Ebenaceae
Diospyros squarrosa
Rigid star-berry · Mpweke
Canopy/Emergment Tree
21 small available right now.
About
Diospyros squarrosa is a deciduous shrub or small tree, typically growing 2–10 metres tall, though some specimens can reach up to 12 metres. It features grey to brown bark that is smooth with shallow longitudinal fissures, sometimes flaking to black. The dull green leaves are obovate with conspicuous net-veining on the underside. Fragrant, creamy-white flowers with four petals appear in axillary clusters, followed by edible, fleshy, almost spherical fruit, approximately 2 cm in diameter, that ripen to a dark yellow colour and contain 8-10 seeds.
Where it works in Kilifi
This species is well-suited for a Kilifi-coast garden, thriving in full sun to partial shade and preferring well-drained, sandy soil. Its natural habitat includes stream verges, riverine forests, and rocky hillsides, making it an excellent choice for restoration projects, a specimen tree, or to provide shade in suitable garden areas.
Growing notes
Propagate this tree from seed, sown in a well-drained, sandy soil mix and kept consistently moist. Once established, Diospyros squarrosa is drought tolerant and requires little maintenance. Initial regular watering is crucial, becoming less frequent as the tree matures.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: mozambiqueflora.com, wikipedia.org, jstor.org, theferns.info, kilifigarden.info.ke, worldagroforestry.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.