Area of origin: Southern Africa
Adult Dimensions: Height and width up to 2 m
Foliage: Semipersistent
Soil Type: All. Preferably well-drained
Hardiness: Hardy to -5°C, fears frost
Exposure: Partial shade to Full sun.
Properties and uses:
Growia occidentalis - or Crossberry - is a small bushy tree, indigenous to Southern Africa. It tolerates drought and ocean spray, and thrives in the mild climate of the coastal areas.
Fast growing, it will find its place in your garden, as long as there is no excess in humidity. It is recommended to winter the plant and to grow it in pots in cooler areas.
The surprising blossoming of exotic, pink, star-shaped flowers will brighten up the garden in summer and attract all pollinators. After the flowers, it produces shiny, reddish-brown edible fruits, called Grewia berries or Crossberries. They can be eaten right off the tree and have a sweet flavour.
To be planted in open ground or in pot according to the climate, and in flower hedges or flowerbeds.