Phyllanthaceae
Cleistanthus schlechteri
False Tamboti
Small/Medium Tree
49 small available right now.
About
This deciduous small to medium-sized tree typically reaches up to 6 metres, though it can grow to 15 metres in some coastal environments. Its bark is pale buff-grey or dark grey-brown, often cracking into rectangular blocks or a grid-like pattern. It bears small, glossy, dark green elliptic leaves and small, sweetly scented yellow-green flowers, followed by 3-lobed, hairless, yellow-green fruits.
Where it works in Kilifi
Well-suited for Kilifi coastal gardens, this tree thrives in full sun and well-draining sandy soils, including those over coral rag. It is an excellent choice for specimen planting, shade, or for use in restoration of coastal woodlands.
Growing notes
Once established, this moderately drought-tolerant tree requires minimal watering. It is hardy and adapted to East African climates, though care should be taken not to overwater.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: wikipedia.org, mozambiqueflora.com, zimbabweflora.co.zw, malawiflora.com, sanbi.org, picturethisai.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.