Sapindaceae
Allophylus pervillei
Perville's Allophylus · Mvundza kondo
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This small to medium-sized evergreen shrub or small tree typically grows to 4-5 metres, but can reach 8 metres, or even appear as a climber. Its leaves can be unifoliolate or trifoliolate, often drying to a bright brown beneath. Inconspicuous greenish, white, or cream flowers bloom in clusters, giving way to bright red, globose or obovoid fruits, 7–9 mm long, with a fine pubescence.
Where it works in Kilifi
Native to coastal East Africa, including Southeast Kenya, this species thrives in seasonally dry tropical biomes, scrublands, and dry forests. It is an excellent choice for a Kilifi garden as an ornamental plant or hedge, tolerating full sun to partial shade in well-drained, organically rich soil.
Growing notes
This species is moderately drought-tolerant once established, preferring the soil to dry slightly between waterings (every 2-3 weeks). It can be propagated from seeds or semi-hardwood cuttings.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: selinawamucii.com, jstor.org, picturethisai.com, kew.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.