As a barefoot tomboy growing up on a farm in the Lowveld, trees have always been more for me than a shady spot on the grass.
Our old farmhouse faced a mountain on the outskirts of Mbombela (previously Nelspruit). In front of the stately stoep was a stretch of lawn ideal for cricket games with siblings and friends. A perfectly positioned kapok tree served as the wickets. While waiting for my turn to bat, I would throw my head back and admire the behemoth’s Barbie-pink flowers.
Then there was the treehouse perched in a jacaranda, where we’d spend entire afternoons, hands stained purple after picking mulberries from another tree within reach on the edge of the property.
A common wild fig led the way to our fishing pond, where kurpers caught had to be released, and we floated on tractor tubes in the cement dam, where a couple of coral trees kept watch. My high school was named after these fiery flowers; many “mountain flames” flickered brightly on the grounds of Hoërskool Bergvlam.
I’m not the only one who has been touched by the trees of the Lowveld. This is a story about some of the area’s landmark trees, and the people who love and protect them.
Move over, highway
The late New York Times editorialist, Hal Borland wrote: “If you would know strength and patience, welcome the company of trees.” This steady progress over centuries can instil muscle in even the most peaceful people.
Bu hikaye go! - South Africa dergisinin October/November 2021 sayısından alınmıştır.
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Bu hikaye go! - South Africa dergisinin October/November 2021 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
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