Rubiaceae

Pyrostria bibracteata

False porcupine bush

Shrub

Common species

Size

Quantity

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About

This evergreen shrub or small tree, reaching 2-10 metres tall, features opposite, hairless, elliptic to broadly elliptic leaves up to 13.5 cm long, which become black-brown when dry. It produces small, yellowish-cream flowers in umbels and edible, round, yellow fruits 5-8 mm in diameter. It is naturally found in various woodlands, bushlands, and forest margins.

Where it works in Kilifi

Ideal for coastal gardens in Kilifi, this species thrives in sandy soils and can also be planted on coral rag, forming part of a bush clump or forest patch. It is suitable for restoration plantings in coastal woodlands and can be grown as an ornamental for its edible fruits, likely preferring some sun to partial shade, mirroring its natural habitat at forest edges.

Growing notes

Adapted to areas with a high water table, this plant likely requires consistently moist soil once established. While specific growth rate is not detailed, its natural occurrence in tropical Africa suggests it is suited to warm climates.

Sources

Researched with web grounding from: mozambiqueflora.com, theferns.info, jstor.org, zimbabweflora.co.zw. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.