Fabaceae-Mimosaceae

Parkia filicoidea

African locust bean · Mkundi

Canopy/Emergment Tree

Common species

Size

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About

A large, deciduous rainforest tree reaching 8-30 metres, known for its spreading, flat crown and often narrowly buttressed bole. It features bipinnate, feathery leaves and distinct bright red, club-shaped flower heads that hang on long stalks, emitting a strong, unpleasant scent. The tree produces dark brown-purple pods, 30-60 cm long, containing thick black seeds embedded in a sweet, mealy yellow pulp.

Where it works in Kilifi

This coastal species thrives in full sun within moist lowland evergreen or swamp forests, making it suitable for Kilifi gardens. It serves excellently as a large specimen or shade tree, and its nitrogen-fixing ability enhances soil fertility in restoration areas.

Growing notes

Parkia filicoidea exhibits a slow to moderate growth rate, typically reaching maturity after 30-50 years. While young plants benefit from regular watering and mulching, established trees with their deep taproots are notably tolerant of drought conditions. Seeds should be sown promptly after extraction, as they lack dormancy and deteriorate rapidly.

Sources

Researched with web grounding from: worldagroforestry.org, wikipedia.org, wellsforzoe.org, feedipedia.org, prota4u.org, greenshoot.app. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.