Maytenus procumbens: practical and pretty

From Southern Cape to the Eastern Cape and KZN, every coastal belt project should include versatile Maytenus procumbens.

Here's why: 

 Environmentally appropriate: naturally occurs along South and East coast in dune scrub, dune forests and valleys or wooded areas.

Hardy, adaptable and drought tolerant, withstands harsh coastal conditions and poor soil.

Attracts wildlife, especially birds.

Protects the soil with its scrambling branches allowing other species to establish themselves quickly in rehabilitation contexts.

It can be left to itself for a natural effect, or trimmed to shape as a shrub or small tree  in more formal settings

The naturally scrambling habit when young, similar to Carissa ‘Green Carpet’ is easily maintained by trimming or clipping, and M. procumbens can grow in much harsher conditions than Carissa.

Aesthetically pleasing: Pale green, glossy foliage, small white flowers and very pretty seed capsules that ripen to a bright yellow-orange. They burst open to reveal seeds with orange arils. (August to January)