Rhizophoraceae
Cassipourea euryoides
Velvet-fruit onionwood
T
Available in our catalogue
We propagate this species and you can order it from our catalogue.
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This evergreen shrub or small tree typically reaches up to 15 metres tall, occasionally 18 metres, often branching low on the trunk. It features leathery, dark green leaves and small, fragrant white flowers with laciniate petals. The fruits are distinctive, being small, subspherical, and densely velvety. Native to East tropical Africa, including Kenya, it thrives in dry evergreen or deciduous forests, woodlands, and savannas, sometimes in moist, acidic soils or amongst rocks, up to 800 metres altitude.
Where it works in Kilifi
This indigenous small to medium tree is well-suited as a specimen or shade tree in Kilifi coast gardens, particularly in areas mimicking dry evergreen forest or woodland conditions. It prefers well-drained, sandy soils and can be used for restoration projects.
Growing notes
It is a fast-growing species that can be propagated by seed or cuttings. Once established, it is relatively low-maintenance, thriving in well-drained, moist sandy soils. Be aware that fine sawdust from its wood can cause skin irritation.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: selinawamucii.com, theferns.info, jstor.org, africanplantdatabase.ch, kew.org, worldagroforestry.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.