Fabaceae-Caesalpinaceae
Afzelia quanzensis
Pod mahogany · Mbambakofi
Canopy/Emergment Tree
80 small available right now.
About
A deep-rooted, deciduous canopy tree reaching up to 35m, with smooth, grey-green bark that flakes in circular patches. Its glossy dark green leaves are divided into 4-7 pairs of leaflets, with new growth appearing copper-coloured. Fragrant flowers display a single prominent orange-red petal with yellow veining, followed by large, woody, flat dark brown pods containing shiny black seeds, each with a distinctive bright red aril.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for Kilifi's coastal gardens and landscapes, this tree thrives in full sun and deep, well-drained sandy soils. It serves as an excellent specimen or shade tree due to its large, spreading crown and can be used for ecological restoration in coastal districts. Allow ample space, ideally planting individual trees approximately 4m apart.
Growing notes
Generally slow-growing but exhibits a fast growth rate of 50-60 cm per year when young. Once established, it is very drought-resistant, requiring infrequent watering, but is sensitive to frost. Young seedlings need protection from cold wind, and caution should be exercised as the roots are reported to be poisonous.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: worldagroforestry.org, sanbi.org, beyondforest.org, wikipedia.org, plantzafrica.com, capriviflora.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.