Sea Guarrie

(Euclea racemosa)

Sea Guarrie (Euclea racemosa)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Euclea racemosa, commonly known as sea guarrie or dune guarrie, is an evergreen tree or shrub native to coastal dune forests, thickets, and dry woodland areas along the Indian Ocean coast of Africa, from Egypt to South Africa, and extending to the islands of Comoros, as well as to Oman and Yemen. It typically grows to a height of 2-9 meters with a similar spread, featuring a dense, rounded to spreading crown. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and leathery, providing a year-round dense foliage that is excellent for privacy hedges or screens. Sea guarrie blooms with small, inconspicuous white flowers that are followed by an array of berry colors from red to purple and black as they mature, which are highly attractive to birds and other wildlife.

The dense foliage of Euclea racemosa makes it an ideal choice for creating windbreaks in coastal areas, as well as for topiary or formal hedges in residential and commercial landscapes. It is drought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal water, and thrives in a variety of soil types, although it prefers well-drained sandy soils. Full sun to partial shade suits this plant best. In addition to its ornamental and practical uses, the berries are harvested locally to produce "Guarrie vinegar," and the wood is sometimes used for crafting. Gardeners should note that while it is generally pest-free, it can suffer from root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
  • Height: 9-12 feet
  • Width: 6-10 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Coastal dune forests, thickets, and dry woodlands along the Indian Ocean coast of Africa, extending to Comoros, Oman, and Yemen

Other Names

Common Names: Guarri, Ghwarrie, Common Guarri, Bushveld Guarri, River Guarri

Scientific Names: , Euclea racemosa,

GBIF Accepted Name: