In nature, the blue guarri grows quite easily from fresh seed as this is its natural way to spread. It must be noted that only female trees produce seed.

During autumn collect your seeds from healthy trees which are disease-free. Remove the thin fleshy seed covering. The seed should be plump, not shrunken and light. Aim to sow as soon as possible after harvesting. Fill a 10 cm deep seedling tray with a mix of rich soil and compost. Ensure the soil is level by pressing down fairly firmly, then place the seeds on top. Cover the seeds with a layer of river sand to a depth of 5 mm. The tray should be kept moist during germination, but never wet. Transplant the seedlings into black nursery bags when they are at the second leaf stage. These slow-growing seedlings will need to be protected from strong winds and frost during their first two years.

This evergreen tree will provide year-round shade to your garden; the large canopy provides homes and a food source to birds and other wildlife as well as providing a sweet scent from the flowers in spring and summer.

Acknowledgements: Phakamani Xaba & Mkhipheni Ngwenya of SANBI for clarification on the isiZulu common names used for Euclea crispa. Marie Jordaan of SANBI for assisting with photos.