Malvaceae

Grewia forbesii

Warty Donkey-berry · Mbavubavu

Liana

Common species

Size

Quantity

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About

Grewia forbesii is a much-branched shrub or small tree, growing up to 12 metres tall, with angled or fluted stems and roughly hairy branchlets. It bears yellow flowers in few-flowered, axillary heads. The distinctive fruits are shallowly 2-4 lobed, approximately 1.6 cm in diameter, and covered in warty protuberances.

Where it works in Kilifi

This coastal species thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. It is suitable for low-altitude woodland and general garden plantings along the Kilifi coast.

Growing notes

It can be propagated from seeds or cuttings in a warm, humid environment. Once established, it shows moderate drought tolerance, with optimal watering every 1-2 weeks, and benefits from mulching to maintain soil moisture.

Sources

Researched with web grounding from: malawiflora.com, jstor.org, mozambiqueflora.com, udsm.ac.tz, picturethisai.com, selinawamucii.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.