shaped flowers from September to December that attract butterflies and other insects.  The edible berries are large, red and decorative and also attract birds. As with all Diospyros spp. sexes are on separate plants, therefore only female plants bear fruit. Plant in sun or semi-shade. Makes a beautiful small tree when pruned as a standard. It grows well in rocky areas. Twigs traditionally used for toothbrushes and all parts are used medicinally. Size 2 - 7m.

Diospyros lycioides

4. Halleria elliptica (Rock Tree- Fuschia)

An excellent medium-sized shrub or small tree, that fits well into both large gardens planted in groups and smaller gardens used singularly. Halleria elliptica is best suited to semi-shaded and shaded areas, in any type of soil. Hardy, adaptable and very versatile, they can be used as specimen plants or in mixed plantings. As part of a shrubbery, it will provide colourful vibrancy when in flower. It tolerates some morning or afternoon sun, and can be used in full or dappled shade, even doing well planted under trees. Halleria elliptica is valuable in horticultural due to its versatility, pretty fuchsia-like flowers and attractiveness to both nectar- and fruit-eating birds, as well as many insects.

The fleshy fruits are edible and taste sweet, although they tend to dry the mouth out. They are ripe and juicy when black in colour. Fruits can be eaten fresh or stored for a while, consumed raw, or made into a jelly/jam. The common names tree-fuchsia and wild-fuchsia come from the plant’s fuchsia-like flowers and the Afrikaans common name, kinderbessie, meaning 'children's berry', is related to how much children enjoy the taste of the fruits.

A relative of Halleria ellpitica is H. lucida, which has medicinal, traditional, spiritual and construction uses, particularly for the Zulus. Halleria elliptica grows in the Western Cape and being so much smaller and more shrub-like, it was not utilized as much in these traditional ways.

Halleria elliptica

5. Clerodendrum myricoides (Blue Cat’s Whiskers)

Rotheca myricoides (= Clerodendrum myricoides) is a fairly hardy, medium sized, evergreen, very decorative shrub with beautiful foliage. It has massed spikes of purple flowers in spring and summer which attract the beautiful Carpenter Bees. The edible fruit attracts birds to the garden. Plant in sun or semi-shade in well-composted soil. Prune regularly to encourage it to bush out and keep producing flowers. A beautiful shrub for small gardens and containers. Size 2 to 3m

Clerodendron myricoides

8 Beautiful Indigenous Trees for a Small Garden

Every garden needs beautiful trees to create spaces within the garden and to provide screening, shade and habitat for birds and animals. Trees add foliage, colour and interest to the garden as well as add character and atmosphere. There are so many beautiful indigenous trees to choose from! Here is a list of some of my favourite ones that can be used in a small to medium sized garden:

Information for Trees sourced from Random Harvest Indigneous Nursery

1. Heteropyxis natalensis (Lavender Tree)

Heteropyxis natalensis is a hardy, slender, upright, narrow, semi-deciduous tree with truly beautiful, pale creamy bark that, with age, develops beautiful apricot coloured patches on it. The leaves are pale green, shiny and waxy and when crushed smell strongly of lavender. In autumn they turn red or purple and depending on how cold it is, hold onto them for winter and drop them a few weeks before the new tender green leaves appear. It bears small clusters of yellowish, sweetly scented flowers, from September to March, which attract butterflies and other insects. Ideal tree for small gardens. It is particularly beautiful planted in groves and also makes a good container plant. The leaves can be used for herbal tea and potpourri and most parts of the tree are used medicinally.

Size 4 to 8m

Size: Small to Medium, Growth Rate: Fast Growing, Evergreen or Deciduous: Semi-Deciduous, Frost Hardiness: Fairly Hardy,  Position: Full Sun, Soil: Loamy Soil, Shape: Columnar, Medicinal: Medicinal,  Drought Hardiness: Drought Resistant

Heteropyxis natalensis (Lavender Tree)

2. Dais cotinifolia (Pompon Tree)

Dais cotinifolia is a very hardy, fast growing, deciduous, small tree with attractive slightly blue green leaves. In spring it has scattered pink leaves in the crown adding to the interest. It bears masses of very showy, fragrant pink, pom-pom like flowers that attract a whole host of birds and insects from November to February. It begins flowering whilst still young. Popular garden subject for sun or semi-shade. Ideal for small gardens and containers. Size 2 to 7m

Size: Small to Medium, Growth Rate: Fast Growing, Evergreen or Deciduous: Deciduous , Frost Hardiness: Frost Hardy, Position: Full Sun, Position: Semi-shade, Soil: Loamy Soil, Soil: Well-drained, Shape: Oval, Garden Uses: Small Gardens, Garden Uses: Specimen,  Drought Hardiness: Drought Hardy

Dais cotinifolia (Pompon Tree)

3. Dombeya rotundifolia (Wild Pear)

Dombeya rotundifolia is a very hardy, deciduous, drought and fire resistant, upright tree. It has round, leathery, rough leaves, and attractive, rough, fissured bark which is utilized by Woodpeckers. This is one of the first trees to bloom in spring where it stands out on the bare hillsides in snowy white patches. Showy clusters of sweetly scented white flowers start blooming in profusion on the bare branches in July and continue well into September before the leaves appear. The flowers dry beautifully and can be used for pot potpourri. It is a good bird, insect and butterfly tree. It has a non-aggressive root system which makes it an ideal tree for a small garden. It is quite fast growing and can be planted in sun or semi-shade as a specimen tree or as an element of a wildlife garden. Used medicinally. Size 3 to 5m.

Size: Small to Medium, Growth Rate: Fast Growing, Evergreen or Deciduous: Deciduous , Frost Hardiness: Frost Hardy,  Position: Full Sun, Position: Semi-shade, Soil: Loamy Soil, Soil: Well-drained, Medicinal: Medicinal, Garden Uses: Small Gardens, Garden Uses: Specimen, Drought Hardiness: Drought Hardy

Dombeya rotundifolia (Wild Pear)

4. Nuxia floribunda (Forest Elder)

Nuxia floribunda is a hardy, evergreen, fast-growing, neat and attractive tree that is quite small in drier conditions, but if its roots find water it can get quite big. Pale grey, smooth bark contrasts beautifully with the glossy, dark-green leaves that turn quite purple in winter. Its huge heads of showy, sweetly-scented, white flowers cover the tree from May to September. The flowers attract a whole host of small pollinating insects, moths and butterflies that in turn attract birds. It has many magical and medicinal uses. It grows well in a container, and is also a lovely tree with which to create a small forested area in the garden. Plant in either full sun or semi-shade and water regularly. Size: 3 to 10m

Growth Rate: Fast Growing, Evergreen or Deciduous: Evergreen, Frost Hardiness: Frost Hardy, Position: Full Sun, or Semi-shade, Soil: Loamy Soil,  Well-drained, Medicinal: Medicinal, Garden Uses: Container Plant, Garden Uses: Form Plant, Garden Uses: Small Gardens, Garden Uses: Specimen,  Drought Hardiness: Needs Watering

Nuxia floribunda (Forest Wild Elder)

5. Mundelea sericea (Cork Bush)

Mundulea serica is a very hardy, semi-deciduous, decorative, large shrub that always stands out in its natural habitat of grassland and rock. The fissured corky bark is a protection against fires which are frequent in its habitat. It has blue-grey leaves that are covered in silvery hairs giving the whole shrub a silvery look. It has gorgeous, dense pendulous bunches of deep mauve, pea-shaped flowers from October to February that attract masses of birds coming to sip on the nectar as well as a myriad of insects. With its robust, neat shape and corky bark, it makes a good accent plant but needs well-drained soil. It is host plant to two butterfly species. Traditionally used as a fish poison. The bark and roots have medicinal and magical qualities and crushed leaves are used to bleach hair. Lovely tree with non-aggressive roots for a small, sunny garden.

Growth Rate: Slow Growing, Frost Hardiness: Frost Hardy, Plant Type: Shrub, Plant Type: Tree, Soil: Sandy Soil, Poisonous: Poisonous, 

Mundelea sericea (Cork Bush)

6. Tabernaemontana elegans (Toad Tree)

Tabernaemontana elegans is a hardy, deciduous, upright small tree that has beautiful, large, shiny, dark green leaves and a lovely rounded shape. The clusters of beautiful white flowers are sweetly scented and borne from October to February and attract bees to the garden. These are followed by interesting, large, paired fruits with raised, corky dots like the skin of a toad, hence the common name. These lovely fruits split to reveal seeds covered with bright orange pulp. The fruits are edible. The thick, brown corky bark protects the tree from fire. An ideal tree for a container or small garden, planted in sun or semi-shade. Used medicinally. Size 3 to 5m

Size: Small, Growth Rate: Fast Growing, Evergreen or Deciduous: Deciduous , Frost Hardiness: Frost Hardy,  Position: Full Sun, Position: Semi-shade, Soil: Loamy Soil, Edible: Edible, Garden Uses: Container Plant, Garden Uses: Small Gardens, Garden Uses: Specimen,  Drought Hardiness: Drought Resistant

Tabernaemontana elegans (Toad Tree)

7. Apodytes dimidiata (White Pear)

Apodytes dimidiata is a hardy, evergreen, beautifully shaped, fairly fast growing tree with dense, glossy, dark green foliage. Densely clustered spikes of strongly scented, snow-white flowers that are borne from September to April, especially after good rains. The flowers attract many pollinating insects to the garden. The bees visit the flowers early in the morning when the scent is strongest. When there is a breeze the tiny petals are like confetti blowing around the garden. They are followed by very decorative bunches of black berries with a fleshy red ‘cap’ that attract birds to the garden. The trunk is white and, in older specimens, becomes patched with lichen. This tree makes a wonderful garden subject. Can be used as a small avenue tree, as a specimen in a small garden or create a forest effect by planting close together. Its wood is a beautiful pale pinky-brown. It also has many traditional uses. Size 5 to 10m

Size: Small to Medium, Growth Rate: Fast Growing, Evergreen or Deciduous: Evergreen, Frost Hardiness: Frost Hardy, Plant Type: Tree, Position: Full Sun, Position: Semi-shade, Position: Shade, Soil: Loamy Soil, Shape: Round, Garden Uses: Avenue Plant, Garden Uses: Screen Plant, Garden Uses: Specimen

Apodytes dimidiata (White Pear)

8. Bersama luscens (Glossy White Ash)

Bersama lucens is a fairly hardy, evergreen, small, compact tree with a well-developed crown and beautiful blotchy, wrinkled, grey bark. The young leaves are a brilliant glossy russet brown, turning dark green when mature. The small greenish white flowers, in long narrow heads, appear from September to June and are followed by green capsules that split to reveal scarlet seeds that attract birds. The bark is sought after in traditional medicine and this species is becoming increasingly rare.

It is a beautiful, decorative tree for a shady to semi-shady part of the garden. Protect from frost especially when young. Size 2 to 5m

Size: Small to Medium, Frost Hardiness: Protect when young, Plant Type: Tree, Position: Semi-shade, Position: Shade, Soil: Loamy Soil, Shape: Canopy, Conservation Status: Endangered, Conservation Status: Protected, Medicinal: Medicinal, Garden Uses: Shade, Garden Uses: Small Gardens, Garden Uses: Specimen

Bersma luscens (Cape Glossy Ash)

Do you have any of these in your garden? Which are your favourite indigneous trees?