Care of the shrub Searsia dentata or Nana-berry |
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The genus Searsia, family Anacardiaceae, includes more than 100 species of shrubs and trees native to Africa and Asia. Some species are: Searsia dentata, Searsia albida, Searsia lucida, Searsia leptodictya, Searsia crenata, Searsia lancea, Searsia tomentosa. Common name: Nana-berry. Scientific synonym: Rhus dentata. This species is native to eastern South Africa. They are shrubs or small dioecious deciduous trees that reach 5 meters (16.4 feet) in height and 4 meters (13.12 feet) in width. The trifoliate leaves with a serrated edge are dark green; in autumn they take on a yellow or orange color. The small flowers are greenish in color and have no decorative interest. They bloom in spring. The decorative red fruits appear in clusters. Nana-berry is used as isolated specimens, to cover slopes, in shrubby groups and in pots. It attracts butterflies (flowers) and birds (fruits). Searsia dentata grows in full sun and partial shade exposures. It has good resistance to not very prolonged frosts. Rhus dentata prefers normal, well-drained garden soil that contains some organic matter; add leaf mulch to the surface of the substrate. Water regularly waiting until the substrate has almost dried out; young plants need more water than adults. Fertilize with compost or manure in the fall. Prune at the end of winter to remove dry branches and to maintain a compact habit. Searsia dentata is a quite resistant plant to the usual pests and diseases. Nana-berry is propagated from seeds sown in spring, by air layering and by cuttings. |
Images of the shrub Searsia dentata or Nana-berry |
 Searsia dentata  Searsia dentata |