Welcome to Gardening in South Africa!

Cupressus macrocarp 'Wilma' Picture courtesy Kazimingi NurseryDescription & Interesting Facts:

'Goldcrest' is not a hybrid created from two different parent species. Instead, it's a variation of the Monterey cypress (Hesperocyparis macrocarpa) itself. It is commonly referred to as “Lemon Cypress” “Goldcrest” and “Golden Monterey Cypress”.

Monterey Cypress (Hesperocyparis macrocarpa)

The Monterey cypress is a medium-sized coniferous evergreen which often becomes irregular and flat-topped as a result of the strong winds typical of its native area. In perfect growing conditions it can attain heights of up to 40 meters with a trunk diameter of 2.5 meters. The bright green foliage grows in dense sprays and releases a deep lemony aroma when crushed.

It is native to a small stretch of California's central coast, particularly the Monterey Peninsula. It's also found on Guadalupe Island off the coast of northern-western Mexico. While rare in its native habitat, it has been widely cultivated in various coastal regions worldwide, including South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, and parts of Europe.

It was cultivated very early in the United Kingdom. In 1846 Karl Hartweg sent the Royal Horticultural Society seeds along with a report on his journeys in California.

In the past the Monterey Cypress has been classified as Cupressus macrocarpa, Callitropsis macrocarpa, and more recently as Hesperocyparis macrocarpa.  As of 2024 Hesperocyparis (Western Cypress) is listed as the correct classification by Plants of the World Online, World Flora Online, and the Gymnosperm Database. The change in classification is due to recent phylogenetic analyses that suggest a closer relationship between the Monterey cypress and other New World cypresses, leading to the creation of the genus Hesperocyparis.

Studies confirm that cypresses represent a very old plant family. Their origins can be traced back to Pangea, and the evolutionary divergence of the northern and southern subfamilies of cypresses actually reflects the break-up of Pangea about 153 million years ago.

(Hesperocyparis macrocarpa ‘Goldcrest’)

This beautiful conifer grows between 3 and 4 metres high in ten years, and ultimately 10 metres or more as a mature specimen. The colour of the foliage changes from lime-green in mid-summer to a rich golden-yellow in winter, providing year-round interest in your garden. The needles emit a strong lemon scent when bruised, adding an aromatic element to your outdoor space.

A few other cultivars of Monterey cypress have been bred:

Hesperocyparis macrocarpa 'Goldcrest Wilma'

Goldcrest Wilma is a slow-growing dwarf cultivar of Goldcrest with an annual growth rate of around 15cm. It has a dense and narrow columnar form and fragrant bright yellow foliage all year round. It will mature to a height of 1.8 to 2.4metres, with a spread of 30 to 60 centimetres.  

Cupressus macrocarpa 'Goldcrest' Picture by Forest and Kim Starr Environmental from flickrIn the Garden:

Cupresses add year-round colour and structure to garden landscapes, but in colder climates these shapely and statuesque evergreens truly come into their own in winter, dominating the landscape when many trees and shrubs are dormant. Their impact is further enhanced by the fact that cold weather intensifies the coloration of the foliage, turning the plants into eye-catching features.

The unique yellow-green colour of Goldcrest and Wilma can play off the darker greens of other conifers, while texture can be experimented with by placing the shrub next to boulders and fencing.

As solitary garden specimens they are unsurpassed, growing with a natural, symmetrical shape. An added bonus is that their fibrous roots are not invasive. They both look lovely in pots, especially the dwarf cultivar Wilma, as it is slower growing, with tighter branching.

Because conifers respond well to trimming they are perfect for hedges and privacy screens, and will stand up to salt wind.

With its miniscule leaves and dense, compact growth habit, goldcrest makes a near perfect standard plant. It can be clipped into many different topiary shapes including spirals, poodles - best described as multi-tiered standards with two or more ‘balls’ of foliage on a single stem, and other less formal designs. The suggested stem height for these standards is 75 to 150cm.

Cultivation:

In South Africa conifers will grow in many of our climatic regions, from the seashore to colder inland regions.

The key to growing healthy conifers is to ensure that they have sufficient space in which to grow and develop without interference from surrounding structures or competing plants. Sunlight all around the plant and free air movement ensures that plants remain healthy and mature to a ripe old age.

What is the ideal climate for growing the Goldcrest Cypress?

Understanding the climatic conditions of the native range of any plant gives us invaluable insight into its growth requirements. The Monterey cypress grows wild along the California coast, and has been widely cultivated away from its native range, both elsewhere along the California coast, and in other areas of the world with similar oceanic climates.

The North Coast of California averages a temperate Mediterranean climate, and along the Pacific Ocean coastline, winters are mild and rainy, and summers mild, cool and dry.

Is the Goldcrest Cypress cold and frost hardy?

Gold crest cypress prefers cool, moist climates with temperatures between 27°C and -6°C.

It is generally frost hardy, but in areas with very harsh winters, cold winter winds and severe frost will burn the needles and the tree will need some protection. Plant in a warm, wind sheltered position or consider panting into pots which can be moved in winter.

Covering with a Frost Cloth or Burlap will create a barrier against freezing temperatures. Ensure the cover is secure but allows for some airflow.

A layer of mulch helps to retain soil warmth. Aim for a thickness of 5 to 7cm to maximize insulation. Never pile mulch up against the stems of plants.

Is the Goldcrest Cypress heat tolerant?

In South Africa many conifers like gold crest battle in the arid, semi-desert climatic zones, where dry soils and scorching summer temperatures hamper their growth.

When planted in areas with hot summers in the interior of California away from the coastal fog belt, Monterey cypress has proved highly susceptible to cypress canker, caused by the fungus Seiridium cardinale, and rarely survives more than a few years. This disease is not a problem where summers are cool.

Does Goldcrest Cypress need sun or shade?

Gold crest prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. For optimal growth and good colouring, ensure that it receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.

How much water does the Goldcrest Cypress require?

Young plants should be watered weekly during the first season until established, but once established they will only need supplemental watering during dry spells.

Overwatering can cause root rot, but because the untrained eye does not recognise when conifer foliage is wilting, beware of the danger of conifers remaining dry for too long, as water stress can also cause damage and ultimately death. In particularly dry periods, this group of plants will also benefit from a light spray to cool their outer foliage, but this should be done in the morning, before the hottest part of the day.

What are the soil requirements for Goldcrest Cypress?

Gold crest will adapt to most well-drained garden soils. Do not enrich the soil, as, like its parent, the Monterey cypress, Goldcrest is adapted to growing in poor, sandy, well-draining soils that are low in organics and not very fertile.

This poor soil allows the slow-growing tree to pace its development to match its height with its roots, helping to ensure that winds do not blow the thin and narrow plant over.

Fertilising Goldcrest Cypress

Don't fertilise a gold crest cypress tree, as in its native environment it grows in poor soil conditions, and generally garden soils will be a lot more fertile. Very fertile soils will result in quick, uneven growth which could result in an unstable tree.

Can the Gold Crest Cypress be grown indoors?

You might recognize both Gold Crest and Wilma as the potted evergreens that seems to show up in many retail stores before Christmas for their festive looks. If you purchased one to decorate and don’t know what to do with it after Christmas, you could consider planting it in the garden or in a pot on the patio. However, if you don’t have a garden you may be able to keep it growing indoors if the conditions are good.

Indoors it needs to be kept in a place with sufficient humidity. Keep the humidity around it high by adding a humidifier to the area and place it away from any drafts or heaters.

It needs 5 to 6 hours of strong indirect sunlight or full morning sun. Don't put it in a north facing window with direct sun for most of the day, or you risk burning the foliage.

Ensure that it is potted in very well drained soil, a good cacti or succulent mix is perfect.

In hot weather, a thorough weekly watering should suffice. Allow the soil to dry before watering again, but ensure that it is never dry for too long. Overwatering, or letting the plant stand for long periods in a drip tray full of water can induce root rot.

Potted plants can be fed occasionally with an organic fertiliser, using half the recommended dosage.

After trimming a potted specimen you might notice that the tips of the pruned branches turn brown. That is part of the natural process and the brown spots should be disguised in due time by new bushy growth.

Potting and Repotting Goldcrest Cypress

A potted cypress should be re-potted once every three to four years. Move it to a larger pot, at least one size bigger than the old pot. Excellent drainage is crucial so make sure the pot you use has large drainage holes. Terracotta pots are ideal because they let air get to the roots but the pots also dry out faster so adjust the watering frequency accordingly.

Use a potting mixture which has sharp drainage. A succulent and cacti mix would be ideal.

To keep growth in check some of the roots can be trimmed back conservatively when repotting.

Trim the plant lightly to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.

Pruning

The goldcrest cypress, with its slow growth and natural good form, does not require trimming.

Regular trimming is required when the plant is growing in a pot or is used as a hedge, topiary or bonsai. In these cases, it needs to be done carefully and in a timely fashion, as goldcrest, like most conifers, does not take well to hard pruning. Regular light trimming is the secret to success.

Propagation:

Seeds:

Although cypress trees can be grown from seed, most are cultivars and propagating them from seed does not produce a plant with the same features as the parent, therefore, propagation from seed is not recommended.

Cuttings:

The best time for propagating goldcrest from cuttings is in the winter.

Cut pieces of stem about 10cm long.

Strip the foliage off the bottom part of the stems so the first 5cm is bare. Moisten the cut ends and dip them in rooting hormone.

Moisten some well-draining potting mix and add it to a small pot. Using a pencil or stick, poke holes into the soil and insert the cuttings.

Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag, using sticks to keep the plastic in place. Make sure the plastic does not touch the cuttings.

Place the pot in a warm, sheltered location away from direct sunlight. Mist spray the soil to water the cuttings as needed, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy.

When the cuttings have developed a good root system you will feel the resistance if you lightly tug on a cutting. 

Plant the rooted cuttings into individual pots and place them in a warm and sunny spot to grow on.

Problems, Pests and Diseases:

Cypress is prone to attacks by Cyprus aphids, mealybugs, caterpillars, and scale insects. If controlled with insecticidal soap these pests usually don't affect the overall health of the tree.

Cypress canker

When planted inland in areas with hot summers, away from coastal fog belts, the Monterey cypress has proved highly susceptible to cypress canker, caused by the fungus Seiridium cardinale, and rarely survives more than a few years. This disease is not a problem where summers are cool.

The disease often starts at the top of the tree, causing dieback, and progresses downwards. It then spreads inwards and attacks the cambial tissue producing symptoms like tip or branch dieback and stem lesions. Trunks and branches typically have oozing resin and sunken areas of bark often have powdery brown deposits.

There is no chemical treatment for canker disease, and it is very difficult to treat. Depending on the location and extent of the canker, it may be possible to remove only the affected area of the tree, by cutting out all cankered areas, pruning back around 10 to 15cm beyond the affected parts into healthy wood. However, in most cases the entire tree will have to be removed due to weakened structural integrity caused by the cankers.

Bacterial canker often enters the tree through wounds – including pruning wounds made in autumn and winter.

The fungus is moved by wind and within plants by splashing water. The fungus also can be transferred by pruning tools and infected nursery stock. The pathogen enters trees through naturally occurring wounds or damaged tissue.

Disease development is favoured by prolonged periods of fog or light rain during moderate temperatures. Cankers enlarge faster on drought-stressed trees.

If you have lost trees due to this disease, Instead of cypress, consider planting Thuja spp.

White Correa Image by James Gaither from flickrDescription & Interesting Facts:

Correa is a genus of eleven species of flowering plants native to Australia, in the family Rutaceae. The species are known for their leathery leaves and tubular flowers that come in various colours, including cream, pure white, greenish-yellow, pink, orange and red. They generally have a dense shrubby growth habit, with varieties which are excellent for hedging or as a ground cover.

Due to their nodding bell-like flowers which look similar to a fuchsia, Correa alba was given the common name White Australian Fuchsia. However, unlike the rather delicate real fuchsias, correas are frost hardy, drought tolerant, and adaptable to a wide range of growing conditions.

White Correa, White Australian Fuchsia (Correa alba)

The white correa is endemic to areas of south-eastern Australia, and typically grows in coastal heathland and shrubland, or on sand dunes very close to the beach, rocky headlands or cliffs.

It has a purely coastal occurrence in New South Wales, and south from Port Stephens. It has a patchy distribution along most of the Victorian coast, and is found along the north and east coasts of Tasmania as well as the islands of Bass Strait. It also grows along the South Australian coast from Mt. Gambier to Adelaide and Kangaroo Island.

The white correa is a fast growing evergreen shrub with a dense rounded habit, reaching around 1.5 to 2m in height and spreading 1m. The ovate grey-green leaves are leathery with very hairy undersides and reddish-brown new growth.

Flowers appear between mid-autumn and early winter (April to June), but can also appear sporadically on the bushes throughout the year.

In this species, the flowers are not the typical tubular Correa flowers but are more flattened and star-shaped with the four petals spread out rather than fused into a tube. They are produced solitarily or in small clusters in the leaf axils. The blooms are usually white but some forms will show a tinge of pink. The fruits are composed of small woody cocci (segments).

Correa alba Image by James Gaither from flickrUsing the White Correa in the garden

This attractive and durable plant brightens the landscape in autumn and winter when many gardens look a bit bleak. Because it is a small sized plant it is ideal for growing in smaller gardens and containers. It is also a popular bonsai plant.

The white correa works well in the garden as a low-growing hedge to define borders between different parts of the garden.

Because it is able to tolerate salty coastal winds where other plants struggle, in such an environment you can use them as a small windbreak to create a calmer microclimate for plants growing nearby.

Plant white correa alongside pathways, or repeat the use of the plants mounded effect for continuity in mixed plantings and borders.  Pruned or unpruned the white correa can be incorporated into all types of garden design. It blends in just as effortlessly in wild and informal or cottage themes as it does in contemporary garden design styles.

The white correa is perfect for moonlight gardens as the pale pink or white flowers shine from a background of metallic-grey foliage, looking quite magical on a cold moonlit winter’s night.

The plant serves as a food source for nectar-feeding birds and insects, and its dense growth habit provides shelter for small creatures.

Companion plants for the White Correa

The white correa is great in water-wise gardens, combined with other plants that have similar needs in terms of water, sunlight, and soil.

Coastal Rosemary (Westringia)

Coastal Rosemary is a great companion for the white correa. This Australian native is well-regarded for its robust nature and its lovely flowers in a range of hues from mauve to blue-purple or white. The needle-like shape of its foliage contrasts well with the rounder leaves of the white correa, and because its grey-green foliage is a similar shade to that of correa, planted together they provide rhythm and continuity in the garden.

Members can click here to read more about Coastal Rosemary

Australian Brush Cherry (Syzigium paniculatum)

Syzigium paniculatum, known in Australia as Lilly Pilly, is endemic to the littoral and subtropical rainforests of the central coast of New South Wales. This evergreen with its glossy green leaves, reddish new growth, attractive flowers and ornamental fruits, is one of the most popular garden plants in Australia today, particularly for hedging, topiary, and for windbreaks at the coast. 'Compacta' is a dwarf variety with a rounded form and bronzy-red new foliage, throughout the year.

Members can click here to read more about the Australian Brush Cherry

Fan Flower (Scaevola)

The fan flower is native to Australia and can be found growing wild in coastal districts, commonly on coastal dunes and in dry forests, occurring mainly on sandy soils.  Many beautiful cultivars have been bred for the garden in shades of purple, blue, mauve and white, and they flower prolifically and almost continuously in warm climates; or until the first frost in colder regions. Planted underneath the white correa its trailing habit and fan-shaped flowers provide a different texture to Correa’s upright growth and bell-shaped flowers.

Members can click here to read more about the Fan Flower

The Hottentots Fig, Kaapsevy (Carpobrotus)

This genus of succulents is native to coastal regions of Southern Africa as well as Australia. They’re known for their fleshy leaves, vibrant daisy-like flowers, and their ability to withstand harsh coastal conditions. Carpobrotus provides a contrast to Correa with its succulent leaves and bright flowers. It is often seen as a pioneer plant on disturbed sites and in large areas is essential for the fast stabilization of sandy slopes. In areas prone to wild fires, it makes a good fire-resistant barrier.

Members can click here to read more about the Hottentots Fig

Cultivation:

Coming from coastal sand dunes of Tasmania and south-eastern Australia, the white correa is ideal for seaside gardens, shrugging off salt winds easily and even coping well with salt spray.

Is White Correa cold and frost hardy?

Established plants are cold hardy down to -5°C and will tolerate frost. Protect young plants with a frost cover.

Does White Correa prefer sun or shade?

Correa will grow in full sun or semi-shade, however, it has been observed that in coastal regions the plant will thrive in full sun, but in bushland in their native homeland, most grow naturally as under-storey plants where they receive strong light but dappled shade.

In South Australia most garden varieties prefer conditions where they receive some shade during the hottest part of the day, and in South Africa they will also do well under the same conditions.  

Is the White Correa drought tolerant?

Well-established plants show remarkable drought tolerance and will only need a deep watering every three weeks or so during hot dry weather.  

Like most plants, correas need special attention while they are becoming established. This means regular watering during their first summer and autumn. However, in their second summer watering should become less frequent, allowing the topsoil to dry out before re-watering, and then soaking deeply.

In winter rainfall regions the plants will need perfect soil drainage and watering in summer.

What soil type is best for White Correa?

In the wild correa grows in sandy or rocky areas, on limestone or calcareous soils.  Nevertheless, it is not fussy and will grow in most garden soils with good drainage. If your soil is impoverished, enrich it with compost before planting.

The secret to growing correas successfully is drainage as the plants will not tolerate ‘wet feet’.

In the heavier loams and particularly clay soils, correas are sure to struggle. Fortunately this problem is easily remedied by growing your plants in pots or on a mound raised 15-20cm above ground level. Adding gypsum to clay soils (1 kg to the square metre) before planting is also recommended.

Mulching is not recommended as this is likely to induce collar rot, a fungal disease that is caused by a build-up of high humidity underneath the plant's canopy

Does White Correa require feeding?

Feeding your correa plant with a general organic fertiliser in spring and again in mid to late summer will encourage more abundant blooming.

The best time to prune White Correa

The plants can be pruned at any time but to ensure good blooming next season its best to prune after flowering in late winter, or in early spring and summer.

Propagation:

White Correa can be grown from seed, but the quickest and most effective method of propagation is cuttings taken in spring or early summer.

Select a nice healthy branch that is actively growing, and take 10 to 15cm long cuttings. You want to cut the piece just below a lead join (node) and then remove the lower leaves, leaving a few at the top, then trimming the remaining leaves in half. Dip the base of the cutting in rooting hormone (optional).

Plant the cuttings firmly into pots or trays with a well-draining potting or seedling mix, or a 50:50 mix of palm peat and perlite. Place your cuttings in a warm and bright location, but not in direct sunlight.

Maintain consistent moisture, but avoid overwatering. A DIY mini-greenhouse made with clear plastic will increase humidity.

Problems Pests & Diseases:

If grown correctly the white correa does not suffer from diseases. However, in waterlogged soils root rot may kill the plants. Ensure your soil is perfectly drained and do not overwater.

Common pests include aphids, caterpillars, and thrips, which can cause leaf deformation and discoloration.

Stocks Vintage Mix. Picture courtesy Ball Horticultural CompanyAdding some colour to your winter and spring garden need not break the bank. Many flowering annuals are easy to grow from seed, and some even prefer to be sown directly into garden beds because they resent their roots being disturbed.

Once your late summer garden has faded, been tidied up and all summer annuals removed, you can easily assess where the best places are to grow some winter and spring colour. If your budget is tight, plant only in the most prominent areas like entryways, patios and within the view of windows, where they can be admired.

For glorious, instant gratification nothing beats bedding plants, and just a few packets of seeds and some trays of seedlings will transform your winter garden into a kaleidoscope of brilliant colour.

Snapdragons Picture courtesy Ball Horticultural CompanyMany bedding plants grow beautifully in containers, and a few strategically placed groupings of flowering pots and hanging baskets will instantly add a warm and welcoming touch.

In cold winter regions, gardeners sow seeds and start planting out trays of winter seedlings once the soil temperatures have cooled down significantly in autumn. Sowing and planting times vary from region to region, and not all so-called called “winter annuals” are fully hardy to frost, so choose your varieties carefully.

In subtropical and humid regions, late summer, autumn and winter are the best times to plant a flower garden, and many winter annuals, as well as summer flowering annuals are sown during these cooler months.

In our winter rainfall regions autumn and winter are also prime times for growing a flower garden.

With the wide selection of beautiful bedding plants available to South African gardeners, there is no excuse not to have a beautiful winter garden this season.

I hope this list will inspire your to have some fun and grow some winter and spring joy.

Namaqualand Daisy. Image by NauticalVoyager from PixabayAfrican/Namaqualand Daisy

Namaqualand Daisies are easy to grow winter and spring flowering annuals which are sown directly into sunny garden beds in autumn. They grow quickly to about 35cm tall and 30cm wide, and their flowers come in the traditional bright orange and yellow, as well as pastel shades like salmon, cream and pure white. They require as much sunlight as you can provide as the flowers only open in the sun and will close at night or on overcast days.

These cheerful daisies are used as a low cover around shrubs in hot, sunny beds, or as the focal point in mass plantings. They make cheerful fillers amongst dormant roses, and pretty borders, so sow them in mass for hassle-free colour.

Members can click here to read more about Namaqualand Daisies

Alyssum MixedAlyssum, Heuningblom

Alyssum is a compact plant that grows about 15cm tall and spreads about 20 to 25cm. It remains one of the most popular bedding plants because it is low maintenance, long flowering and very easy to grow all year round. Its honey scented flower spikes are available in lovely shades of pink, rose, purple, mauve, white and yellow.

This low grower makes a wonderful carpet-like ground cover that you can use as an edging plant in the garden, or to fill nooks and crannies on walkways and walls. Alyssum also mixes effortlessly with other flowering plants in hanging baskets and pots. The flowers attract vital insect pollinators like bees to the garden, so plant it as a border to the fruit and vegetable garden.

Members can click here to read more about Alyssum

Linaria Fairy BouquetBaby Snapdragon, Linaria

Baby snapdragons grow well throughout South Africa. In frost-free regions they are sown in late summer and autumn, and in cold and frosty gardens they are sown during spring and early summer. They require no special care, and the seeds can simply be thrown directly where they are to grow. They germinate readily and quickly produce emerald green leaves and charming, miniature, two-lipped snapdragon-like flowers in a rainbow mixture of red, pink, yellow, purple, blue and white. The varieties vary slightly in height from 20 to 45cm, with a spread of 20 to 30cm.

These babies look simply stunning when heavily seeded in an isolated area and will happily mingle with other annuals, perennials or grasses. Try them in gravel or rock gardens, borders, meadows or cottage gardens. Dwarf strains are lovely mixed with other annuals in containers, hanging baskets and window boxes. The blooms make charming little bouquets, and the more you pick them more they bloom.

Members can click here to read more about Linaria

Bokbaaivygies Bokbaai Vygie

Bokbaai vygies are one of South Africa’s most famous wildflower exports and grown worldwide for their multitude of silky-textured flowers in dazzling shades of yellow, cream, pink, lavender, magenta, and orange. This winter-growing succulent forms a low groundcover around 10cm tall with a spread of 30cm. The green or maroon-tinted spoon-shaped leaves have conspicuous raised surface cells which are modified for water storage, and glisten beautifully in bright sunlight.

Bokbaaivygies can be used just about anywhere you have full sun. Their vibrant colours and glistening foliage are impossible to ignore in rock gardens, cascading over a wall, draping from a mixed container planting, or carpeting a garden bed. They are particularly beautiful if sown in large drifts, but for a brilliant display group them together with other annuals like alyssum, lobelia, nemesia, poor man’s orchid, poppies and delphiniums. An added bonus is they will attract butterflies and bees to the garden.

Members can click here to read more about Bokbaai Vygies

Calendula Yellow. Picture courtesy Nu-Leaf NurseryCalendula

If it’s bright cheerful colour you like – go for Calendulas! Their dominant orange and yellow flowers demand attention, and will liven up the dreariest of garden corners.

Calendula is a satisfying choice for novice gardeners and children because it rewards quickly with generous crops of showy flowers. This fun and fast growing winter and spring flowering annual is easy to germinate and simple to care for, producing large, single or double flowers that last long in a vase. The clear, bright colours come in shades of orange to apricot-orange and golden to lemon-yellow. Both dwarf and tall strains are available, varying in height from 20 to 75cm tall, but the dwarf varieties are the most freely available in South Africa.

Calendula has many uses in cooking and medicinally, and is a renowned companion plant as it helps to keep plants growing nearby healthy. Sow them between your winter vegetable crops for a healthier and very pretty winter veggie patch. Sown in massed beds or as an edging plant alongside walkways, calendulas can put on quite a show. For containers, purchase trays of calendula seedlings and mix them with other winter annuals in pots, window boxes and hanging baskets for warm winter colour.

Members can click here to read more about Calendulas

Dianthus Diamond Mix. Picture courtesy Ball StraathofDianthus

Dianthus is an old-fashioned flower which has always been favoured by gardeners because it is a tough little annual with the most irresistible flowers. It’s also easy to grow and can be planted almost throughout the year in South Africa because it not only withstands our summer heat and heavy rainfall, but is also frost hardy. With a little TLC these little plants can bloom all season long.

The newer garden hybrids often have frilled or zigzag edges to their petals, and come in hues of salmon, pink, red, violet and white, and bi-colours. They are also available in lovely clear colours.

Pinks are excellent value for money, and their long flowering season makes them perfect to liven-up flower borders and rockeries. They are also essential in mixed containers like hanging baskets or window boxes. Pinks are cottage garden favourites, and the fragrant varieties are a ‘must have’ for scented gardens, mixed with roses, scented geraniums and lavender. Like their close relative the carnation, pinks are excellent cut flowers, and even though their stems are much shorter, they are delightful in small bouquets.

Members can click here to read more about Dianthus

English DaisyEnglish Daisy

In hot and sunny South Africa English daisies are grown in the cooler months, blooming continuously throughout winter and spring. They remain extremely popular not only for their charm but because they are unfussy and easy to grow. The plants are neat and compact, growing about 15 to 20cm tall, and they never fail to delight with their masses of tightly quilled, single, or double daisies which stand above the fresh, bright-green leaves. The blooms have cheerful yellow centres and come in shades of pink, white and rosy red.

Because they love moisture English daisies thrive in our winter rainfall regions, and in the cooler mist belt regions. They are superb edging plants for pathways and flower borders, and perfect companions for pansies and violas, inter-planted with winter and spring flowering bulbs like Dutch Iris, tulips or daffodils. An added bonus is that English daisies will attract butterflies to the garden, providing vital nectar when food is scarce.

Members can click here to read more about the English Daisy

Blue LobeliaLobelia

Lobelia can be grown almost throughout the year in South Africa and are semi-hardy to moderate frost. Lobelia is beloved around the world for its charm, and plant breeders have created garden hybrids which are even more prolific, producing a profusion of tiny flowers in delightful shades of blue, lilac, purple, pink, carmine and white. Some varieties have bronzy foliage and others bright green leaves. They vary slightly in height but the modern varieties are very compact and will grow about 15cm tall with a mounded habit. Water them regularly, especially in dry regions.

Lobelias are invaluable as edging plants and because of their dainty, compact growth, are perfect combined with bulbs and other winter flowering annuals. The cascading varieties produce billowing masses of flowers up to 30cm long and are favourites to mix with other plants in hanging baskets and containers. These easy-to-grow plants will attract butterflies and deserve a place in every garden, large or small. Keep the plants moist for best results.

Members can click here to read more about Lobelia

Nemesia Sundrops Mix. Picture courtesy Ball StraathofNemesia, Cape Jewels

Nemesias are one of those endearing little South African annuals that never fail to delight gardeners. The winter rainfall species bloom in winter and spring and the summer rainfall species flower in spring and early summer. Although all the wild species are delightful and many show great horticultural potential, only a few have been selected for breeding purposes, and due to extensive hybridization have produced a wonderful selection of garden varieties in gorgeous colours. Popular hybrids include: 'Carnival Mix' which blooms in winter and comes in hues of cream, yellow, orange, crimson, pink, and bi-colours; and ‘Sundrops Mix' which blooms late winter and spring and has a very diverse colour range of gold, orange, rose pink, and white.

All nemesias are amazing landscaping species for gardens small or large, and can be just as pretty planted in pots and hanging baskets as they are when used as an edging plant in mixed borders, or as fillers between larger plants and shrubs. Use them to add pops of colour in grassy gardens or rocky outcrops, and paired with alyssum, dianthus, stocks, pansies or violas, and winter and spring flowering bulbs, they put on an irresistible show. Plant drifts of these delightful little annuals, and you will never be able to imagine your garden without them again.

Members can click here to read more about Nemesias

Ornamental Kale. Picture courtesy Nu-Leaf NurseryOrnamental Kale

Ornamental cabbages look much the same as their edible cousins, but produce giant rosettes of frilly leaves in wonderful shades of lavender, rose; white, and creamy yellow, making them a favourite addition to cold winter gardens. The plants will grow about 20cm tall and 30cm wide, depending on the variety. The pigmentations for which these plants are known do not appear until after prolonged cool weather and several frosts.

Because these showy cabbages can hold their brilliant colour all the way into spring, they are ideal for displaying on porches, patios, beside entryways, or in garden beds. When massed in large beds they make a striking contrast to modern architecture. Be adventurous and try combining them with other flowering seedlings in pots and window boxes. They all make unusual additions to fresh flower arrangements and the taller growing varieties are especially sought after by florists for their long stems.

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Pansy Cool Wave. Picture courtesy Ball StraathofPansies & Violas

Pansies and violas are timeless winter and spring flowering favourites that never go out of fashion. They continue to inspire plant breeders to produce even more exciting garden varieties with exciting colours like the newer antique mixes, as well as gorgeous new bicolour combinations. Breeding is also focused on producing even more compact and floriferous plants. Grab a couple of trays of pansies and violas from you garden centre and plant them in a few key locations in the winter garden, they are worth their weight in gold!

Pansies and violas are easy to grow and perfect for pots, hanging basket, window boxes and containers of all kinds. They are charming when combined with spring flowering bulbs and also grow well with other winter and spring flowering annuals for full sun. Line the borders of the vegetable, flower or herb garden with them to attract bees and other valuable pollinators at a time when food is scarce.

Violas can take a bit more shade than pansies making them perfect for brightening up slightly more shady areas. Violas will also often re-seed themselves in the garden.

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Petunia Mixed. Picture courtesy Nu-Leaf NurseryPetunias

Petunias can be planted almost all year round in South Africa and are semi-hardy to moderate frost. Thousands of hybrids have been bred throughout the years and the flower colours, sizes and shapes vary greatly.  The different varieties vary in height and spread so check carefully before making your selection. The two oldest types of petunias are 'Grandifloras' and 'Multifloras' and both grow in a mound-like shape. Grandiflora varieties have larger flowers, but multiflora varieties with their smaller flowers hold up better in the rain. Petunias are so versatile in the garden because they are available in an outstanding array of colours varying from fiery reds, burgundy and purples, to all shades of pink, lilac, blue, yellow and white. The also bloom continuously all season with little maintenance.

Petunias make perfect centre pieces to mixed plantings in pots, hanging baskets and window boxes. They are excellent border plants and if planted in mass, will provide brilliant colour for months on end. Use the cascading varieties in containers and the compact varieties in the garden.

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Phlox '21st Century' Picture courtesy Nu-Leaf NurseryPhlox

Phlox can be grown almost throughout the year in South Africa but grow best in the cooler seasons. In hot and humid regions plant them when the weather cools down in autumn. They are hardy to all but severe frost, and grow well throughout the country as long as they can be watered regularly. The latest varieties are both free-flowering and compact growing. The flowers are fragrant and splendid for cutting, and the large clusters of delicate blooms come in many pastel and bright shades of red, pink, coral, blue, lilac, purple white and even yellow. Some varieties have beautiful fringed, star-shaped petals with a white edge.

The new compact varieties will grow quickly to about 25cm tall and 20cm wide, and these low-growing plants look gorgeous if massed together in annual flowerbeds and along walkways. They also grow easily in containers of all shapes and sizes.

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Schizanthus Picture courtesy Nu-Leaf NurseryPoor Man's Orchid

These unforgettable natives of Chile form dense bushes of feathery foliage which is smothered in a profusion of butterfly-like flowers in winter and spring. These annuals grow well throughout South Africa, except for those areas that experience severe frost. They are wonderful cut-flowers with an infinite range of patterns and colours; from pink, blue, violet, lavender, magenta, white, yellow, orange, gold, red and salmon. Hybrid plants vary in height from 20 to 40cm tall.

Poor Man's Orchids make excellent border plants to the winter flower garden and because they bloom best when their roots are restricted they grow exceptionally well in containers, so fill your window boxes and pots with them for a dazzling display.

Members can click here to read more about Poor Man's Orchid

Iceland PoppyIceland Poppies

Iceland Poppies are old-time favourites that are easy to grow and will brighten up even the coldest winter day. They are available in bright and pastel shades of red, pink, yellow, orange, cream and white, as well as bicoloured varieties. There are several varieties like ‘Champagne Bubbles’ which is available in mixed and single colours.

Iceland poppies attract butterflies to the garden and combine beautifully with most winter flowering annuals, and make a fantastic backdrop for spring flowering bulbs. Try planting them in drifts, inter-planted with pansies or violas in complimentary or contrasting colours, for a brilliant display. They are wonderful in meadow and cottage gardens and also do well in containers with other annuals. Iceland poppies are sought after cut flowers and the more you pick them, the more they bloom! 

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Antirrhinum Dwarf Mixed. Picture courtesy Nu-Leaf NurserySnapdragons

Snapdragons never go out of fashion because they are reliable and easy to grow.  They can be grown throughout the year in most regions of South Africa, but they prefer growing during the cooler months. The flowers of modern strains come in almost every colour or bicolour, including red, bronze, yellow, orange, pink, purple, cream, and white.

Snaps have long been a favourite garden play-thing of children, and are highly recommended for a child’s garden. Taller growing types are wonderful planted in large swathes in mixed flower borders, and the dwarf varieties make excellent edging plants and are perfect in pots. No matter their height, the upright growth habit of snapdragons adds vertical contrast to garden beds and pots, and their vast colour palette allows you to mix them effortlessly with other flowering annuals and bulbs for a long-lasting effect. Try planting them between spring flowering bulbs like daffodils, ranunculus, anemone, or sparaxis with a border of pansies and violas in front for a beautiful effect.

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Stocks Picture courtesy Nu-leaf NurseryStocks

Stocks are among our oldest and most dearly-loved garden flowers, grown for their sweet perfume at night, and handsome cut-flowers in shades of pink, mauve, crimson, purple, cream, yellow, peach and white. They are grown throughout South Africa in winter and spring. There are both dwarf and tall varieties available, ranging in height from 30 to 70cm tall.

Stocks are invaluable in the flower border and the dwarf varieties are easy-to-grow in containers. Plant them near the house, underneath windows, along walkways, and in containers on patios where their perfume can be enjoyed. Double-flowered stocks are prized by gardeners for their floral display but are sterile and have to be produced from single varieties. Therefore, stocks do not always produce double flowers but modern strains produce doubles in high proportions of 60% or even 80%

Members can click here to read more about Stocks

Sweetpeas Picture courtesy Nu-Leaf NurserySweet Pea

Sweet peas have a long history but are certainly not considered to be old fashioned, and today they are as lovely and rewarding as ever. New ever more enchanting and fragrant cultivars are continually being released, and today sweet peas are available in a mind-blowing selection of single and mixed colours ranging from almost black to pink, blue, lilac, purple, red, white, and all the shades in-between. In fact they are available in almost every conceivable colour, except for the ever elusive yellow.

Sweet peas grow well throughout South Africa and are generally pretty hardy to frost. However, in extremely cold regions where the weather remains cool during spring and early summer, the late flowering varieties are sown, or trays of seedling are planted out in spring to flower in early summer. In the winter rainfall regions they are wonderful water-wise additions. In subtropical regions the key to growing sweet peas is to purchase a variety that will bloom before the summer heat sets in. Look out for varieties that say ‘early flowering’ or ‘early multiflora’.

Sweet peas are lovely cut flowers, spreading their heady scent throughout the garden and home, and the more you pick them, the more they bloom. Climbing sweet peas can be grown anywhere they have some support, knee-high’s are great in the middle of a winter and spring flower border, and dwarf varieties are perfect border plants and fabulous in pots, window boxes and hanging, pairing well with many winter and spring flowering annuals and bulbs.

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Virginian Stocks Virginian Stocks

Virginian stocks are delightful little annuals that deserve a place in every winter and spring garden. They are very hardy, grow throughout the country, and are probably one of the easiest of all annuals to grow from seed sown directly into garden beds.

This delightful little annual deserves a place in every winter and spring garden. Not only does it flower profusely in delightful shades of pink, rose red, lilac, and creamy-white, it also smells heavenly. Virginian stocks germinate readily and grow quickly to produce small bushes about 20 to 30cm tall and 10 to 15cm wide.

To be really effective in the garden Virginian stocks need to be sown in mass, and go perfectly with all spring-time bloomers, especially bulbs. Try sowing them on top of taller bulbs like daffodils or Dutch Iris for a stunning effect. They also pair well with poppies and other taller spring flowers in borders, along pathways, and even in the crevices between paving stones and rocks. Virginian stocks are also perfect to soe between dormant roses, and they blend beautifully with night scented stocks for brightness and a heady fragrance. Because of its rapid growth and appealing fragrance, children love to sow the tiny seeds and watch them grow, so if you see seed packets for sale, grab a few!

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Click here to read under Trees

Garcinia livingstonei Fruit. Picture courtesy Imbe 063 from flickrDescription:

Garcinia livingstonei goes by many common names, including: African Mangosteen, Afrika-geelmelkhout, umPhimbi, uGobandlovu, mmimbi, mokongono, mokononga

In East Africa the African Mangosteen (Garcinia livingstonei) can mature into a small or large tree ranging between 18m to 25m tall. It has a twisted trunk and most young branches come out at right angles to the stem. These young branches are thick and woody, and contain yellow to red resin.

The stem is dark-brown or nearly black with flaking bark. Old bark is dark-grey, but the overall impression is of a light yellow-grey. The inner bark contains concentrated yellow, sticky, bitter latex.

The tough and leathery dark green-blue leaves have whitish veins and generally come out in whorls of three. They can be variable in shape but are usually egg or lance-shaped.

Anytime from August to February clusters of scented greenish-white or yellow flowers appear in the leaf axils on old wood. Both male and bisexual flowers are produced, each with a different structure. Male flowers resemble pincushions and bisexual flowers are green with shiny ovaries.

The fruits are bright orange and about 5cm across. The thin skin is smooth and glossy and separates easily from the flesh to reveal a layer of orange pulp surrounding the 1 or 2 seeds enclosed in a hard coating. The edible flesh contains a yellow-orange juice that is sticky but pleasant, with a sweet to acid taste. The unripe pulp can contain latex.

Ecology

The flowers are full of nectar, which attracts many kinds of insects that pollinate them. The leaves are very palatable to game and the plants are usually heavily browsed.

The delicious fruits are sought after by animals, which disperse the seeds. The seeds are enclosed in a hard coat, well suited to protecting the delicate embryo on its journey through the digestive system of the animal that ate the fruit.

History & Interesting Facts:

African Mangosteen Picture courtesy Ton Rulkens from flickrThe genus Garcinia includes some 200 species which occur mainly in Asia. The name commemorates Laurent Garcin (1683-1751), a French botanist who was active in India, where the genus is particularly diverse. The specific epithet ‘livingstonei’ honours the explorer David Livingstone (1813-1873), who made one of the first records of the tree.

Mangosteen species are found in the Sunda Island (Brunei, East Timor, Indonesia and Malaysia) and the Moluccas or Spice Islands (Indonesia) in tropical Asia. They were spread to the Philippines, Burma and India, and further to other parts of the world. In 1789 Mangosteens were introduced to England, and seedlings were introduced to Australia in 1854. And today mangosteens can be found growing throughout the tropics.

Where are African Mangosteens grown commercially?

Most of the commercial production of mangosteens occurs in Southeast Asia in Indonesia, Mayaysia, the Phillipines; and Thailand which is the major producer in this region.

The African Mangosteen is also grown commercially in Costa Rica, Honduras, Panama, Peru, Colombia, Brazil, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and Australia.

Where is the African Mangosteen native to?

The African mangosteen is widespread in the warmer parts of Africa, and can be found growing wild in Angola, Botswana, Burkina, Cameroon, Caprivi Strip, Comoros, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Kenya, KwaZulu-Natal, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Northern Provinces, Senegal, Somalia, Swaziland, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, Zaïre, Zimbabwe.

In South Africa the tree is protected and is National Tree List No: 486, and it spreads from just north of Durban to quite far up into the Limpopo and Zambezi Valleys.

Varieties:

There are some varieties that have smaller seeds and more pulp, but no named varieties or selections are available at local nurseries. Superior varieties can be grafted onto seedling rootstocks and this is the method most people use to get earlier fruiting.

Medicinal:

The plant is used traditionally in the treatment of diarrhoea, and today research is being undertaken on Garcinia livingstonei and we know that it contains various chemical constituents belonging to biflavonoids, benzophenones and xanthones. It is reported to possess beneficial pharmacological activities as anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial, anti-viral and cytotoxicity.

Garcinia livingstonei is used in traditional medicine to treat variety of diseases including diarrhoea, diabetes, parasitic infections, microbial infections, and other ailments.

Health Benefits:

The fruit pulp is a good source of carbohydrates, iron and zinc. It also contains Protein, Potassium, Magnesium, Vitamin C, Vitamin B2 and Vitamin B3.

In the Kitchen:

Mangosteen fruit is consumed fresh, or fermented into a pleasant alcoholic beverage.  It can also be canned, frozen or processed into juice, jam preserve, and syrup.

Once the seeds are removed, the flesh can be sundried and stored like a pitted prune.

In the Garden:

The African mangosteen deserves a place in any warm, subtropical garden.

Because the tree grows slowly, it grows well in a pot and remains manageable in small gardens for a long time. Young plants are pyramidal in shape and can be used for many years as a fascinating and beautiful evergreen shrub.

With time it can grow to 5 to 10 m high with a spread of 5m. The form of the tree resembles a piece of angular modern sculpture, and the leaves are an almost unique shade of deep blue-green. The fruits are memorably delightful for gardeners, birds, game and other wildlife.

Cultivation:

Garcinia livingstonei What is the best climate for the African Mangosteen?

The African mangosteen is widespread in the warmer parts of Africa. It grows well in warm and humid environment.

In its range temperature is a unifying feature, and the tree flourishes in areas like the Lowveld and KwaZulu-Natal where winters (as far as they exist) are warm and summers are hot to very hot.

Can the African Mangosteen tolerate cold?

This tree is notably sensitive to cold and cannot tolerate temperatures below 5°C. And if temperatures drop below 20°C growth slows down.

What are the soil requirements for growing African Mangosteen?

In the wild trees are found on sandy or dry rocky sites as well as in coastal areas where the soils vary from deep sands to heavily alluvial soils along riverbanks. Sandy alluvial soils are unsuitable and sand low in humus contribute to low yields.

Alluvial soils are soils deposited by surface water. You'll find them along rivers, in floodplains and deltas, stream terraces, and areas called ‘alluvial fans’. Alluvial soil is one of the best soils, requiring the least water due to its high porosity. The consistency of alluvial soils ranges from drift sand to rich loamy soils and silt clays.

The trees thrive in slightly acidic, deep, porous soils rich in organic matter and nutrients, and where there is good drainage.

The plants do not grow well in very alkaline soil that has a high pH, where they may develop nutritional deficiencies, particularly zinc.

How much water does the African Mangosteen require?

In its natural range the African mangosteen encounters widely varying rainfall from about 200 to 1000mm a year.  However, they grow best in regions where there is well distributed rainfall throughout the year with an annual rainfall of 1000 to 1200mm.

Young, and newly planted trees must be watered regularly, but be careful of overwatering as standing water over the roots can kill the plant.

Potted plants will need more frequent watering than those growing in the ground.

Mulching will keep the soil moist for longer and also help to keep down the weeds. Never place mulch up against the stems of plants.

Is the African Mangosteen drought hardy?

Although established trees can tolerate dry seasons of as long as five months with ease, dry periods of more than 15 days can have a negative impact on yield.

How to fertilise the African Mangosteen

To ensure goof fruit production fertilise your trees every three to four months with a complete fruit tree fertiliser. Young trees can be fed more often to speed up growth.

Container plants also do better if fed on a regular basis.

Harvesting and Storing:

Most trees will take around 4 to 6 years before they start bearing fruit. In South Africa, this fruiting period occurs between November–February. Ripening typically happens over a two-week period and then is finished for the year.

Ripeness is gauged by the full development of colour and a slight softening of fruit. Harvesting may be done when the fruits are slightly under-ripe; however, they must be fully mature or they will not ripen after picking.

Pick the fruit gently by hand or by means of a cutting pole as it bruises easily. Ripe fruits can be kept for 3 to 4 weeks in a cool place. 

Propagation:

Trees are easily propagated by seed, but because of their slow growth, it usually takes five to six years to reach fruiting age.

Sow into trays or small pots in good, well-drained soil and keep in a shady position. The seeds sprout in one or two weeks and must be watered three to four times a week.

The percentage of seed germination is directly related to the weight of the seed, fully developed seeds should be chosen for planting.

The seedlings grow very slowly taking up to two years before they can be transplanted into the ground.

Problems, Pests & Diseases

Healthy trees are relatively free of pests and diseases.

Fruit Flies

During the fruiting period fruit flies may become a problem in some years.

Fruit flies emerge in early summer, so you need to start spraying, putting out fruit fly bait stations, or both, every two weeks throughout spring and summer. This is especially important if the weather remains warm and sunny.

Gardeners can monitor fruit fly by using fruit fly traps, and commercial pheromone traps are available at cooperatives. Pheromones are chemical compounds that are produced and secreted and that influence the behaviour and development of other members of the same species. Chemical control pesticides registered specifically for baiting stations are available at garden centres.

An environmentally friendly product by Efekto: Eco Fruit Fly Bait GF-120 is excellent for baiting stations. It consists of a plant protein and sugar formulation with Spinosad as the active ingredient. Spinosad is derived from a soil organism, making GF-120 one of the safest pesticide products available.

Various sprays are also available for fruit fly like Neem. Its active ingredient is Azadirachtin from neem seeds and it is used to control a wide range of insects (up to 200 insect types).

Leaf Caterpillar

In the larval stage the leaf caterpillar feeds on young leaves and shoots, and in young trees or if populations are high, the caterpillars may eat all the leaves and even cause the death of the tree.

Regular applications of registered insecticides, like Margaret Roberts Biological Caterpillar Insecticide are essential to control this pest.

Leaf Miner

Leaf miner larvae feed on young shoots. The larvae tunnels in the epidermis, and if left untreated may cause the death of the tree. These can be controlled by registered insecticides that contain Bacillus thuringiensi, like Margaret Roberts Biological Caterpillar Insecticide.

Fruit Borer

The larvae of the fruit borer burrow into the fruit to feed and grow before moving out of the fruit and pupating into the soil to become beetles. These can be controlled by destroying all the affected fruits.

Stem Canker

The disease infects branches and stems. The leaves of the infected trees wilt and drop; causing the tree to die-off. Infected trees should be eradicated and burned to stop the spread of the disease.