Welcome wildlife into your garden with these indigenous plants
This is the fourth article in a four-part series on indigenous plants that make ideal alternatives to common exotic plants.
Jane Troughton of the Durban North Conservancy and Enviro Fixers has put together a pamphlet of the worst invaders in Durban North. In a four part series, she will highlight common alien invasive plants and suggest indigenous alternatives to grow which will attract birds and butterflies to your garden. To request a pamphlet which has colour images and protocols for removing alien plants, email Troughton via: janetroughton.mjt@gmail.com.
Alien: Indian shot (Canna indica)
“To remove this alien plant, wait for a good soaking rain and then hand pull and destroy the rhizomes,” said Troughton.
Alternative: African Gladiolus (Gladiolus dalenii)
“This is possibly our most striking Gladioli. Gladiolus species are popular garden plants, cultivated in Europe for more than 250 years and renowned for their striking, colourful flowers. Not many people know these plants were grown from hybrids of our indigenous gladioli. They are pollinated by sunbirds attracted to the copious nectar. The corms are eaten by bush pigs,” said Troughton.
Alternative: Falling Stars (Crocosmia aurea)
“Plant these bright orange beauties is swathes amongst grasses or grass-like plants as they die back after flowering. They put on a spectacular show so very rewarding. Also very good for the vase,” said Troughton.
Another great alternative is the indigenous red-hot pokers (Kniphofia species) which are irresistible to sunbirds and other insect eating birds.
Alien: White or Common Mulberry (Morus alba)
Troughton said this plant is well known as the larval host plant for the larvae of the Silk Moth.
“Unfortunately, this Asian tree has its fruit scattered far and wide by our wildlife and outcompetes our indigenous species. If you want to be the local canteen for many bird species, indigenous alternatives that offer delicious fruits,” she said.
Alternative: Wild Muberry (Trimeria grandifolia)
“This shrub or small tree does well in semi-shade. It is easily grown from seed and brings the beautiful African Leopard butterfly into our gardens as it the host food plant,” said Troughton.
Another alternative is Tassel- berry (Antidesma venosum), a semi-deciduous plant that grows to about eight meters high.
“In addition to being browsed by birds, humans and monkeys it has strong wood used for construction and used medicinally for stomach complaints,” said Troughton.
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