Malphigiaceae
Acridocarpus zanzibaricus
Zanzibar Acridocarpus
S
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This attractive shrub grows up to 4 metres tall, sometimes taking a climbing or trailing habit. It features leathery, oblong to obovate-oblong leaves, typically 5-15 cm long, which are mostly smooth and have glands near their base. Bright yellow, star-shaped flowers, 2-3 cm in diameter, are presented in large terminal racemes, followed by distinctive obliquely semi-obovate winged fruits.
Where it works in Kilifi
This attractive shrub is well-suited for Kilifi coastal gardens, thriving in sunny, well-drained, dry, and rocky conditions. It makes an excellent specimen plant or part of a mixed hedge, attracting local butterflies as a larval food plant. Plant established shrubs approximately 1 metre apart.
Growing notes
Propagate this shrub from seed sown in spring in moist, well-drained soil, or from cuttings taken in spring or summer. Once established, it is likely tolerant of moderate water conditions and prefers full sun.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: jstor.org, kilifigarden.info.ke, selinawamucii.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.