Indigenous landscaping & garden design
in Johannesburg & Pretoria, South Africa
in Johannesburg & Pretoria, South Africa
South Africa is home to over 24000 plant species across nine different recognised biomes. The grassland biome is one of the largest, second only to that of Fynbos in terms of plant species diversity, and extends from the Eastern Cape northwards through to Gauteng, the North West and Mpumalanga. It is characterised by the scarcity of large shrubs and trees - kept in check by fires, frost and browsing - and the diversity of forbs (non-grass species), particularly bulbs. Grasses (Poaceae family) form the dominant layer of a grassland, and are vital for the protection of topsoil, food for herbivores and seed-eating birds, and habitat for insects, spiders, birds, mammals, amphibians and reptiles.
For the purposes of a garden, grasses add texture, colour, motion, habitat and food for wildlife, as well as helping to stabilise soil and prevent erosion. They can be interspersed amongst perennials, used as groundcovers, planted on embankments or in rockeries, or they can form the main structure of a grassland garden. Many are host plants for butterflies and moths, and quite a few provide nesting material and seed for birds. As indigenous landscapers - and custodians of a grassland in the Cradle of Humankind - we've had the pleasure of not only living in a grassland and experiencing the diversity of this biome, but also the opportunity to recreate this habitat in our client's homes. We've also had the opportunity to visit other grassland gardens to see what works, or to hear what concerns home owners might have.
One concern some people have about grassland gardens is that the grasses are too tall, thereby limiting their view of the garden, or their appreciation of other perennials that might be planted in between. Home owners (and their neighbours) are also generally averse to untidiness, and there is sometimes a risk that a tall, mixed grassland might be perceived as a bit of a 'mess', no matter how much wildlife it may actually support. Mixed grasslands can also be difficult to maintain if you're not sure which species are meant to be there and which are weeds, or if some species dominate and take over. This is perhaps why many grassland gardens end up being monocultures (one species), because it looks neat and uniform and is easy to maintain (anything that is not that particular species can be removed). And such gardens are certainly preferred to lawns if you're wanting to bring variety to your home and lower your water and maintenance costs. But a mixed grassland can be an even more beautiful space - a diversity hotspot that brings additional colour and texture, attracts more insects and birds, and helps in a small way to support our country's flora and fauna. Ultimately, that is why we enjoy our own small patch of grassland and why we walk it every day - to experience the diversity of plants and animals that call it home.
Cyanotis speciosa, one of many forbs (non-grass species) that add significantly to the biodiversity of our grasslands
So how does one create a grassland garden that brings all of this together: one that is easy to maintain, looks good, and has diversity of plant and animal life?
Let's briefly discuss some guidelines:
In the past, the availability of indigenous grasses for gardens was limited - often only tall or robust fodder species were available. But this is changing as more nurseries stock a variety of species better suited to small spaces. If you have a small garden, try experimenting with smaller grass species, and use the larger species as accent plants or for screening. See our list below for some options.
Eragrostis racemosa, a short species ideally suited to short-medium height grassland gardens
If you are going to create a grassland garden, know that you don't have to do it all in one go. Although soil disturbance should be kept to a minimum, most great gardens develop over time, as the plants mature and wildlife finds a new home, so when creating a grassland experiment with a selection of species - preferably those with similar height and growth characteristics - and then add to them as the garden matures. Not only will this help you learn the species and their characteristics, but it will also help you maintain the space and bring you more enjoyment as you slowly develop the garden. Additionally, some plants may not be available at nurseries at the time of planting, either because of the season, because stock has sold out, or because they are difficult to propagate, so by developing the garden over time you can add other species later when they become available.
As far as possible, it is best to use locally indigenous grasses in your grassland garden. Not only are these species adapted to your climate and perhaps your soil conditions, but they might also attract the locally indigenous insects that feed on them (e.g. moth and butterfly larvae), thereby increasing the biodiversity of your garden. There is also a risk that non-native species might escape your garden and invade surrounding natural habitats - in time compromising those areas - so where possible it is always best to use locally indigenous species.
Aloe greatheadii growing amongst Sporobolus stapfianus, in undisturbed grassland on the highveld
Tufted grasses are those that hold their shape, whilst creeping species spread via stolons or long rhizomes. Creeping species are therefore useful for lawns or steep slopes where quick soil stabilisation is required. But for the purposes of a grassland garden, tufted species are preferred, as these hold their shape and help to maintain the structure of the garden, ensuring your garden is not overrun by spreading plants.
There are many additives and amendments one can make to one's garden soil, which enables you to grow almost anything. But if you are going to create a locally indigenous grassland garden then it is best to keep soil amendments to a minimum, and rather work with your existing site conditions. Not only will this save you costs, but it might also create a more resilient garden where other plants struggle to root. Locally indigenous highveld grasses are exceptionally hardy, often surviving inhospitable conditions such as cracked paving, road verges and abandoned properties, so rather than trying to enhance your soil or site conditions, experiment with different species to see what works in your current situation. In terms of watering, irrigation too is usually unnecessary once the plants have established, so use it sparingly to get your grassland established and thereafter reduce watering or turn the system off.
If you are going to create a grassland to support insects and other wildlife, then avoid using pesticides or herbicides in your garden. The goal is to create a healthy ecosystem, where insect 'pests' are kept in check by predatory insects, spiders and birds, and where weeds are manually removed. Using pesticides or herbicides upsets the balance of nature, so if you have a plant that is struggling in your garden, rather leave it to 'work the problem out', or replace it with a different species.
Grasses form the foundation of a grassland, but a healthy grassland has an abundance of non-grass species (forbs) which add significantly to the diversity of the biome. Flowering forbs attract an incredible array of insect pollinators and their predators to the garden, as well as bringing seasonal colour to your home, so once you have selected your grasses try to incorporate as many native non-grass species as possible. These could include crassulas, kalanchoes, aloes, hypoxis, eucomis, gladiolus, helichrysum or senecio - amongst many others. The higher the diversity of species the better. For a comprehensive list of species, search for books or literature on wildflowers native to your area, or visit an indigenous nursery.
Eucomis autumnalis, a wonderful addition to a grassland garden
A well-planned grassland garden will be resilient and low maintenance, but it is not zero maintenance. In nature, our grasslands are kept in check by fires, wind, frost and drought, as well as by foraging animals. In our gardens however, many of these elements are missing, so whilst a grassland garden will be low maintenance, it must still be managed to ensure that it is not overrun by dominant species, or plants you don't want. Alien invasives, for example, are likely to take root at some point in your garden - brought in by birds or on the wind from neighbouring properties - so monitoring and removal of these will always be required.
A young pompom weed (circled in red) is an alien invasive to our grasslands - see our article here. Monitoring and removal of weeds and invasive species from your grassland garden will always be required
Try to make your grassland garden accessible and engaging for both yourself and your visitors (humans, pets and wildlife), by including pathways, seating areas, rocks, logs and perhaps a bird bath or water feature. A dry riverbed meandering through the garden can also be useful and beautiful, allowing you to experiment with a different variety of species. It is also worth keeping a list of the plants and animals in your garden, particularly insects and birds, and especially butterfly or moth larvae that might feed on the plants, as this will add to your enjoyment of the space.
A grassland garden with gravel pathways, rocks and a bench for seating
Lastly, there is no right or wrong way to design and install a grassland garden - the simplest method would be to simply sow indigenous grass seed and let it grow. Our goal is not to limit your creativity or selection of species, but rather to get you started on your grassland journey so that you can enjoy the diversity that comes with this habitat.
With that said, here is a list of some of our favourite grasses for grassland gardens (on the highveld):
There are many Eragrostis species in South Africa, but E. racemosa is one of the shortest, and is an excellent choice for small gardens. In the wild it often grows amongst taller grasses where it helps protect the soil. In a garden it is versatile, and can be used as a feature grass in a rockery, mass planted for effect, or interplanted amongst taller species for coverage of the ground.
This very small, beautiful, tufted species is excellent for small grassland gardens or small sunny spaces. In the grassland biome it is predominantly found on shallow rock plates or in rock hollows where water collects - spaces where taller species struggle to root. In this respect Fibrous dropseed is versatile and hardy, handling both overwatering and drought (even though it sometimes looks like it is dead), and could be used as a replacement in sunny areas for exotics such as Ophiopogon (Mondo grass).
This Eragrostis species is an ideal shorter replacement for the larger and more commonly used E. curvula. It is hardy and will help establish a short-medium height grassland where other species may struggle. It is about 30-50% shorter than E. curvula, but is variable, and hybrids between the two species do occur. Typical forms of E. chloromelas have a distinctive curly leaf when dry, which helps distinguish it from other species. It can be mass planted for effect, or interplanted in a mixed grassland for structure and stability.
Bristle-leaved red top is one of our most beautiful grass species, and is a popular landscaping plant. The inflorescence is a pinkish spike, which turns white later in the season, which creates a stunning display if mass-planted. Melinis nerviglumis is hardy and readily self-seeds, so is valuable for quickly establishing a grassland garden. Mass-plant it for effect, or use it as one of the species in a mixed grassland. Birds use the fluffy seed for food and nesting material, and the inflorescence can be used to great effect in a cut-flower display. M. nerviglumis is related to Melinis repens and the two are sometimes confused, but M. nerviglumis has a more compact form, and is a perennial.
Heart-seed love grass is another species much loved by birds, and has beautiful, subtly showy inflorescence during the flowering season. It is found in moist grasslands, so might be better suited to damp, sunny areas of the garden, although we have found it equally at home in relatively dry spots that receive occasional moisture. A beautiful addition to a small mixed grassland.
This short species has greyish foliage, and is ideal for shallow ground or to complement a short grassland. The inflorescence is a beautiful dark brown digitate that adds texture and motion to the garden when in flower.
This relatively short species has a 'pincushion-type' inflorescence, and although not as colourful or showy as other grasses, is ideal for interplanting between grasses or forbs, which adds diversity and helps to protect the soil.
Boat grass is one of our most beautiful species, the brown inflorescence adding texture and colour to the garden. Interplant it between similar sized species such as Melinis nerviglumis, or (if you can find stock) mass plant it for an incredible display. This however is one species that is difficult to propagate, and as of writing is not readily available in nurseries, but if you do happen to find some then it is a worthwhile addition to any grassland garden.
This very small, tufted species is similar to Sporobolus stapfianus, and the two are often found growing together on rock plates in the veld. Pincushion grass has a unique inflorescence - relatively tall spikes which protrude from the plant during the flowering season, giving the plant its name. It can be planted in shallow, sunny spots on its own or alongside Sporobolus stapfianus, or mass-planted as a ground cover for effect.
A relatively little-known and underutilised species, False love grass has subtly pink inflorescences, and is relatively easy to propagate. Use it amongst other grasses and forbs for diversity in the grassland.
This is one of the most popular landscaping grasses, and with good reason. Ngongoni three-awn is very hardy, and can grow in sunny areas, semi-shade, waterlogged or overwatered areas, and can handle extended periods of drought. It looks beautiful mass-planted, especially if interplanted with accent plants such as large aloes. We use it for mixed borders or as part of a mixed grassland, where a few specimens scattered here and there add texture and variety to the garden.
Another popular and versatile species, and a favourite amongst home owners, landscapers and nurseries - it is also the commonly seen 'pink-white' flowering grass growing along our road verges. It is related to Melinis nerviglumis - and the two species are sometimes confused - but M. repens has a broader leaf, tends to be 'bushier' when mature, and is a fast-growing pioneer that can quickly colonise an area where other grasses may struggle. It is however short-lived, with the plants only lasting a season or two before self-propagating via seed. The beautiful fluffy flower heads are favoured by birds for food and nesting material.
Setaria species are much loved by seed-eating birds, and S. sphacelata var. sphacelata is no exception. Shorter than S. var. sericea (another useful species for large spaces), S. var. sphacelata can be interplanted with other grasses of a similar height for additional diversity in a mixed grassland.
This beautiful, relatively small grass species is a short-lived pioneer, and is useful to stabilise soil or to fill empty spaces in your garden. It has a shallow root system and can grow in difficult areas where other plants may struggle to root. It is a wonderful addition to a grassland, though it may be difficult to find in nurseries, and is best established by sowing seed.
Velvet signal grass is a common but underutilised species that has great potential in grassland gardens. The height as well as the inflorescence is similar Melinis nerviglumis, however the foliage tends to be a bit more 'bushy'. Use it in a mixed grassland where it will add diversity to the space.
This sub-climax species is excellent for quick coverage, or for interplanting amongst perennial grasses where it helps to stabilise the soil. Although it does not have a deep root system, Herringbone grass propagates easily from seed, so by sowing seed one can get quick and cost-effective coverage in difficult spaces.
One of our most widespread species, and a common sight in our grassland and savanna biomes, where the awns characteristically cluster together near the end of the season. Spear grass is a relatively short and hardy addition to a mixed grassland, but as the name suggests the awns can penetrate clothing and cause skin irritation, so if this is a concern consider using it in areas with lower human/pet traffic.
Snowflake grass is one of our most beautiful species, the fluffy seed heads creating a wonderful display in summer, especially if mass-planted. Although it will survive drought it prefers moist, sunny conditions, so consider using it as part of a moist grassland, on the margins of a wetland, in a dry riverbed that may get seasonal flow of water, or in areas around your home where additional water collects (e.g. drainage pipes etc.).
This is a useful and underutilised species that is a worthwhile addition to your mixed grassland. It is relatively short, with pale inflorescence which help to brighten up the space. It is also a pioneer/sub-climax species, so can help fill empty spaces in your grassland and protect the soil. There are two subspecies, A. congesta subsp. barbicollis, with an open panicle, and A. congesta subsp. congesta with a contracted panicle.
This is another beautiful species that is underutilised in gardens, but is well worth adding to a mixed grassland. The plant has blue-green foliage during the growing season, which dries to beige in winter, allowing you experiment with different foliage colours and contrasts through the seasons.
Aristida aequiglumis
Loudetia simplex
Elionurus muticus
Eragrostis gummiflua
Digitaria tricholaenoides
Alloteropsis semialata
Setaria sphacelata var. torta
Urochloa mosambicensis
Trichoneura grandiglumis
Eragrostis patentipilosa
Themeda triandra
Eragrostis curvula
Sporobolus africanus
Setaria sphacelata var. sericea
Setaria nigrirostris
Cymbopogon spp.
Digitaria eriantha
Cenchrus ciliaris
Eragrostis plana
Setaria megaphylla
Panicum maximum
Urelytrum agropyroides
Tristachya rehmannii
Diheteropogon amplectens
Hypharrhenia hirta
Schizachyrium sanguineum
Trachypogon spicatus
A highveld grassland, one of the many areas of Gauteng that has become infested with pompom weed
As custodians of a five-hectare plot of indigenous grassland, we are always looking at ways to protect the biodiversity on our property, and one of these ways is to remove alien invasive species. Like many properties, ours originally had a number of invasives that are potentially damaging to the environment; plants with few native enemies, that proliferate freely, and that out-compete the natural vegetation, thereby reducing biodiversity.
One of these species is pompom weed (Eupatorium macrocephalum = Campuloclinium macrocephalum), a particularly aggressive perennial invader that can look quite 'pretty' in full bloom, but is damaging to South Africa's grasslands. It is a summer-growing perennial that can reach a height of up to 1.3m. The plant reproduces by seed that is dispersed on the wind, and a single plant can soon become hundreds if not removed.
Pompom weed has become a common sight on Gauteng's road verges
Various methods have been proposed to control pompom weed, including herbicides and biological control, and for land where Pompom has completely taken over - think a 'sea of pink' where once there was only an indigenous grassland - these might be the preferred solutions. But for properties where there is still a manageable population - a few plants here, a patch over there - mechanical control is simple and effective, albeit labour intensive.
Properties such as this still a have manageable population of pompom weed and are candidates for mechanical removal
It's important to mention that when using mechanical control (manual removal) one needs to avoid disturbing the soil as much as possible. Aggressive measures such as large-scale tilling are not only ineffective, but can also harm native species growing on that land. Disturbing the soil also provides space for other weeds to grow, especially if you have annuals such as Bidens spp. (blackjacks), Tagetes minuta (khakibos) or Conyza bonariensis (hairy fleabane). This is why it is recommended to cut back such species at their base, rather than pulling them out. In the case of pompom weed however, cutting it at the base does not kill the plant, and usually encourages new growth, often with more flower heads - which can leave land owners with a bigger problem than they initially had. To remove pompom in its entirety one needs to remove the root crown from below the ground, as this is where the roots, leaves, and flower stalks develop from.
Successful mechanical (manual) removal of pompom weed requires removing the root crown, circled above in red
Removing the stalk (highlighted in green) is useful as a temporary measure to delay flowering of pompom weed, but it does not kill the plant. As with the previous image, successful mechanical removal requires removing the root crown, again circled here in red
Here follows a description of our preferred method of mechanical removal of pompom weed, using the flat side of a blunt pick, which we find easier and less intrusive than using a hoe, mattock, fork or spade:
1) Aim the pick about 5-10cm away from the plant (depending on its size), and dig it into the soil at an angle, so that the blade of the pick is below the root crown of the plant. How deep depends on the size of the plant - larger plants require a lower depth, whilst smaller plants usually only require a few centimetres.
2) With the pick head still in the ground, gently loosen the soil by leveraging the pick until you can easily pull the plant out. If the plant 'resists' then loosen the soil a bit more.
3) If the stalk breaks off without the root crown attached, then repeat the process to see if you can find the root crown and remove it, otherwise the plant will regrow.
4) Once you have removed the root crown, gently stamp the ground back down into place
5) If the plant has buds or is in flower or has seeds, then cut off all flowerheads, bag and destroy them. If the plant has yet to flower, then you can leave it lying on top of the ground, where it will soon wither and die.
Some points to keep in mind:
Below are more images to assist you.
A young pompom weed (circled in red) can look similar to native species such as Coleus pentherii (circled in green)
Another pompom weed circled in red
Scan the ground carefully for pompom weed seedlings
Pompom weed seeds are easily dispersed. If plants already have flowers or seed try to cut off, bag and destroy the flowers and seed heads before removing the plant
A beautiful five-hectare plot of indigenous grassland from which thousands of pompom weed plants were removed. This was achieved by two people walking the property for a few hours each day, 3-4 times a week, over two growing seasons (Oct-Mar), and manually removing plants as and when they were found. Regular monitoring and removal (if new plants are discovered) is ongoing.
With the recent drought in South Africa, homeowners have become more savvy in the way they use water in their homes. Many have installed rainwater harvesting systems, whilst others have installed boreholes to utilise groundwater. These measures go some way to making us water-wise, but despite these measures homeowners may still wonder what to do about their gardens. Many gardens still incorporate one or more exotics that may require higher than normal watering cycles, and this is where the use of indigenous, water-wise planting can be beneficial. It is sometimes assumed that water-wise planting means only using succulents, but this is not necessarily the case, and there are many plant species that may not be considered 'succulent', but are nonetheless beneficial in their own way to help you conserve water in your garden. Groundcovers, for example, can spread to cover the soil, thereby helping to conserve water by reducing evaporation. Deciduous bulbs and trees go dormant in winter, and can naturally survive periods of drought. And many grassland species are inherently water-wise, so incorporating these in your garden will help lower your water requirements.
Before we look at a list of possible plants, here are some other changes you can make to your garden to make it a more water-wise space:
To get you started, here are some well-known South African plants worth considering when changing your ‘thirsty’ garden into a water-wise space. Keep in mind that these species occur in different parts of the country, so may not be locally indigenous to your area. Use the list as a guide, and remember that South Africa is home to a rich diversity of plants. My goal is not to limit your selection, but rather to get you started on your indigenous garden journey. Once gardening becomes an obsession (yes, it can!), speak to your local nursery about locally indigenous species you can add your home.
Herewith are 15 water-wise plants for your garden:
This beautiful succulent groundcover is a favourite for retaining walls and dry patches of soil where other plants may struggle. It is rich-green in colour, with dainty pinkish-red flowers and can spread rapidly, helping to cover an area in a short space of time. It can be used to stabilise soil in areas which may be susceptible to run-off or erosion, or can be used as a lawn replacement for difficult to reach areas. A golden-coloured variety is also available.
These grass-like perennials have become ubiquitous on South African verges and in gardens. They are hardy, and once established require little watering or maintenance. A few varieties are available, including Dietes grandiflora with white flowers, Dietes bicolor with yellow flowers, and Dietes iridioides for shaded areas of the garden. They can be mass-planted to create beautiful backdrops to a bed, or used as filler shrubs for dry areas in the garden.
Tulbaghia (Wild Garlic) is one of the hardiest species on this list, and has become popular with gardeners and landscape architects around the country. It has a long-flowering period, and when mass planted creates a stunning display with its pinkish-mauve flowers. It can survive extended dry spells as well as heavy rain, and can even be planted in a wetland to take up nutrients from the water. It is generally a fuss-free plant provided it is used in a sunny to semi-shade position, and clumps can be split after a few years and used elsewhere in the garden.
Agapanthus is one of the most popular plants in South Africa, and is cultivated world-wide. The beautiful blue or white blooms look stunning during the summer flowering season, and help to liven up an otherwise dull area of the garden. The evergreen foliage provides colour throughout the year, and the plants can withstand a fair amount of neglect. Once again, Agapanthus forms clumps, which can be split after a few years and reused elsewhere in the garden.
This aromatic succulent perennial is ideal for a rockery or retaining wall where it holds a neat shape and provides a wonderful colour contrast with its grey-green foliage. Purple-blue lobster-shaped flowers add to its appeal. Cuttings root easily and can be used elsewhere in the garden as filler groundcovers, or mass planted to form a beautiful border to a bed. It is hardy and water-wise, and care should be taken not to over-water it which may result in the plant becoming ‘leggy’ and losing its neat shape.
This hardy, evergreen succulent has become popular in landscape architecture, and is frequently used as a replacement for lawn on verges. At the coast it is used to stabilise sand dunes, and can be grown in areas where other plants may struggle. Cuttings root easily, and the triangular shaped leaves and fruit are favoured by birds, especially Grey Go-away-birds (Grey Louries). It generally prefers sunny to semi-shaded areas, where it will spread rapidly to cover bare soil. Common species include C. edulis with yellow flowers, and C. deliciosus with pinkish-purple flowers.
Aloes are hardy, beautiful species that can be used as shrubs or as structural plants in water-wise gardens. Numerous species exist in Southern Africa, and a number of hybrids have been cultivated for the market. Popular naturally occurring species include Aloe arborescens (Krantz Aloe), Aloe marlothii (Mountain Aloe), and Aloe Ferox (Bitter Aloe). Note that many Aloe species suffer from a leaf scale which can turn the plants white, and homeowners should be proactive in removing this. Snout beetle is also a common problem, as it can damage leaves and the stem of the plants. To prevent these problems avoid overwatering your aloes, and consult your local nursery for eco-friendly solutions.
Strelitzia reginae is one of South Africa’s favourite exports, and is cultivated worldwide – it has even become the official flower of Los Angeles! Strelitzias are hardy, and once established can withstand long dry spells and a fair amount of neglect. Plants can be grown in both sun and shade, and provide a beautiful structural display when in flower. Flowers resemble the head of a crane, hence the common name Crane Flower or Bird of Paradise, and both the leaves and flowers can be used in a cut-flower display.
Dymondia is a very low-growing groundcover, and although it requires some water to establish itself, it is ideal for areas where homeowners want to replace lawn with a low-maintenance, water wise solution. The grey-green foliage provides a wonderful effect, and yellow daisy-like flowers add to the display. Dymondia works well between pavers in a sunny area, or planted in a bare patch of soil in the front of a bed. It is drought resistant and will tolerate a small amount of foot traffic – all in all a wonderful species for the water-conscious gardener.
Asparagus groundcovers are hardy, drought-resistant bedding plants. They prefer semi-shade conditions, but will survive in full sun or shade, and can be used to good effect in a planter on a patio. The ‘Meyersii’ variety (Foxtail Fern) is perhaps the most well-known of the cultivars, with its fox-tail like fronds, whilst the ‘Sprengeri’ variety is useful as a spreading groundcover to help prevent soil erosion.
Popularly known as ‘Mother-in-laws’ Tongue, Sansevieria species are hardy plants ideally suited to shade conditions. They are frequently used indoors, and recent studies have shown that they can act effectively as air purifiers. The exotic species/varieties have become popular, but South African homeowners should look towards using some of the local species, such as S. hyacinthoides, S. aethiopica, and S. pearsonii. Large clumps can be split and reused elsewhere in the garden or in spare containers on the patio or indoors.
The Leopard Lily is a deciduous bulb that makes a wonderful groundcover if mass planted. It prefers semi-shade conditions, but will survive in sunny areas and can handle a fair amount of neglect. Use it to liven up a dry, semi-shaded corner of your garden, or add it to a mixed container. It has beautiful spotted leaves (hence the common name), and produces tiny white flowers on long stalks which are pollinated by moths at night.
This clump-forming groundcover has tubular succulent green leaves, giving it a grass-like appearance. It spreads quickly, producing star-shaped yellow or orange flowers borne on tall spikes. It can be mass planted for a water wise border, or added to a verge to cover bare patches of soil. Cuttings can be taken and planted at the base of young trees to assist with water retention and to help prevent accidental damage from weed-eaters.
Popularly known as Hen-and-chickens, Chlorophytum comosum can be used to good effect to cover bare soil in semi-shaded conditions in your garden. Mass planted they make a stunning display, and work beautifully on a semi-shaded embankment or on a retaining wall. The variegated varieties also brighten up those dull spots in the garden, whilst the green variety adds a beautiful, lush forest effect. Some homeowners prefer to cut the ‘chickens’ off the mother plant, but it is often preferable to leave these in place as they will soon root themselves and help to spread the plant around your garden, thereby helping to prevent soil erosion and aiding water retention.
And finally, South Africa is home to a diverse array of indigenous grasses, many of which are some of our hardiest and most water-wise plants. Some grasses can be difficult to cultivate, but those that are available in nurseries usually make beautiful additions to residential and commercial gardens. Popular species include Aristida junciformis and Melinis repens (pictured above), but there are many others, so if you are wanting to create a water-wise garden then consider visiting your local indigenous nursery and trying a few species out. Apart from being water-wise, grasses will also give your garden a new foliage texture, adding contrast and a sense of movement as they shift in the breeze.
South Africa is home to a magnificent variety of indigenous trees and shrubs, and with a move by homeowners towards the use of indigenous plants, it has become ever more important to choose species that will work in your home. Whilst many indigenous species are now being planted in gardens around Gauteng, not all of them are suitable for small gardens where walls, paving and house foundations need to be taken into account. Indeed, in my day-to-day consultations with clients I frequently come across gardens where incorrect species or incorrect planting techniques have been used, often leaving the homeowner with costly expenses to fell problem trees or repair the damage to property (read about trees breaking walls here). Even seemingly innocuous exotics such as palms and yuccas can become problems over time, either putting pressure on walls as their stems bulge, or dropping heavy fronds and seed pods which can break roof tiles! Fortunately, there are some beautiful indigenous alternatives that are ideal for small gardens, so to help you along we've created a list of the top 10 indigenous trees for small gardens on the highveld, with a selection below this list of species that would also be worthwhile. Please note that the list is entirely subjective, and we'd welcome your feedback on the selection. Here are the criteria used to compile the list:
Please keep in mind that for very small gardens, e.g. 10 square metres or less, you may want to consider alternatives to the list below, or to grow your trees in pots. Use the list as a guide and base your decisions on the spread and height that each species will eventually provide.
Herewith are our top 10 indigenous trees for small gardens on the South African highveld:
With its pale bark, beautiful shape, and semi-deciduous foliage, the Lavender Tree, Heteropyxis natalensis, is one of our favourite small garden trees. It has an ornamental shape, and is an ideal replacement for the exotic Silver Birch or ubiquitous Leopard Tree (Caesalpinnea ferrea). Lavender Trees are slower growing than other species on this list, but with patience they offer the homeowner a beautiful specimen for their gardens. In the wild they are frequently found on rocky hillsides, and in Gauteng some beautiful specimens exist in the Tweedespruit conservancy on the outskirts of Cullinan.
This magnificent semi-deciduous tree can grow to over 12 metres in ideal conditions, but usually reaches between 8 - 10 metres. It has beautiful light grey-green foliage, and is ideal if you do not want your garden to appear too dark. The Kiggelaria has male and female parts on separate trees, so if you want a tree that provides fruit for birds you must choose a female tree from your nursery (not an easy task for your nurseryman if the specimens are small. Try to look for the small grey-green fruit cases during the fruiting season, February-July, or for the arrangement of flowers - flowers on male plants are clustered together, whilst flowers on female plants are individually arranged) Female/fruiting trees attract a host of birds that feed on the fleshy seeds within the fruit casing, thus turning your garden into a natural wildlife haven.
Both male and female plants attract the Acraea horta butterfly which lays its eggs on the underside of the leaves. When the eggs hatch an eruption of black caterpillars appear, which in turn attract insect eating birds, especially cuckoos (look out for Diederik Cuckoos). Some homeowners become despondent when the caterpillars attack their plants, and some even resort to using pesticides to keep them at bay! But do not despair if you see caterpillars on this particular plant - this is a natural life-cycle for the tree and it will soon recover with a fresh set of leaves. The Kiggelaria is relatively fast growing, provides excellent screening, and has a sturdy trunk. All in all, an excellent choice for the small garden.
The Buddleja saligna, False Olive, has become one of the most popular indigenous trees in Gauteng, and with good reason. At 1 - 1.5 metres growth per year it is one of the fastest growers on this list. The benefit to the homeowner is that this species can reach a height of 3 - 4 metres in just a few years, thus providing excellent screening in the shortest possible time. However, being fast does have its disadvantages. Sometimes the Buddleja can look a bit 'scruffy' after a few years, and because the branches are not as strong as other species, they often tend to droop after heavy rains, especially if they are carrying masses of white flowers. Despite these potential drawbacks this is still a wonderful species to choose. Homeowners should prune Buddlejas according to the shape they want them to grow - in other words, cut away lower branches to encourage a tree shape. You can even shape it into a hedge if you have the plants at a young age, and an excellent example of this type of pruning can be found in the Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens:
If you allow it to grow into its natural form however you will be rewarded with masses of white flowers which attract a multitude of insects, and it's not uncommon to see this plant covered in beetles, ants, butterflies and bees during the flowering season. Finally, do not confuse this species with its cousin the Wild Olive (Olea europeae subsp. africana). The latter is a larger species and generally unsuitable for small gardens - see our section at the end of this article on why we omitted the Wild Olive.
The Pompon tree, Dais Cotinifolia, is one of the most beautiful indigenous trees and has become a very popular species in Johannesburg. It is an excellent substitute for the exotic Pride-of-India, and although it does not flower as long as that species, it's explosion of pink flowers in summer provides a stunning display for any garden. The Pompon tree is a relatively fast grower and is frost tolerant. It is regularly used along pavements and sidewalks in Gauteng, and under certain conditions can grow to a height of 8+ metres (although it will usually grow to between 6-8 metres). All in all this is an outstanding choice for your small garden.
The White pear, Apodytes dimidiata, is an excellent choice for the small garden. It grows at a medium pace, and its dark evergreen foliage makes it an outstanding screening tree. Like the Buddleja it can even be used as an effective hedge if pruned for this purpose, although I prefer to plant it to grow in its natural state. Apodytes will usually reach 6-8 metres, but may take about 8+ years to do so. It is an excellent replacement for the alien privet which unfortunately has proliferated throughout Gauteng. Look for the small black seeds with orange-red casing if you're hiking in a kloof in Gauteng - a tell-tale sign that this species is growing close by.
This indigenous Pittosporum has become a popular garden subject, and has a large distribution on the Highveld. It is a medium-paced grower, is evergreen and makes an excellent screening tree. It sports beautiful yellow, edible berries at the end of the flowering season (April/May) which are well loved by birds. This species has a non-aggressive root system so it is safe to plant alongside paving or retaining walls. It also makes an excellent alternative to the exotic Pittosporum tenuifolium that is frequently used as a screening plant, so consider this tree if you're in a complex or estate that requires the use of indigenous species.
The Wild Pear, Dombeya rotundifolia, is an indigenous species that can grow to a height of 8+ metres. This is a fully deciduous species, losing all its leaves in winter, so if it's an evergreen tree you're after then you'll need to look elsewhere. Despite this it makes a stunning specimen for your garden in summer, exploding into masses of white flowers and making it one of the most attractive species on the list. If you find yourself hiking in one of the many nature reserves in Gauteng during the flowering season (July - October) keep a look out for this species as its flowers are striking and alert you to its presence. It has a non-aggressive root system so is suitable to plant closer to walls and paving.
This beautiful small tree or shrub is an ideal species if you have a very small garden space. It is semi-deciduous and sheds some of its leaves in winter, leaving behind small brown tube-shaped pods. It is very easy to grow from seed and you will often find small seedlings growing beneath adult plants in your garden. The flowers are a pink and white combination which attract a host of insects - so much so that we rate this as one of the most prolific insect attracting species. It is also a very fast grower, but this can sometimes be a drawback as the branches may be weak and break in a heavy thunderstorm. Despite these problems, if you decide to plant it in your garden you will soon find it becoming one of your favourite plants. Prune it appropriately in order to encourage a tree shape. A large specimen can be found growing at the entrance to the Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens.
The Parsley tree is a common species of the South African highveld, and can regularly be found on walks and trails in Gauteng, particularly in wooded or rocky kloofs. It has dark brown bark that peels off of the trunk and branches, making it distinctive and relatively easy to identify in the field. It grows to a height of 8-10 metres and larger specimens will create a beautiful crown. This tree does have a tendency to spray its branches in all directions when young, but with patience it will turn into a magnificent specimen for your garden.
The Tree Wisteria, Bolusanthus speciosus, is a stunning small to medium sized tree that grows at a medium pace. It is an ideal replacement for the exotic Jacaranda, and although it does not grow as large as that species homeowners should look at planting this species if they're aiming for the same bluish-mauve colour in Spring. It has a non-aggressive root system and is a welcome addition to any garden. Beautiful specimens exist at the Pretoria Botanical Gardens.
In addition to the above list, here are a few more species for you to consider. Remember to base your decision on the full grown height and width of the species and how these dimensions will fit within your garden.
This beautiful evergreen to semi-deciduous tree is ideal for medium sized gardens. It generally grows straight and narrow and thus is perfect for narrow spaces in gardens and complexes, and is a popular choice for corporate office parks. It grows at a medium pace, with dark grey bark containing longitudinal fissures. These features along with its opposite and compound leaves make it relatively easy to identify and distinguish from other species. For those with patience it is a rewarding species and makes a beautifully shaped garden subject.
The ubiquitous Polygala myrtifolia is another very popular small garden tree, and if you have the space it is a wonderful species to have in your garden. It's masses of purple flowers last for quite some time making it invaluable if you're looking for indigenous colour in your home. The Polygala generally grows to form a large rounded shrub, which makes it a difficult species to fit into small or narrow spaces. The plant can also become quite 'leggy', and because it is a fast grower the branches may be weaker than other species - it's not uncommon to see broken branches after a heavy highveld thunderstorm. Despite this it makes a wonderful garden subject, provides ample colour, and attracts a host of insects and birds.
The Cape Holly, Ilex mitis, is a magnificent, compact tree with an ornamental shape. Its dense dark green foliage combined with a pale and sturdy trunk make it diagnostic. In ideal conditions it can reach a height of 10+ metres. The Cape holly is a medium paced grower, and makes an excellent garden subject. It develops edible red berries and thus is very popular with birds during the fruiting season.
One of the most unique species on this list, specifically because of its distinctive growth of flowers on the stem. The small tube-like red or yellow flowers (depending on which variety you have chosen) attract nectar eating birds and insects, and these are followed by large green to black fruits which in turn attract fruit eating birds. On the highveld the Halleria generally grows as a very dense evergreen shrub, and is ideal to use as a screening hedge or simply as an insect and bird-attracting garden subject. Look for it when hiking in the wooded kloofs and gorges around Gauteng.
The Sand Olive is another beautiful small tree or shrub, and has become a popular plant in Gauteng gardens. It is evergreen, and develops clumps of diagnostic pale beige-green seed pods which make it relatively easy to identify in the field. Because of its dense foliage it makes an excellent screening plant, which in turn provides ample cover for insects and birds. It is a welcome addition to any indigenous garden.
This is a stunning ornamental species that carries edible red-berries which attract birds. A well-known specimen can be found in the Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens where it has been propped up after having been struck by lightning a few years ago. Unfortunately the Olinia is very difficult to grow, and is difficult to find in local nurseries. It's also a slow grower, so for these reasons we have excluded it from our main list. I should add however that if you're not in a hurry, and are looking for a tree that is unique and will bring something special to your garden, then this is an excellent choice.
The Blue Guarri has a beautiful shape, and is abundant on the Highveld. It is a slow grower, so look to plant it with a long-term goal in mind.
A beautiful ornamental shrub or small tree that reaches a height of about 3 metres. An excellent choice if you have a very small garden.
The White Ironwood, Vepris Lanceolata, is another excellent tree for the indigenous garden. It can be difficult to find in nurseries, but if you do manage to find one it is a worthwhile species to plant. It is evergreen, attracts birds with its fruit, and has a non-aggressive root system. It can be sensitive to frost, so keep this in mind and protect trees when they are young.
The Dogwood, Ramnus pirinoides, is a common species of the kloofs and gorges of Gauteng's nature reserves. It is often found beneath the canopy of larger species, and is an excellent choice if you're wanting to create a mini-forest of sorts in your garden. The small red-to-black berries are popular with birds making this a great addition to the bird garden. The glossy dark green leaves are also distinctive, making it relatively easy to identify in the field. The Dogwood will usually try to grow its sturdy branches in a horizontal 'scraggly' fashion, and hence we use it more for our clients as a large filler shrub rather than as a tree.
The Bladdernut, Diospyros whyteana, is another excellent choice for the small garden, especially if you're trying to create a foresty feel. Use it in conjunction with the Dogwood (above) in order to create a forest-type environment. This species has uniquely shaped seed-pods which make it relatively easy to identify in the field if they are present.
A lovely small tree or shrub that is regularly found in the wooded kloofs and valleys around Gauteng. It has distinctively shaped bluish-purple star-shaped flowers.
A large, beautiful tree which resembles the smaller Lavender Tree is some respects. It is difficult to find in nurseries, and generally grows larger than would normally be suitable for a small garden.
The Cape Ash is a wonderful species that grows relatively fast and creates a dense crown. It has become a popular choice for sidewalks and shopping centres, and is ideal for spaces where you need to create a canopy in a relatively short space of time. It also has a non-aggressive root system, so is safer to use closer to walls or paving. We specifically excluded it from this list because it tends to grow very large and wide, over 12 metres high, and thus is generally unsuitable for small gardens where space is at a premium. As an additional note, there are two variants of the Cape Ash, a coastal one that is generally smaller and more compact, and a highveld one that tends to grow faster and larger.
The Wild Plum is another very popular tree in Gauteng, being regularly used on sidewalks and in shopping centres. It tends to form a very wide, round and dense crown, and for this reason is generally unsuitable for small spaces.
The River Bushwillow is another tree that has become very popular in gardens and on sidewalks in Gauteng. This is a beautiful tree that grows to over 10 meters in the wild, mostly along streams and rivers - hence its name. Unfortunately, it is generally unsuitable for small spaces due to the massive size and bulk it can attain, though this hasn't stopped people from planting it in their small gardens! Keep a look out for its pale gnarled trunk on Johannesburg's sidewalks, and then decide whether you have the space for it. If you can plant it at least three meters away from walls and foundations then you can use it. As a side note, it might be worth mentioning that its branches tend to break more frequently in heavy storms than other trees.
The Yellowwoods have become popular trees in Gauteng, and are especially common along pavements and sidewalks. In Johannesburg some beautiful specimens can be found on Katherine Drive just as you turn off from Marlboro drive towards Sandton. The Podocarpus is indigenous, evergreen, and is very sturdy. It is a slower grower than most other species, but if you have the patience, it will be a worthwhile addition to your garden. We have excluded them from the above list because most of them eventually grow into large trees, sometimes reaching a height of over 12 metres. The possible exception is the Podocarpus elongatus, Breede River Yellowwood, which generally grows to about 6 metres, but can also grow into a large tree under ideal conditions.
The Wild Olive has become one of the most widely used trees in Gauteng's parks and gardens. It is a common species throughout Southern African, and is very hardy and frost tolerant. Although it is regularly planted in small gardens, it may be best to consider an alternative unless you have the space. This species will become a large and broad tree in time, and years from now you (or the next homeowner) may find yourself having to prune it aggressively, or remove it due to its size. In Gauteng there are many examples of large Wild Olive specimens, but my personal favourite can be found in Fourways on the corner of Douglas and Glenluce Drive. That specimen is in the company of a Searsia, and has taken many years to reach that size, but our goal as landscapers is to advise our clients appropriately, and so this species is best planted in medium-large gardens.
Acacia (=Vachellia/Senegalia) species are wonderful trees to have in your garden, especially if you enjoy the bushveld and are wanting to recreate that particular biome in your home. Most species of Acacia have aggressive root systems though, and some can grow into very large specimens. The beautiful Acacia (=Vachellia) xanthophloea (Fever Tree) has become ubiquitous in Gauteng, and is regularly used in gardens, shopping centres, along sidewalks and in corporate office parks. Despite its frequent use and beautiful colouration, we would advise owners of small gardens to avoid the temptation to plant it and rather consider smaller species with less aggressive root systems. Take a closer look at the surface roots of a Fever Tree the next time you see one, and keep in mind that that is what it may try to do in your home.
This is one of our favourite large indigenous trees, and is one of the most common species on the highveld. It is often found along our river systems, where it can reach an impressive size. If your home is big enough then planting a Celtis africana will be a wonderful addition to your home - at least 3-5 metres away from paving or walls - but for smaller gardens, rather consider one of the options we've suggested above.
Feel free to comment on the above trees, and if you think we've missed one do let us know what it is and why you feel it merits a mention.
Each tree offers something unique and there are so many trees with stunning characteristics. When choosing a tree, remember that the bark can be a striking focal point. Whether peeling, patchy, colourful, shiny or dull, bark is an asset.
When you plant trees with an ornamental bark, think of positioning them against a backdrop of evergreens which will help to show off their bark, especially in winter. Including one or more trees with showy bark in your garden will help create a landscape with year-round interest.
Here are some indigenous trees to consider for their noteworthy bark. All are good choices for specimens or focal points in the garden. Most become more ornamental as they mature over time. Some can get quite large, so consider their full-grown size before planting.
Initially the bark of this semi-deciduous tree is smooth and plan in tawny silver hues with darker grey patches and a papery grain. As the tree matures, the bark develops a rich texture and flakes off in large scales, leaving craggy apricot-coloured patches.
The bark of this large tree is light brown or greyish-yellow. It is corky and often peels in papery strips and flakes.
The bark is reddish-brown to purplish-brown with a smooth, somewhat waxy appearance. It peels in fine papery rings.
This thickset tree has a grey, thick and corky bark which bears longitudinal fissures.
A reddish-brown bark that flakes off in strips.
Grey, mottled bark smooth in younger plants and rough as it ages.
Creamy-brown to dark grey-brown twisting bark with longitudinal furrows.
This large tree has a very characteristic, smooth, slightly flaking, greenish-yellow bark. It is often described as sickly or sinister.
There is something deeply satisfying about picking flowers from your garden for an indoor arrangement. Typically, we view indigenous flowers as wild and unsuitable. There are however some wonderful long-lasting species, and many indigenous gardens are a florist’s treasure. You don’t necessarily have to find perfectly straight and long-stemmed flowers. Consider the benefit of using foliage in different colours, textures or that can offer a pleasant fragrance. Even indigenous grasses can make beautiful and long-lasting arrangements.
Below is a list of some indigenous plants that can be used as cut flowers:
As mentioned, if you are fortunate to have indigenous grasses on your property, these can make wonderful cut flower displays, and they are long lasting. When creating an arrangement with grasses, it is best not to use any water in the vase which allows the grasses to dry and extends the life of your display for months.
To make cut flowers last:
Garlic is a wonderfully fragrant herb to add to many cooked dishes. It has numerous health benefits, acts as an antibiotic, helps with chest infections, lowers cholesterol and blood pressure and prevents strokes by thinning the blood.
Garlic has a specific planting window from mid-February to the end of March. For best results one should use organically grown garlic.
How to plant garlic:
Growing tips
Harvesting
If you’re living in the Southern hemisphere, February to April is the ideal time to plant garlic, so go out there and plant your own garlic!
Trees serve various functions. In our gardens we might use them for the shade they provide, to screen off the view of neighbouring properties, to block out the sounds from a busy road, or to provide food, shelter and roosting spots for our feathered friends and other creatures.
But trees take time to establish themselves. As the ancient Chinese proverb says: “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago, the second best time is now.” So, when selecting a young tree, you need to consider factors that ensure both you and future generations can benefit from your mature tree.
Herewith are some of the factors to consider when selecting a tree for your garden:
In conclusion, trees have a long lifespan (often exceeding 100 years), so we should view them as permanent fixtures when planting them. To learn more about indigenous trees and which ones to choose, read our Top 10 trees for small gardens article, visit our www.plantbook.co.za website, or ask your local indigenous nursery for assistance.
