The Wild Plum is one of South Africa’s most versatile indigenous trees; tough and attractive. For Western Cape homeowners, it offers the rare combination of fast shade, ornamental value, and edible fruit. But like all strong growers, it comes with caveats. Planted correctly, it’s a long-term asset. Planted poorly, it can cause headaches. Here’s what you need to know about the Wild Plum ( Harpephyllum caffrum ). What is the Wild Plum? The Wild Plum ( Harpephyllum caffrum ) is

Trees are living systems, quietly holding your property, your water, and your biodiversity together. But no tree is invincible. The health of any tree depends on a chain of factors that begins in the soil, continues in its earliest seed stage, and carries through its life cycle with pruning, disease resistance, and care. When one part of this chain weakens, the whole system suffers. For homeowners in the Western Cape, understanding this chain is critical. The wrong soil can s

The Real Yellowwood ( Podocarpus latifolius ) is South Africa’s national tree and one of the most recognisable indigenous evergreens in the country. With a long lifespan, upright structure, and dark green foliage, it is valued in both natural forests and cultivated landscapes.  In the Western Cape, it is suitable for large gardens, formal avenues, and ecological plantings where long-term canopy cover is needed. Botanical Profile Scientific name : Podocarpus latifolius Common

The White Milkwood (Sideroxylon inerme) is a protected heritage tree in South Africa, deeply rooted in our history, law, and coastal ecology. In the Western Cape, you’re a custodian, not just an owner: permits are required for major pruning or removal. Slow-growing, water-wise and wind-hardy, it offers dense evergreen shade, boosts biodiversity, and becomes a legacy feature in any coastal garden.

Climate change in the Western Cape isn’t a distant threat. It’s here. Droughts, heatwaves, soil erosion, and biodiversity loss are already reshaping our landscapes. But while the headlines focus on solar panels and water restrictions, one of the most powerful solutions stands quietly outside our doors: trees. Trees are more than shade or scenery. They’re frontline climate defenders, biodiversity anchors, and natural infrastructure. This guide unpacks how trees protect our reg

Keurboom tree showing off its pink spring flowers. If you own property in the Western Cape, chances are you’ve seen a Keurboom in full flower. Covered in mauve-pink blossoms, it’s one of the most striking indigenous trees in spring. But behind the beauty lies a practical truth: the Keurboom is a pioneer species.  That means it grows quickly, restores soil, and creates habitat, but it’s not built to last forever. For the conscious homeowner, this tree can be both a blessing an

The Waterberry ( Syzygium cordatum ) is one of South Africa’s most versatile indigenous trees; graceful, practical, and rich in...