Combretum Erythrophylum "River Bush Willow" 40Liter

Common Names: River Bushwillow, River Combretum

📌 Product Description

Combretum erythrophyllum, commonly known as River Bushwillow, is a fast-growing indigenous tree valued for its graceful spreading canopy and striking seasonal colour. The glossy green leaves turn brilliant shades of red and maroon in autumn, creating a spectacular display.

This tree naturally grows along riverbanks and watercourses, making it well suited to gardens with wetter areas. It produces small creamy flowers followed by distinctive four-winged seeds that add ornamental interest.

Highly adaptable and hardy, River Bushwillow is widely used in South African landscapes as a shade tree and feature plant, especially in large gardens and estates.

📏 Size When Fully Grown

Height: 8 – 15 m
Spread: 6 – 10 m
Growth Habit: Medium to large spreading tree
Growth Rate: Fast

🌱 Best Growing Conditions

Light: Full sun
Soil: Prefers moist, well-draining soil; tolerates seasonal wet conditions
Water:

• Water regularly during establishment
• Prefers consistent moisture
• Tolerates wet or waterlogged conditions better than most trees

Feeding: Apply compost in spring to encourage healthy growth.

Maintenance:

• Prune to shape if required
• Can develop surface roots near water
• Low maintenance once established

🌦️ Planting & Growing Season (South Africa)

Best Planting Time: Spring to early summer
Active Growth: Spring and summer
Seasonal Interest: Green in summer, striking red autumn colour
Climate Suitability: Suitable for most South African regions, especially near water or irrigated areas
Frost Tolerance: Tolerates light to moderate frost

🌼 Additional Benefits

• Indigenous South African tree
• Spectacular autumn colour
• Fast-growing shade tree
• Suitable for wet areas
• Attracts birds and insects

🌿 Ideal Uses

✔ Shade tree
✔ Large gardens and estates
✔ Near ponds or water features
✔ Indigenous landscapes
✔ Feature seasonal colour tree