Fabaceae-Caesalpinaceae
Hymenaea verrucosa
Zanzibar Copal · Mtandarusi
Canopy/Emergment Tree
222 small available right now.
About
This flat-crowned evergreen tree typically grows 6-24 metres tall, occasionally reaching 40 metres, and is characterised by smooth, pale grey bark that becomes rough and fissured with age. Its compound leaves feature a single pair of asymmetric, glossy leaflets, and its white to pinkish flowers develop into unusual woody, ovoid pods covered with warty, resin-filled vesicles. Native to the East African coast, it is highly valued for its durable timber and the high-quality copal resin it produces, historically used in varnishes and incense.
Where it works in Kilifi
An ideal specimen for coastal Kilifi gardens and landscapes, this canopy tree thrives in full sun and well-drained, sandy soils. It is excellent for providing shade, contributing to restoration efforts in coastal woodlands, and stabilising erosion-prone sandy areas due to its deep root system.
Growing notes
This species exhibits a slow growth rate, and established trees are tolerant of seasonal dryness, preferring dry to moist, well-drained soil. Young saplings benefit from initial shade, while mature trees require full sun to develop their characteristic flat crown and clear bole.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: wikipedia.org, grokipedia.com, blogspot.com, theferns.info, worldagroforestry.org, nparks.gov.sg. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.