Dais cotinifolia

A small, rounded tree that grows up to 5m tall and 2m wide.

A small spring-flowering tree that produces pompom heads of lilac-pink flowers. The leaves are smooth and dark green with a bluish tinge on the upper side. The fruit is a small nutlet concealed in the dry seed case. The tiny black seeds can be collected about 2 months after flowering. This tree is semi-deciduous but completely evergreen in warmer climates.

Prefers humus-rich, well-drained soil in full sun. However, the lovely Dais cotinifolia is frost-resistant and fairly drought-resistant once established.

Always choose healthy, well-grown plants. The best time to plant is from late spring to early summer. Planting success can be improved on clay soils by adding extra topsoil and forming raised beds. Incorporate coarse sand, bark, compost or other organic material to improve soil structure. Dig a hole in the ground twice the size of the root ball. Before planting, ensure that the root ball is saturated and remove planter pot with minimal root disturbance. As soil is placed in the prepared hole, tread firmly to bring soil in close contact with the root ball. Water thoroughly, making sure that moisture penetrates to the depth of the root ball.

Tall plants and those in windy positions require staking to stabilize the root ball until established. Position the stakes in the hole before planting and place the plant between them. Longterm slow-release fertilisers can be added at this stage. As soil is placed in the prepared hole, tread firmly to bring soil in close contact with the root ball. Use wide ties that hold securely without chafing. Tie firmly but allow room for the trunk to increase in girth without constriction. This allows the plant to move a little in the wind, encouraging the development of a strong root system. Water thoroughly, making sure that moisture penetrates to the depth of the root ball.

Mulch with compost to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Make sure to keep mulch away from plant stems. Apply a light spring dressing (50g/m2) of general-purpose fertiliser. Sprinkle evenly and work into the top 2 to 3cm of the soil, taking care to not damage surface roots.

Water young trees regularly during the summer months until they are well established, which usually takes about two years. The trees can be lightly pruned to encourage bushiness. Flowers are produced on the previous year's growth, so pruning should be done after flowering. They require little maintenance; just prune overlapping or irregular growth. The root ball sometimes dries out despite the surrounding soil being moist. If this occurs, directly water down the plant stem to saturate the root ball.

Check young plants regularly for pests and diseases. Also, check stakes and ties for chafing and constriction. Remove ties as soon as plants are strong enough to withstand winds without damage.

African Garden

Dais cotinifolia grows naturally from Mpumalanga to the eastern side of South Africa. It has been cultivated in European gardens as far back as 1764. The bark of this tree contains tannins, so was widely used by the Voortrekkers (Dutch settlers) for tanning hides. It has also been traditionally used in rural areas to make a strong thread and good quality rope.