Acanthaceae
Barleria argentea
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This is a low-growing, branched subshrub, typically 10–30 cm tall, often forming a rosette of stems. Its young stems have a silvery tinge due to dense, appressed hairs. The leaves are narrow, ranging from oblanceolate to linear, and its flowers, 8–18 mm long, can be white, blue, or pinkish. The fruit is a silky, two-seeded capsule with a linear-conic beak.
Where it works in Kilifi
Native to East Tropical Africa, this subshrub thrives in desert and dry shrubland biomes, suggesting it is well-suited for hot, arid conditions. In a Kilifi-coast garden, it would be appropriate for sunny, well-drained spots, potentially as a low ornamental or for xeriscaping.
Growing notes
As a hardy subshrub, it prefers full sun and well-drained soils, tolerating dry conditions once established. Propagation can be achieved through seeds or cuttings.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: jstor.org, kew.org, agronomyjournals.com, sanbi.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.