Annonaceae
Asteranthe asterias
Mkilua mwitu
S
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This evergreen shrub or small tree typically grows up to 8 metres tall, featuring young branches with dense grey or rust-coloured hairs. Its fragrant flowers have six petals that are green when young, maturing to a cream colour with deep purple highlights from their bases. The aromatic bark is locally used for food flavouring, and its roots and leaves have medicinal applications.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for Kilifi coast gardens, this species thrives in lowland evergreen forest conditions, often found along streams and on limestone soils. It can be planted as a specimen shrub or integrated into mixed native plantings, preferring full sun to partial shade.
Growing notes
This tropical evergreen is not frost-hardy and will benefit from consistent moisture, especially during its establishment phase. Once established, it is relatively low-maintenance, and no specific cautions or rapid growth rates are noted.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: kilifigarden.info.ke, wikipedia.org, theferns.info, jstor.org, prota4u.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.