Salicaceae

Dovyalis keniensis

Kenya Gooseberry

Shrub

IUCN: EndangeredRare speciesNotes pending review

Size

Quantity

655 small available right now.

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About

This thorny evergreen shrub is endemic to Kenya and produces abundant tart, edible orange-red fruits. Its dense foliage provides excellent cover and sustenance for local birdlife, making it a valuable addition to a wildlife-friendly garden.

Where it works in Kilifi

Thriving in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils, this shrub is excellent for creating a dense, thorny security hedge or a natural screen. It can also be planted as a specimen for its attractive fruit and wildlife appeal, or included in restoration plantings.

Growing notes

It exhibits a moderate growth rate and, once established, is remarkably drought-tolerant, requiring minimal supplemental watering. Be mindful of its thorns when handling or planting in high-traffic areas.

Sources

Drafted from: Gemini 2.5 Flash. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.