In a bold initiative to preserve its historic streets and unique tree canopy, Stellenbosch – the university town in the Cape Winelands renowned for its oak trees – is set to replant oaks in the Historical Centre, highlighting its status as the “City of Oaks.”
The project, a public-private partnership between the Stellenbosch Municipality and local partners, aims to replace oak trees affected by the Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer (PSHB, Euwallacea fornicatus) while enhancing biodiversity in the broader town area. The initiative will begin in the Historical Centre with Plein Street, where nine new oak trees will be planted by the end of April, followed by Church Street and Dorp Street before winter. Plans are already underway to expand the project to other parts of Stellenbosch over the coming years.
Why Oaks?
The existing oak trees in the Historical Centre are Grade 2 Living National Monuments, officially recognized in 1950. As custodians of these living monuments, the Municipality is obligated to care for and replace them. The project will plant a diverse selection of oak species – including Turkish Oaks, Algerian Oaks, Water Oaks and Pinoaks – to mitigate the effects of the Borer beetle and build resilience against future infestations.
While some community members have asked why indigenous trees aren’t being planted, the answer lies in urban suitability. Yellowwoods, for example, attract bats and do not provide the clear sidewalks, roads and winter sunlight essential for a functional town centre. By contrast, the deciduous nature of oak trees ensures sunlight reaches pedestrians and vehicles in winter, while preserving Stellenbosch’s leafy streets and historic character.
A community-driven project
“Recognising the Municipality’s budget constraints, this initiative is being funded entirely through donations rather than municipal funds,” says the project team. “We want to encourage residents and businesses to get involved – whether by making a donation or sponsoring a tree for R25,000, which includes a commemorative name tag. Every contribution goes directly to the Stellenbosch Trail Fund NPC, helping us preserve the town’s iconic green canopy for generations to come.”
“The Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer has been devastating oak trees across South Africa and our historic streets are no exception,” says Liesl van der Walt, botanist and landscape architect. “Stellenbosch’s oak trees are more than just shade – they are central to the town’s identity, tourism appeal and environmental health. In the face of rising temperatures and climate change, maintaining a green canopy encourages pedestrian-friendly streets, supports biodiversity and preserves the historic charm that defines the town,” adds van der Walt. “Our intention is to plant 30 to 50 new oaks this year, ensuring future generations can continue to enjoy the green streets and unique character that make Stellenbosch so special. We invite the community to be part of this long-term initiative.”
How to get involved
- Donate to the project: Stellenbosch Trail Fund NPC, Investec Current Account 10012005483, Branch Code 580105, Reference: “Plant an Oak and your name”.
- Sponsor a tree: R25,000 per tree, which includes a name tag to acknowledge your contribution and covers the purchase, delivery, preparation, installation, plaque and potential replacement – ensuring long-term success.
For more information about the project or to make a donation, click here
