Branching Off – An unusual baobab story from the Riebeek Valley

Once upon a time, I came across a truly extraordinary sight in the Riebeek Valley. It was a magnificent baobab tree, standing tall and proud, with branches that seemed to reach up to the heavens. The sheer size and grandeur of the tree took my breath away. I couldn’t help but wonder: how did this majestic tree come to call this valley its home?

The baobab, you see, is a fascinating tree. It is known for its distinct shape, with a thick, trunk-like base and branches that resemble roots. In fact, some people call it the “upside-down” tree, as its branches look like they are reaching down towards the ground.

But what makes the baobab truly remarkable is its longevity. These trees can live for thousands of years, standing as silent witnesses to the passing of time. They are truly a testament to the power and resilience of nature.

As I delved deeper into the story of this particular baobab in the Riebeek Valley, I discovered something truly extraordinary. It was no ordinary baobab – it was a hybrid. A cross between the African baobab and the Australian boab tree, this tree had inherited the best traits of both its ancestors.

This unusual baobab had developed a unique ability to adapt to its surroundings. It thrived in the arid conditions of the Riebeek Valley, where other trees struggled to survive. Its powerful roots reached deep into the ground, drawing up water and nutrients from the parched earth.

But what amazed me the most was the way this baobab interacted with the living creatures around it. It was like a hub of life, teeming with activity. Birds nested in its branches, seeking shelter and protection. Bees buzzed around its flowers, pollinating them and ensuring the tree’s continued existence. Monkeys swung from its limbs, frolicking in the shade.

This hybrid baobab had become a source of life and sustenance for the entire ecosystem around it. And in return, the ecosystem had nurtured and protected the baobab, allowing it to thrive and reach its full potential.

As I stood there, mesmerized by the beauty of this baobab, I couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible power of adaptation and collaboration. This baobab had found a way to not only survive but flourish in its environment by embracing its uniqueness and forming symbiotic relationships with the creatures around it.

It reminded me that we, too, can learn from the baobab. We all have our own unique qualities and strengths, just like this extraordinary tree. By embracing those qualities and working together, we can create a world where we all thrive and reach our full potential.

So, the next time you come across an unusual baobab in the Riebeek Valley or anywhere else, take a moment to appreciate its beauty and reflect on the lessons it can teach us. We are all branches of the same tree, connected and intertwined, each contributing to the beauty and diversity of the world we share.

Trees have a special place in the hearts of many people. Some choose to plant them, while others find comfort in hugging them. But there are those like André and Corné of the Riebeek Valley Garden Centre who have a deep, unshakeable love for trees that goes beyond what most of us can comprehend.

Inside the central atrium of Die Boomhuis, there is something truly extraordinary – a majestic baobab tree. But what makes this place even more fascinating is the roof above, which is crafted entirely from the repurposed glass doors of Coca-Cola fridges.

When I first learned about Die Boomhuis, I couldn’t help but overhear a conversation in a cozy Cape Town coffee shop. A woman mentioned this restaurant in Riebeek West and praised the incredible eggs benedict she had there. But what caught my attention was her mention of a tree. Yes, this restaurant was built around a glorious baobab tree.

Naturally, my curiosity got the better of me, and a few days later, I made my way to Riebeek West. I was so eager that I arrived even before the Riebeek Valley Garden Centre had opened its doors.

As I approached the building, I was greeted by an architectural marvel. The Cape Dutch revival structure boasted deep green walls and white columns that beautifully contrasted against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains. But it was the entrance that truly took my breath away – an enormous door that led into a dramatically soaring atrium, filled with sunlight streaming through the glass roof. In the heart of that vast space stood the baobab tree, its branches spreading out majestically.

The sights and sounds were equally enchanting. On one side of the atrium, a small waterfall cascaded gently, creating a soothing ambiance. Tables, stands, and shelves adorned with vibrant, multicolored plants added to the magical atmosphere.

Feeling puzzled, I scanned my surroundings for the baobab tree. It must have been enormous and hard to overlook. With no sight of it, I made my way outside, feeling let down by the absence of the breathtaking tree. I wandered through an archway that led away from the central area where a slender tree stood, a meager substitute for the grand baobab. Seeking solace, I decided to enter the Krem a Tart Restaurant for a cup of coffee. Frustration mounted within me as I grumbled about the foolish gossip I had overheard. I promised myself not to eavesdrop on anyone again.

But fate had something else in store for me. I struck up a conversation with Corné Pretorius, one of the restaurant’s owners. Over the course of the next four hours, as we drank countless cups of coffee and attended to customers’ needs, an incredible tale unfurled before my eyes. It was a story of aspirations, road trips, a repurposed building, and, eventually, the grand baobab tree.

In front of me, I see the stunning view from the restaurant, complemented by the vibrant colors of the stained glass. It’s a sight that captures my attention.

Pursuing a dream.

Corné is a remarkable individual, both in physical stature and in his vibrant personality. He firmly believes that cultivating plants is an integral part of his family legacy, spanning four generations. He often shares an intriguing anecdote to support this claim:

“Back in the day, when my ancestors journeyed to the hinterland, my great grandmother secured a cactus to the underside of the ox wagon. To this day, that very same plant thrives on a farm in the Magoebaskloof. It’s as if the passion for horticulture flows through my veins.”

Back in 2004, my brother Corné and I were running our little nursery on rented land in Riebeek West. We had this amazing dream of buying our own plot and creating something truly special, using materials that we repurposed. To keep our dream alive, we embarked on regular road trips all over South Africa, searching for unique items and building materials to either purchase or salvage for our project. But life happened, and we had to navigate through red tape, setbacks, and delays. It wasn’t until 2011 that we finally became landowners.

Getting the plans approved took forever, adding to our frustration, but in 2015, we were able to start construction. Although it wasn’t exactly the building we had originally envisioned, it served as a temporary solution while we dealt with funding, weather challenges, and bureaucracy. But here’s the amazing part – everything in our building, except for the bricks we bought locally, is repurposed. And each item has its own story to tell.

As I stepped into the atrium, I immediately noticed the unique blend of local artwork, plants, and water features that added texture to this captivating space.

Welcome to Die Boomhuis, a special kind of nursery that boasts an extraordinary feature – a baobab tree growing right inside the building.

This place is more than just a nursery though. It’s a vibrant hub where people can come together, socialize, and truly embrace the joys of life. With its restaurant and coffee shop, barbershop, art gallery, and The Pantry deli, Die Boomhuis strives to create a sense of community and connection.

When I first saw the seemingly ordinary tree upon arrival, little did I know that it was actually a baobab. These magnificent trees can live for over a thousand years, and at a mere 52 years old, this baobab still has another five decades to go before it fully embodies the iconic baobab image.

Back in 1969, I came into existence as a tiny sapling, planted by a resident of Somerset West who had big dreams for me. Over the years, I underwent many relocations until I finally succumbed to decay and toppled over in the early 2000s. Thankfully, a friend of Corné’s came to my rescue, managing to clear out the rot that had plagued me. Eventually, Corné and André became my proud owners in 2015, building a nursery that revolved around me.

But that’s not the end of the story. The building itself has a fascinating tale to tell. To start, the window frames were miraculously saved from the destructive Knysna fires of 2017. The top part of the immense barn door at the rear of the property was rescued from the bustling Cape Town harbor. And the benches, mantelpieces, and lintels that grace the space were once sturdy railway sleepers.

The beautiful arched windows and doors that grace our restaurant were rescued from a nearby school that was being torn down. These architectural treasures were given a new lease on life, adding character and charm to our space. The entrance from the restaurant to the baobab atrium is a sight to behold, with an intricate stained glass arch crafted by the talented artist Ebert Nieuwoudt of Glass Aloe in Koringberg.

Our commitment to supporting the local community is evident in every aspect of our establishment. The waterfall and stone walls adorning the side of the building were lovingly created by a skilled local craftsman, using stones sourced from the surrounding area. We take pride in employing a dedicated team of local builders, who had the privilege of seeing this ambitious project through from start to finish.

Riebeek Nursery

Location: 52 Voortrekker Road, Riebeek West

Hours of Operation: Tues – Fri: 9am – 5pm, Sat: 8am – 4pm, Sun: 8am – 2pm

Contact: Call us at 022 461 2002 or visit riebeeknursery.co.za

Hey, take a look at the back garden and outbuildings where you can spot the massive barn door salvaged from the Cape Town harbour.

Some cool facts about baobabs:

• In the Western Cape, you’ll only find one other baobab, and it’s in the Conservatory at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.
• Baobabs aren’t exactly trees; they’re actually the largest succulents in the world. They can grow as high as 15 to 20 meters and have trunks that are about 25 meters in circumference.
• To reach groundwater, the baobab’s roots go even deeper than the tree’s height.
• According to folklore, the baobab never truly dies, living for over a thousand years. It eventually returns to the earth, rotting from the inside and collapsing into a pile of pulp and fiber.

A fully grown baobab tree is a work of art created by nature. It provides a home for a diverse community of creatures, such as birds, bees, snakes, bats, and insects. Even elephants and giraffes benefit from the tree, as they can obtain moisture by chewing on its bark.

This tree is like a bustling city, bustling with life and activity. It’s amazing how many different species call it home. Just think of all the buzzing bees, chirping birds, slithering snakes, and fluttering bats that live within its branches. The baobab tree is a true hub for nature.

Not only does the baobab tree provide shelter, but it also offers sustenance. Elephants and giraffes are known to chew on its bark to quench their thirst. It’s fascinating to think about how interconnected everything is in nature.

The baobab tree truly is a marvelous creation. It’s a living testament to the power and beauty of the natural world. We should cherish and protect these magnificent trees, as they play a vital role in our ecosystem.

So next time you see a baobab tree, take a moment to appreciate its grandeur. Marvel at the bustling community it supports and the incredible ways it sustains life. Nature truly is a wonder.

Corné’s zest for life is simply contagious. “Normal is nothing more than a button on the dishwasher,” claims this green thumb who abandoned a thriving corporate job two decades ago to pursue his idyllic existence in a cozy little town in the Western Cape. Fueled by a deep affection for humanity, nature, and treading lightly upon the planet, Corné now proudly declares himself as a bona fide local in the charming Riebeek Valley.

When I was a kid, my big dream was to learn the scientific names of all the plants on Earth. I truly believed that in order to create something beautiful, you needed to be surrounded by beauty. And I’ve made that a reality in my nursery in Riebeek Kasteel. My background in interior design is definitely reflected in the “Boomhuis”. But I’m also deeply inspired by nature, which is why I pursued additional studies in landscaping and garden design. I love how these two fields come together in my work, showcasing my talent and creativity. And when it comes to discussing plants, my knowledge of Latin is pretty impressive!

Exciting Things in Riebeek Kasteel and Riebeek West

Welcome to the Royal Hotel!

If you’re looking for a quick getaway from Cape Town, Riebeek Kasteel and Riebeek West in the heart of the Swartland are the perfect destinations. They are just a one-hour drive away via the N7 and the R46. And let me tell you, this place is famous for its top-notch olives.

Now, I know olive oil tasting might sound a bit unusual, but trust me, it’s a fascinating experience. At the Olive Boutique, run by Derek and Susan, you’ll get to taste some of the best olive oils around. They’ll guide you through the process and tell you all about EVOO (extra virgin olive oil). It’s the cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, considered to be the healthiest diet in the world. So, not only will you have a delicious time, but you’ll also learn something new.

But wait, there’s more! If you’re a wine lover, you’re in luck. In Riebeek Kasteel and Riebeek West, you’ll find an abundance of wineries offering diverse wine tastings. The options are endless – Pulpit Rock, Kloovenburg, Allesverloren, The Wine Kollective, and The Riebeek Valley Wine Co Tasting Emporium. Some even allow you to get hands-on and blend your own wine. Plus, many of these wineries have fantastic restaurants that will satisfy your cravings after all that tasting.

No trip to The Royal Hotel is finished without a chilled G&T on their outdoor stoep (royalinriebeek.com) or in their historic bar, which has been around for 150 years. Across the street from the hotel on Short Street, you’ll find a range of shops where you can indulge in some retail therapy. Hidden away in the alleyways are cozy corners where you can have a cup of coffee and sample some delicious koek. You’ll also discover a variety of handmade clothing, jewelry, knitted items, and other unique crafts. Don’t miss out on exploring this charming area during your visit.