Thursday, July 15, 2010

The Gated Garden - Indigenous Inspiration - July 2010

South Africa is home to the richest floral kingdom in the world. The bewildering diversity of species available enables the gardening enthusiast to choose exactly the right plant for every taste and situation. Each month we feature a species that is readily available and easy to grow, assisting eco-conscious homeowners in beautifying their gardens while contributing to the conservation of our planet.

Buddleja salviifolia – Sagewood

This attractive strong growing shrub or small tree reaches about 5m in height and will even do well in difficult growing conditions. The long leaves are rough, dark green above and silvery white underneath. The dense panicles of sweetly scented, lilac flowers appear in late winter to early spring, attracting a host of butterflies, bees and birds to the garden. The versatile Sagewood can be trimmed into a neat bush or, by removing the lower branches, a charming small tree. Buddleja salviifolia can be used as a lovely specimen in the garden as well as an excellent foil for other plants at the back of an herbaceous border or even as a dense hedge. Sagewood enjoys full sun and does best when planted in a large hole with plenty of compost and a moderate amount of water. Buddleja salviifolia is easily propagated from cuttings.

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