Kalika Redelinghuys, Managing Director of Trees South Africa, grew up in the forests of Knysna — a place where trees and elephants shaped her earliest understanding of nature. Today, that connection drives her work leading one of the country’s most passionate and skilled tree-growing teams.
With a deep love for the Magnolia tree — “its scent reminds me of Christmas at my grandparents’ home in Stellenbosch” — Kalika brings not only technical knowledge but also emotional memory and meaning into her work. She’s driven by a vision: for Trees South Africa to become the leading tree nursery in the country, a go-to destination for all things trees, and a place of learning and shared purpose that uplifts more than just landscapes.
Her days are full: checking in with managers, planning, fielding client calls, paying suppliers, and dreaming forward. But what grounds her most is the team itself. “We’re just humans trying to make a difference, together. Maybe that’s ubuntu.”
When asked what makes Trees South Africa unique, she doesn’t hesitate: “We care. We really, really care. And we’ve developed very specific planting skills over time. We take it seriously.”
She values honesty, loyalty, and authenticity — not just as words on a wall, but in the way she leads. Her personal why? Saving the earth for future generations.
And on quieter mornings, before the nursery fills with energy and movement, you might find her pausing to listen to the owls and frogs. That early stillness — like dancing alone in her living room — is a moment to breathe and remember what matters most.
Quickfire Round 🌱
Tea or coffee? Definitely tea.
Gumboots or barefoot? That’s a tough one! I love gumboots in winter, but if I could, I’d go barefoot. Staying grounded is important.
Best time of day at the nursery? Early morning, before anyone arrives — when you can still hear the owls and frogs.
Finish the sentence: “Trees are ______.”
Trees are God’s poetry.
Want to experience our nursery for yourself?
Visit us at www.trees-sa.co.za or email us at sales@trees-sa.co.za — we’d love to show you around.
