African Tamarisk, Salt Cedar

Tamarix africana, also known as African Tamarisk or Salt Cedar, is a valuable tree for coastal sites and gardens withstanding the challenges of salt exposure and wind without issue, where many other species would suffer.

It can tolerate a range of soils from light, sandy and free draining to those which are clay-based with some water retention.

As a small growing tree, Tamarix africana can be expected to reach heights up to 7m in most locations but unlikely more.

A profusion of white/pink flowers adorns the landscape in late spring, providing interest after the classic blossom trees like cherry and crab apple have finished blooming.

If left to its own devices, Tamarix develops a light and open canopy with green, conifer-like foliage. However, this tree also responds well to pruning, allowing for the promotion of a slightly denser and neater canopy if desired.

The Tamarix africana is closely related to the Tamarix gallica.

Mature height: 3-7m

Common names

African Tamarisk, Salt Cedar

Height of tree

3-7m

Soil type

Well drained, Will tolerate most soil types

Shape

Rounded

Blossom Colour

Pink

Foliage Colour

Green

Looks good in

Spring

Location

Garden, Coastal