Plant Care Guides / Outdoor & Coastal / Trees
Indigenous (endemic, classified as Vulnerable) | Easy Care | Small tree / large shrub
This is a rare and special plant. The Pondo water berry is endemic to a small stretch of the Eastern Cape and southern KwaZulu-Natal coast, and it is classified as Vulnerable in the wild. In the garden, though, it is a gem: a neat, naturally rounded, evergreen shrub or small tree with glossy dark green leaves, striking reddish new growth, masses of fluffy white flowers in early summer, and plum-coloured berries in autumn that bring every bird in the neighbourhood to your garden.
It is water-wise once established, handles coastal conditions well, and stays compact without much pruning, which makes it ideal for smaller St Francis Bay gardens. If you can find one at a specialist nursery, grab it.
1 to 3 m tall, naturally compact and rounded.
Slow. This is a patient gardener's tree, but its year-round good looks make the wait worthwhile.
Feature shrub, rockery, wildlife garden, small garden specimen, container plant on a patio.
Full sun for the best flowering and fruiting. Tolerates light shade, though it may become less dense.
Well-drained soil. It grows naturally along rocky streambeds, so sharp drainage suits it. Add compost to sandy soil to give it a good start.
Water regularly while establishing, especially in summer. Once settled, it is water-wise and copes well between rains, though a drink during extended dry spells keeps it looking its best.
Feed in spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser while young. Mature plants in reasonable soil need little.
Minimal. It holds a naturally neat, rounded shape. Prune only to remove dead wood or to shape if needed.
Ask about availability. We keep a changing range of trees and large shrubs. WhatsApp us to check what is currently in stock, or visit the nursery and we will help you choose the right tree for your spot.
