Online Reporter
Andrew Mangwarara
EVERY year, around this time, October, a popular tree blooms ahead of the rainy season.
That tree is none other than the jacaranda mimosifolia, popularly known as the jacaranda.
Though it originates from South America, it has become naturalised in most parts of Central and Southern Africa.
When it comes to greening a space, trees are the backbone of any garden or landscape, so choosing a good species is a must.
Let us explore the pros and cons of selecting the jacaranda as a greening option.
This tree, reaching up to 20 metres in height, is deciduous, which means it will not be green for a large part of the year.
Aesthetically, it is a good shade tree, producing beautiful purple blooms in spring that last up to two months, until the rains cause them to drop.
The jacaranda has been widely grown in many parts of the world as a sturdy tree, suitable even for street lining or for shade.
The only aesthetic drawback is the amount of litter it generates, making it a high-maintenance tree for lawns.
Jacaranda mimosifolia has become invasive around the world, even to the extent of pushing out native species.
This is much to the detriment of natural ecosystems, resulting in the loss of biodiversity.
In South Africa, the tree has been banned because of its incursive traits, joining a group of many invasive species like the lantana camara or the syringa tree. Given its aggressive nature, its continued use in our national greening efforts really needs to be reviewed.
I still have some reservations about growing jacaranda as a landscaping tree since it will usually take over any area it grows in.
It needs to be kept well in check.
For now, let us enjoy the magnificent blooms that currently line most streets of Harare.
Let the purple glow satisfy your senses.
It is unfortunate that the colour is with us for a short time.
To grow jacaranda, you can easily raise it from seed or collect seedlings that are readily found when the rains come.
If you would like to be featured in our green-up campaign, contact us on the number provided above. Feedback: [email protected] or [email protected]
Bongani Ndlovu