LIFESTYLE NEWS - Although not often considered container subjects, trees, when planted in pots, can be used to soften and green areas such as balconies, patios and courtyards where there’s no soil to plant in.
Use them to frame a doorway, provide a little shade and even as screening. They can also help to minimise the effect of high boundary walls.
For the tree to grow well, it must have a large container (with drainage holes) that can comfortably accommodate the root system.
It should also be sturdy so that it won’t blow over in the wind; ceramic and terracotta pots are ideal.
If the container is light, weight it with bricks before planting.
Always place it in the desired position first, as once planted it will be difficult to move.
Mimusops Zeyheri (Transvaal Red Milkwood)
One of the most appealing facets of this tree is its ability to attract butterflies and birds. Indigenous to the northern parts of South Africa, it’s also known for its pretty fruit high in Vitamin C.
Evergreen with dark, glossy foliage, it has a spreading, neat crown and can take partial shade on a patio.
Small, sweetly scented white flowers are borne in October to February followed by oval fruits which ripen to a bright yellow orange and are favoured by birds.
A compact root system and its ability to withstand drought and frost, make it suitable for containers.
Buxus Macowanii (Cape Box Tree)
The Cape box is a slow-growing evergreen tree that can reach a height of 9m.
With its compact shape and small shiny, leathery leaves, it lends itself to container planting, but also makes an excellent hedging specimen.
The stem is straight and slender with grooved greenish-brown bark.
Small, green flowers appear in winter and spring and the fruit that follows looks like hard, brown capsules.
Easy to cultivate, the tree tolerates drought well, but flourishes if fed and watered regularly.
