Ebenaceae

Diospyros zombensis

Zomba Ebony

Small/Medium Tree

Common species

Size

Quantity

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About

This small to medium-sized evergreen tree typically grows 5-7 metres tall, though it can reach up to 15 metres, with a trunk diameter of up to 30 cm. It produces white, bell-shaped flowers, and its unripe fruits are dark green, encased by loose bracts or an elongated green calyx. The seeds are small and black.

Where it works in Kilifi

Native to East and Southern Tropical Africa, including Kenya, this species thrives in partial to dappled shade within a Kilifi garden. It is suitable as an understory tree or a small specimen in a sheltered location where consistent moisture can be maintained.

Growing notes

Diospyros zombensis can be propagated from seeds or semi-hardwood cuttings; seeds require a moist, well-drained soil mix, and cuttings should be rooted in a similar medium. Once established, it tolerates seasonally dry conditions but prefers regular water to mimic its natural moist, shady habitats.

Sources

Researched with web grounding from: selinawamucii.com, zambiaflora.com, kew.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.