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GARDENING

TREES

OF THE YEAR 2020

By Elize Malan

ANBI chooses two indigenous tree Adansonia digitata
species every year; usually a well- (Baobab/Cream of Tartar Tree)
Sknown tree, readily available at
local nurseries, and one less common, The tree has a very specific habitat. It is
infrequently available at commercial a succulent and can be found in hot, dry
growers. woodland areas on stony, well-drained
soils. The climate has to be frost free and
Ekebergia capensis receive low rainfall.
(Cape Ash)
Due to the weird appearance of the
This is a large evergreen tree about 15m enormous main stem and branches that
in height that will tolerate different look like roots, this deciduous tree is often
habitats. The tree is able to grow from referred to as the “upside-down tree”. The
Cape Town right up to high altitudes with height seldom exceeds 25m but the girth
mild climates which makes the species of the main stem can be up to 28m when
appropriate as garden, golf course and fully mature.
street trees.
The bark is greyish brown and normally
The rough, dark grey bark is a beautiful smooth. Large pendulous, sweet-smelling
contrast to the fairly large glossy green flowers appear from October to December
leaves and in colder areas the leaves and last only 24 hours.
go golden-red in early autumn. Small
white sweet-smelling flowers appear in According to studies, Baobab trees are Baobab tree
September and are followed by red berry- hermaphrodite plants with both male
like fruit in autumn. and female reproductive structures in The Baobab can easily be grown from seed.
the same flower. In nature, some trees The young seedlings do not resemble the
The trees are dioecious, meaning male and will flower and seed profusely and others mature tree. They have thin, spindly stems
female flowers occur on different trees. will produce nothing. This could be due and the leaves are not divided. The trees
That is the reason some trees will flower to environmental conditions, pollination are slow growing and are excellent as
but no fruit will appear. and/or genetics. potted specimens placed in a protected
position with sufficient light.
The tree can be propagated from seed and The large, egg-shaped fruit has a
cuttings. Tip cuttings placed in river sand hard, woody shell. Once removed, a Would the trees chosen for 2020 be
and kept moist are the preferred method. white powdery substance can be seen suitable for planting at Silver Lakes Golf
The tree will not tolerate drought and surrounding the seeds, hence the name Estate? Not really.
needs to be kept well-watered especially Cream of Tartar Tree. This powder can be
when young. It will withstand light frost soaked in water to provide a refreshing Ekebergia prefers a mild climate and deep
but frost damage may occur when planted drink. sandy soils.
in unprotected Gauteng gardens.
Adansonia is a succulent and requires a dry
tropical climate.
We are, however, spoilt for choice, and
many trees are well-suited or adaptable
to our location, growing very well in the
Silver Lakes’ highveld habitat with its
heavy clay soils. Take the trouble to gather
information on the species you like before
you buy and plant a tree. This will avoid
disappointment later.

www.garden-group.co.za

Baobab fruit

10 INTRA MUROS SEPTEMBER 2020