Posted by: Saving Water SA (Cape Town, South Africa) – partnered with Water Rhapsody conservation systems – 03 September 2010

The City of Cape Town will celebrate Arbor Month this year by planting six hundred and fourteen (614) trees in various events which will be held throughout Cape Town this month. Local Ward Councillors, businesses, schools and communities will all work together to uphold this year’s theme: Plant for the planet – Grow green.

Acacia xanthophloea or Fever Tree. Early pioneers associated this tree with malaria fevers.

“The tree-planting activities form part of the City’s commitment to promoting a healthy environment and beautifying Cape Town. Arbor Month also presents an ideal opportunity for raising awareness about the importance of planting indigenous trees,” said Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services, Councillor Brett Herron.

Residents will also notice an increase in the numbers of the official tree of the year, the Fever tree (Acacia xanthophloea) being planted. In addition the City will be planting this year’s uncommon trees of the year, the Cape Garenia (Rothmania capensis), Bell gardenia (Rothmannia globosa), and Tonga-kerrie (Cladostemon kirkii), along with various indigenous tree species.

The City Parks Department recently completed a comprehensive Greening Strategy which will be used as a guide for the next five to ten years. This strategy seeks to provide, improve and enhance the value of green spaces and the environment in a qualitative and sustainable manner:

• For the use of passive and active recreation and social activities
• To contribute aesthetic value to the urban landscape and
• To address the effects of global warming

“Residents are encouraged to get into the spirit of Arbor Month and play their part – however big or small it may be – in greening our city. We urge residents to plant trees or shrubs in their gardens and help raise awareness about the importance of appreciating and giving back to the natural environment,” said Councillor Herron. Continue reading City to plant 614 trees for Arbor Month