Damaging protected trees a crime

CONTRAVENTION of a declaration placing the 2013 indigenous trees of the year under protection – the Barringtonia racemosa (powderpuff), Grewia occidentials (cross-berry) and Virgilia oroboides (blossom tree) – could see perpetrators slapped with a fine or three years imprisonment, or even both.

Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Tina Joemat-Pettersson announced the declaration during Arbour Week, which prohibits a person from cutting, disturbing, damaging or destroying any of these trees without a licence.

This year’s Arbour Week was celebrated under the theme ‘ Our Forests – Our Future’ and focused on greening the country for environmental conservation and development, tree planting and highlighting the important role of trees and forests in addressing food security.

According to Meerensee garden enthusiast, Eileen Russell, the cross berry and powder puff flourish well in Richards Bay.

The Richards Bay Garden Club member said both trees are indigenous to the area and well suited to our climate.

‘Cross berry attract insects and birds love their berries.

‘When this tree is young it is floppy and will lean against its neighbour, however after a few years the trunk becomes quite sturdy.

‘Powder puffs are found in many Meerensee gardens. This beautiful mangrove tree is easily recognised by its large leaves with the delicate white flowers dangling prettily, and guava-like fruit that hang in long racemes.

‘They are mainly a coastal species that thrive under very humid, moist conditions,’ she said.

Indigenous tree fundi Suzi Raymond says indigenous trees are a great option for planting as they are low maintenance.

She suggests that when planting trees on residential properties, smaller trees with good form are best for suburban gardens, unless they are more than an acre in size.

‘Trees with aggressive root systems such as the ficus species and strelitsias, should not be planted near buildings or paving,’ she added