The Zimbabwean Gardener Issue 1 Winter 2012 | Page 28

Indigenous plants of Zimbabwe

Grewia occidentalis
by Wayne Black

Grewia occidentalis ticks
many boxes in being a gem
and a ‘must have’ for your
bird-loving garden.
In Zimbabwe, there are a variety of
indigenous trees that will naturally
attract fauna to the garden and one
genus of shrub that fits into this
category is the genus Grewia. Of the
23 species of Grewia found in this
country, one specific species well worth
focusing on is Grewia occidentalis var.
occidentalis, commonly known as the
Cross-berry or Pink Grewia.

Where it occurs
The plant is commonly found in the
Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe. It is a
non-descript species that can be best
identified when it bursts into magnificent
pink flower. Don’t be put off by planting
it in Harare or other parts of the country,
as it is very adaptable and is perfectly
content in a temperate climate.

How it grows
This tree grows as a scrambler or a
creeper, but if pruned, can grow into a
beautiful bush or shrub and can even
create a thicket. It is an evergreen to
semi-deciduous plant that can reach to
ten metres in height if left on its own.
The tree has a fast growth rate, growing
up to 1.5m per year in the first 3 to 5
years. The Cross-berry can be grown in
either full sun or shade and is frost and
drought tolerant. It is easily grown from
seed should you wish to propagate it
yourself.

The best place to plant it
An ideal place to plant this specimen
is at the base of an exotic or large
indigenous tree. The Pink Grewia will
scramble to the top and create a thicket
in the crown and when in flower, it will
put on a spectacular show. It also grows
well on trellises, providing a fantastic
screen if need be. If it is pruned as a
bush or shrub, it can then be placed
anywhere in the garden. With its
non-aggressive root system, it can be
positioned near buildings, paths or
swimming pools. It is a nice touch to
include it in a spinney of trees (many
trees planted close together), which will
then create a great breeding thicket for
many nesting birds.

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