A living legacy takes root in Lonehill
A cherished family plant, nurtured for over six decades, has been gifted to Lonehill Park as a living legacy from resident Peter de Nóbrega, whose father first purchased it in the late 1960s.
At the entrance to Lonehill Park, a striking new arrival now greets residents, a magnificent cycad with a history as rich as its glossy green leaves. This is no ordinary plant. It has been lovingly cared for by Lonehill resident Peter de Nóbrega for more than 60 years, and now, through his generosity, it has found a permanent home in the heart of the community.
De Nóbrega’s connection to the cycad stretches back to the late 1960s, when his father first purchased it. “My late father bought the baby cycad whilst on holiday in the Barberton area in the late 60s, with a license since it is a protected plant, for the sum of R30. Quite a lot in those days.”
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From Springs to Johannesburg and finally to Lonehill in 2000, the cycad has flourished under De Nóbrega’s care, producing a huge new crown every two years. “Very little care required. They are hardy, and nature looks after them.”
Now, De Nóbrega has chosen to gift this living treasure to the Lonehill Residents Association (LRA), entrusting it to Nadeem Abrahams and the dedicated gardening team. “I decided to donate it because I know they will look after it well. The setting near the koppie is ideal. I’m sure Dad would approve.”
The location holds a special charm for De Nóbrega. The Lonehill Koppie, he notes, was once immortalised on the cover of the 1960s musical Ipi ’n Tombi by Bertha Egnos. The cycad, planted in its new home on a landscaped island, will now stand as a lasting symbol of heritage and resilience.
While De Nóbrega modestly says he is no expert, he believes cycads can live for hundreds of years, often regenerating after natural events like fire. He hopes residents will both admire and respect the plant. “Advice to those who walk past, don’t go near it or touch it. The thorns are vicious, and you will know all about it.”
For De Nóbrega, the donation is a way of giving back to a place that has given him so much.
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