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🌳Trees are essential components of the environment, providing benefits to ecosystems and human well-being. However, what exactly is a tree? Simply put, a tree is a woody perennial plant with a single main stem or trunk, typically growing to a considerable height and bearing lateral branches. In his book 'What's That Tree?', Eugene Moll defines a tree as a free-standing woody plant that generally reaches a height of 3-4 meters and has a girth of at least 100mm (about the length of the long edge of a credit card) at chest height.
One of the key benefits of having trees is their ability to produce oxygen through photosynthesis, which is essential for all living organisms. They act as carbon sinks by absorbing pollutants to help mitigate climate change. Trees provide habitats for wildlife and food for birds and small animals such as squirrels, offer shade and cooling effects, reduce noise pollution, and enhance the overall aesthetics of an area.
In gardens, trees can offer several advantages. They can increase property value, provide privacy, reduce energy costs by providing shade in the summer and windbreaks in the winter, and create a tranquil and attractive outdoor space. However, there are also some disadvantages to consider. Trees can be costly to maintain, shed leaves, and damage pipes and foundations.
It is imperative to consider numerous factors when buying or growing a tree. When selecting a tree, choose one with a straight trunk, evenly spaced branches, and a healthy root system. Avoid trees with signs of disease, pest infestation, or damage. When choosing a tree, ensure it will fit comfortably in your yard without overcrowding or causing obstruction when it reaches maturity. The size of your yard does matter when choosing a tree, as you will need to select a species that fits the space available and will not overgrow the area as it grows.
By carefully selecting and planting trees, we can enhance our surroundings, improve air quality, and create a healthier and more sustainable environment for future generations.
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Name of a tree
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Size
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Aspect
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Unique features
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Brachylaena discolor
Coast silver oak
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4 – 10 m
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Shade, full sun
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Evergreen
Drought resistant
Medicinal and cultural uses
Excellent bee tree
Non-invasive root system
Ideal for coastal, parks and school gardens
Makes an excellent hedge or windbreak. |
Combretum kraussii
forest bushwillow
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7 –9 m
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Shade, full sun
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Semi-deciduous
Drought resistant
Can tolerate heavy clay soil
Minimal waste (leaf /fruit shedding)
Non-invasive root system
Good screening tree
Medicinal plant
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Curtisia dentata
Assegaai tree
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15 m
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Full sun
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Evergreen
Coastal tolerance
Ideal for hedge/screen
Attracts birds
Wind tolerance
Suitable for a small garden
Suitable to plant indoors
Medicinal plant
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Dovyalis caffra
Kei apple
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2 – 5 m
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Full sun or semi-shade
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Evergreen
Drought resistant
Attracts birds and butterflies
Edible plant
Makes an excellent security hedge or windbreak.
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Ekebergia capensis
Cape ash
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15 m
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Full sun
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Evergreen
Edible plant
Drought resistant
Attracts birds & butterflies
Used to make furniture
Medicinal plant |
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