Online Reporter
Andrew Mangwarara
IN greening initiatives, nothing is more inspiring than a scene featuring a grouping of msasa trees in the setting sun, with the sound of insects being heard in the background.
We possess a rich heritage of indigenous trees, which is, however, under threat. Exotic species dominate, even along our city streets.
In our new, emerging towns, and in the spirit of devolution, indigenous trees must be planted on a large scale if we are to preserve this heritage, especially in light of the fast-disappearing forests.
Let us look at some of the trees that we can plant to transform our landscapes.
Acacias (eg acacia abyssinica or Nyanga flat top; acacia xanthophloea or fever tree) are among them. These are relics of note. They can transform any landscape where they are planted. However, the fever tree needs a swampy place to thrive; it will eventually die if water becomes scarce.
We also have the albizia species (albizia gummifera or smooth-bark flat crown; albizia schimperiana or large-podded albizia). This is another great group.
The only disadvantage of both trees is their 30-metre height.
The Natal mahogany (trichilia emetica) is a good shade tree. It, however, needs regular pruning to keep its size in check.
The Kenyan croton (croton megalocarpon) is one of the most commonly preferred trees. It grows to a reasonable height and will suit many garden situations. It is just a little bit messy when its seeds mature and drop everywhere.
There is also the sausage tree (Kigelia africana). It is a good, medium-sized tree. It is quite attractive when it produces both large pods and flowers. But its root system can lift pavements and its large fruit can easily damage a car when it falls, so it cannot be used in car parks.
The African walnut (schotia brachypetala) is considered a good and attractive ornamental tree. It attracts birds because of its nectar-rich flowers. This medium-sized tree can transform any green space.
The orchid tree (bauhinia variegata) is one of the few trees that was commonly used on roadsides. This small-sized tree produces attractive, orchid-like flowers. It is highly recommended as a garden tree.
We cannot entirely leave out the fig species (ficus spp).
However, they will only do well in large gardens due to their very invasive root systems and large size. Try the ficus ingens, ficus craterostoma or ficus sycomorus.
In conclusion, let us consider the combretum and diospyros genera.
They are of small to medium size, making them excellent for small garden projects.
Indeed, a lot needs to be done by relevant stakeholders to formulate legislation that promotes indigenous flora rather than maintaining the status quo, a situation that will come to haunt us in the not-so-distant future.
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