Tamarix aphylla ‘Erect’

A narrow cultivar of Tamarix aphylla that is differentiated by its canopy, lighter and more bluish foliage and more delicate joint texture. Under optimal conditions, the tree will reach a height of about 16 m and be long-lived. The trunk is brown and grooved, and it will look sculptural when it reaches adulthood. The tree is resistant to salt sea spray, and it is one of the only cultivars in Israel that is suitable for planting as a frontline coastal plant! This cultivar also requires very minimal water and only requires auxiliary watering until it is established. In adulthood, the leaves of the tree are able to absorb moisture from the air. The leaves also secrete salt that falls to the ground beneath it and prevents the growth of other plants in its immediate surroundings. The tree bears white flowers in summer. Some consider them to be without horticultural importance, but in actuality they make the tree appear to be covered in delicate snowflakes. The flowers are an important pasture for honey bees, which mark a dark honey from them with a pungent aroma. The tree’s root system is expansive, and it is not suitable for planting nearby buildings.

The tree will mostly be planted in coastal areas or open fields so it can be exposed to strong winds. To guarantee that the trees grow straight, Itay recommends planting the tree at an angle of 15–20° against the direction of the wind so that the tree will straighten out until it is established in its maturity.

This is an exceptional cultivar of Tamarix aphylla, whose properties are already well-known in Israel. The city of Ashdod has chosen it – and with good reason – to plant along the frontline of the city’s coast, from north to south. Due to the fact that the cultivar is propagated vegetatively (grafting), the trees’ appearance is uniform. These are hundreds of impressive specimens that grace the entire coastline, and we are proud of the fact that the trees came from our nursery.

Others in the same family: Tamarix aphylla | Tamarix aphylla erect | Tamarix chinensis