Trees for Madiba at the botanical gardens

After the passing on of world icon Nelson Mandela, the Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens established a Mandela Memorial Circle of Remembrance in his honour by planting three trees.

According to the principal officer in marketing and communications at Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens Ronny Tshabalala, Heteropyxis natalensis (Lavendar tree), Catha edulis (Bushman’s tea) and Ptaeroxylon obliquum (Sneezewood) are the three trees planted at the gardens and they each represent elements Mandela’s distinct personality.

“Instead of bitterness, Mandela embraced everyone and his presence was an aromatic just like the strong aromatic foliage of the Lavendar tree, representing healing of the nation,” said Tshabalala.

He said the tree is rare, found in riverine forests or forested gorges.

“From the Horn of Africa to the Arabian Peninsula and South Africa, Bushman’s tea is endemic just like Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela’s inspirational impact to the world,” he added.

He said the tree has an upright crown and dropping branches, resembling Eucalyptus trees.

“The leaves are used by Bushmen in tea and chewed as a drug and the bark is used as insect repellent.

Explaining Sneezewood, Tshabalala said just like Rolihlahla Mandela’s rare quality leadership, it is the only species in this genus.

“He was a rare species now extinct but his legacy will live forever.”

He said the leaves are compound and dark green, and the flowers are small in yellow sprays, sweetly scented.

“The wood contains aromatic oil with a peppery smell [that causes] sneezing,” he said.

Asavela Yashe, who deals with turf grass and arboriculture at the gardens, said there will be construction and fortification around the memorial circle for preservation purposes, a project that could be completed within a year.Details: Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens marketing and communications officer Ronny Tshabalala 086 100 1278.