Sunday, 7 August 2022

Dovyalis caffra as a security hedge


Security is a basic need for human beings. This is why many homeowners have high walls to enhance their security. For a natural or softer look, we are recommending Dovyalis caffra (Kei-apple) as a natural solution and a security hedge plant.

Description of Dovyalis caffra
Dovyalis caffra is a spiny shrub or small spiny tree with oval waxy light green leaves and it grows 3 - 5 metres in height. It is tough and evergreen. The spines grow up to 60 mm. Between November and December, small fragrant cream-green coloured flowers appear followed by large, rounded apricot-coloured fruits. 

What are the benefits of having Dovyalis caffra in your garden?
Dovyalis caffra offers the benefit of both worlds: security and food for garden visitors such as insects, honeybees, butterflies, and birds.The apricot-coloured fruits are edible and make an excellent jelly or jam. The shrub itself is used in many parts of the world as a hedge plant. When planted in a row it will grow into a loose-textured hedge that offers natural security. It can be trimmed or pruned to keep it neat. Kei-apple spiny nature makes it drought-resistant, adaptable, and forms a virtually impenetrable hedge.

Where can you plant Dovyalis caffra?
This small tree requires full sun and prefers well-drained soil with plenty of compost but can tolerate clay soil. It is ideal as a windbreaker. It is recommended that you plant it 1 m apart in alternating, double rows for maximum effect as a security hedge. Due to its growth form Dovyalis caffra is suitable for small gardens, can be planted in a pot and also be used as a bonsai specimen.

🦋Let's grow more plants and create mini nature reserves.🦋



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