About Searsia crenata (Thunb.) Moffett
Searsia crenata (Thunb.) Moffett is a multibranched evergreen shrub or small tree that grows up to 3 metres tall, with a spread of around 3 metres. Its leaf stalks (petioles) measure approximately 2 mm in length. Each leaflet is shaped obovate-cuneate, with three distinct bumps at its broad tip, a feature called tricrenate. This species produces small flowers in autumn, which are followed by dark blue fruit that is eaten by birds. This species occurs along the southern coast of South Africa, ranging from Cape Town eastward to the Kei River. It grows most commonly on stabilised sand dunes, which is its favoured habitat. In cultivation, Searsia crenata works well as a bonsai subject, and can be easily pruned to form a very neat hedge. It grows best in full sun and is semi frost hardy.
