Local Horticulturalist Debunks Myths About Indigenous Plants This Spring

To commemorate the arrival of spring on the KZN South Coast, it’s time to challenge the persistent misconceptions around indigenous gardens. Amanda Maphumulo, the Garden Installation and Maintenance Supervisor at Renishaw Hills in Scottburgh, has debunked 4 myths around this landscaping technique while sharing tips on creating a vibrant garden this spring.

“The incredible gardens at Renishaw Hills are living proof that indigenous gardens on the KZN coast are a vibrant option for homeowners,” commented Barto van der Merwe, Managing Director of Renishaw Property Developments, a subsidiary of JSE-listed Crookes Brothers Limited. “Our gardens at Renishaw Hills, which regularly play host to the prestigious Botanical Society Winter Gardens, are a testament to this.”

Designed by renowned South African botanist Dr Elsa Pooley and brought to life by horticulturist Amanda Maphumulo and their team, the estate’s gardens are a thriving showcase of biodiversity, colour, and creativity. To assist others in achieving such water-saving gardens.

Myth 1: Indigenous Gardens Are Boring and Colourless

“People often imagine indigenous gardens as being all green and spiky, but that couldn’t be further from the truth,” explains Amanda. “When planned properly, indigenous gardens can deliver year-round colour, from the fiery reds and oranges of Aloes in winter, to the purples and blues of Plectranthus, the sunny yellows of Bulbines, and the elegant whites and pinks of Watsonias in spring. These plants are spectacular, and they thrive right here on the KZN South Coast.”

Maphumulo adds: “Having an indigenous garden is best because it brings life into your garden. You get to invite different birds and insects that feed on the plants, and at the same time, you stabilise the soil, which minimises erosion. They’re hardy and tough and can survive environmental changes with ease – but like people, they still need tender care.”

Myth 2: Indigenous Gardens Don’t Attract Butterflies and Birdlife

Amanda says, on the contrary, one of the greatest joys of indigenous gardening is the wildlife it brings. Renishaw Hills’ natural gardens have become a haven for birdlife, butterflies, and small mammals.

“It’s because of this shared care for the environment – both within and beyond our gates – that Renishaw Hills continues to flourish as a haven for local wildlife,” she says . “Residents often share sightings of mongoose families exploring their gardens, the cheerful calls of Natal spurfowl greeting the morning, and flashes of green from Klaas’s cuckoos perched nearby. Nature really is on your doorstep.”

Myth 3: Indigenous Gardens Must Be Completely Unattended

While indigenous plants are naturally adapted to their environment, Amanda says they do still need some thoughtful maintenance. For those who enjoy a bit of gardening but don’t want to be overwhelmed, this is the ideal balance. She advises:

• Start with healthy soil: A good composted bed with organic material will help your plants thrive.
• Plan for all seasons: Choose a mix of flowering plants that bloom at different times to ensure        year-round colour.
• Water and feed, but don’t overdo it: Indigenous gardens prefer moderation and balance.

Myth 4: Indigenous Gardens Are Sparse and Unstructured

“An indigenous garden doesn’t have to look wild or untamed,” says Amanda. “When you understand the plants and how they grow, you can create a structured, elegant garden that’s as spectacular as any exotic landscape, with far less environmental impact.”

This is clearly evident at Renishaw Hills, where every home comes with a professionally designed and established indigenous garden, carefully curated by the horticultural team. The result is a layered landscape with an artful blend of succulents, grasses, shrubs and flowering plants that evolve through the seasons.

The Renishaw Hills Garden Legacy

Renishaw Hills’ commitment to indigenous rehabilitation is ecological as well as aesthetic. Working with Dr Elsa Pooley and leading rehabilitation specialist Geoff Nichols, the estate launched an extensive environmental rehabilitation programme to remove alien vegetation and restore the region’s natural plant life.

Dr Pooley – whose celebrated career includes the Durban beachfront upgrade and the publication of numerous field guides to South African flora – has ensured that Renishaw Hills’ landscapes remain true to the area’s coastal heritage. The project, which has created employment for dozens of local horticulturalists, has already transformed former sugarcane land into rolling grasslands, forest patches, and wetlands teeming with biodiversity.

Beyond the spectacular gardens, Renishaw Hills offers retirees an enriching coastal estate lifestyle, enhanced by a range of features, including:

• Cost-effective levies that include exterior maintenance, garden services, refuse and postal collection, high-speed fibre optic WiFi, 24/7 security, and access to healthcare services.
• Outstanding amenities, from more than 20 active clubs to shared community facilities – including the development of a brand-new bowls green.
• A spectacular natural setting, known for its pristine beaches – including Blue Flag beaches – and lush coastal forests filled with mountain biking and hiking trails.
• Reliable water supply, thanks to an independent system that ensures continuous access for all residents.

Get in touch!

Far from being just an active retirement community, Renishaw Hills in Scottburgh on the KZN South Coast is a premier mature lifestyle estate for individuals over 50, offering a vibrant lifestyle. For more details about Renishaw Hills or to arrange a tour, contact Kelly at 064 198 2693, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or visit www.renishawhills.co.za. Check out the available units at Renishaw Hills: https://renishawhills.co.za/available-units/.