Bigogniaceae
Fernandoa magnifica
Snake Tree · Mlangalangazuka
Canopy/Emergment Tree
17 small available right now.
About
This small to large tree, growing 2-20 metres tall, features rough, grey to pale brown bark. Its dark green, shiny, pinnate leaves have 4-7 pairs of leaflets, and it produces spectacular, bell-shaped, orange-red to pink flowers with a yellow centre, often when the tree is deciduous. The distinctive fruits are long, slender, spirally twisted, pale brown capsules, resembling snakes, typically 30-55 cm long.
Where it works in Kilifi
Thriving in full sun and well-drained, sandy soils, this species is ideal as a striking specimen tree in parks or large gardens, providing ample shade. Being indigenous to Kenya, including the Kilifi District, it is also highly suitable for local restoration projects.
Growing notes
Fernandoa magnifica exhibits a moderate to fast growth rate and is deciduous, typically shedding its leaves in late winter before flowering. Once established, it demonstrates moderate to high drought tolerance.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: treeworldwholesale.com, mozambiqueflora.com, zimbabweflora.co.zw, jstor.org, selinawamucii.com, marriedtoplants.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.