Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Euclea natalensis - Natal Guarri

The Euclea natalensis, or Natal Guarri as it is commonly known is an interesting and attractive small to medium shrub/tree. It occurs predominantly within riverine forest however it can be found in a variety of habitats and is therefore a versatile specimen that can be successfully used within a landscape. Much research has been conducted to uncover the full extent of the incredible medicinal benefits this little tree has to offer and extensive studies are currently underway to establish the best growing method which will enable fast-growth while retaining optimum chemical property levels.

BASIC TREE DETAILS

Botanical Name: Euclea natalensis
Common Name : Natal Guarri
Genus: Ebenaceae
RSA National Tree No’ : 597

LANDSCAPING USES

E.natalensis makes the ideal specimen for use either singly, or as a cluster within landscapes where a forest, woodland or subtropical look and feel is intended.

TREE SPECIFICATIONS

Height: Typically 2-7m although the Natal Guarri can reach 12m in ideal conditions
Spread: Spreading crown with rather drooping branches. 2-5m wide
Deciduous/Evergreen: Evergreen
Growth Habit: E.natalensis can be found in a variety of habitats from arid areas to bushveld, woodland, riverine forests, on termite mounds, among rocks and on koppies.
Bark: The bark of young specimens is white to pale grey which darkens, roughens and fissures with age.
Foliage : The leaves are elliptic or oblanceolate-oblong reaching anything between 3.5-12.5 cm in length by 1.5-5.7 cm in width. Leaves are glossy dark green on top while the underside of leaves is pale green and densely covered with rust coloured woolly hairs.
Flowers: Small, sweetly scented, greenish-white flowers (May-January) are borne in profusion on branched beads. All parts except the petals are, like the underside of the leaves, covered with dense rust-coloured hairs.
Fruit: The E.natalensis bears spherical fruits from October to June.
Seed: Each seed is 7-10 mm in diameter and turns from red to black when ripe. The seeds attract numerous bird species.

GROWING REQUIREMENTS

Growing regions: Occurs along the Eastern seaboard from Port Elizabeth extending north as far as Mozambique and inland towards Swaziland, Botswana and Zimbabwe.
Growing conditions: E.natalensis grows best in a sunny position with moderate water.
Best season: Spring - Autumn
Hardiness: The Natal Guarri withstands moderate drought and frost.
Propagation: Easily propagated from seed.
Growth rate: Slow-medium

INTERESTING FEATURES

Many Euclea species are widely gathered by indigenous people because of their medicinal properties. Roots of these plant species are frequently used to treat respiratory complications such as chest pains, bronchitis, pleurisy and asthma. Ground root powder is topically applied in cases of leprosy and is used by some ethnic groups to treat toothache and headache. The roots are also famed to produce a distinctive black dye.

Spectacular Monthly Tree - April 2009

The Celtis sinensis, or ‘Japanese Hackberry’ as it is commonly known is a spectacular, fast growing tree ideal for creating shade or planting as an avenue or border. The Japanese Hackberry will grow in a variety of habitats from moist, fertile soils to hot, dry locations in full sun. It is wind and drought tolerant once established but requires regular pruning whilst it is young to ensure a good strong structure is developed.

Botanical Name: Celtis sinensis
Common Name: Japanese Hackberry
Size Available: 200kg
Quantity in Stock: 60
Average Tree Height: 4.0m
Average Trunk Thickness: 7cm

Should you require any further information, such as pricing details or should you wish to place an order, please contact Rudi on 082 829 5543 or Leske on 072 385 0270. Alternatively you are welcome to email us with your enquiry at
info@treeco.co.za

April 2009 - Look how we have grown!

The images below have been taken of the entrance to our nursery - just one of the areas into which we have extended the area to grow our trees. The first one was taken in the June/July last year - see how soggy the ground looks! The second one was taken shortly after in spring. We have extended the nursery to flank each side of this entrance area and have re-channeled the water run-off area that caused this area to be so water-logged and unusable.












Before - during winter & during spring















The new entrance photographed recently - see bagged trees behind avenue trees on either side.















Our selection of 1000lt trees has increased substantially!


















Unless you are standing right next to our trees, it can be difficult to imagine just how big they are!

April 2009 - Super discounts available with the TreeCo ‘Open Month’

Many of our older clients will already know that TreeCo has worked very hard to successfully grow both the selection and stockholding of trees that we are able to supply. Since our inception in 1998, TreeCo has virtually doubled in size and we never forget that it is because of he continued support from our loyal customers that we have been able to enjoy such phenomenal growth – so thank you all for your valued support!

To celebrate our most recent expansion phase of the nursery, Rudi and Leske would like to invite all new and existing clients to visit TreeCo during our April ‘Open Month’.

Come and join us for not only a cup of Rudi & Leske’s (virtually famous!) coffee and a look around the nursery, but also a fantastic 10% discount on any trees that you purchase on the day of your visit. To make your visit even more worthwhile, TreeCo will be extending our offer by providing you with a further 10% on each additional order you place with us during the month of April.

Please contact either Rudi on 082 829 5543 or Leske on 072 385 0270 the day before you would like to visit us so that we can ensure that we are available to show you around. To download our clear, simple Map and Directions please visit our website
www.treeco.co.za.