Buxaceae
Buxus obtusifolia
S
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Buxus obtusifolia is an evergreen shrub or small tree, typically growing up to 6 metres tall, native to southeastern Kenya and eastern Tanzania. It features small, simple, oval-shaped leaves. The plant is often found in dry wooded bushland and scrubby forests on red soils, and has traditional medicinal uses for treating chest ailments.
Where it works in Kilifi
This species is well-suited for restoration plantings in dry forest and bushland habitats along the Kilifi coast, thriving in full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-drained soils, including red soils, and can be spaced as a specimen or in groups for naturalistic landscaping.
Growing notes
As a member of the Buxus genus, it is generally a slow-growing plant. Once established, it tolerates drought but benefits from deep, infrequent watering during prolonged dry periods; newly planted specimens require consistent moisture for the first 1.5 to 2 years. Caution: The plant is toxic if ingested by humans and animals.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: wikipedia.org, africanplantdatabase.ch, kew.org, preprints.org, osu.edu, whiteflowerfarm.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.