Combretaceae
Combretum apiculatum
Red bushwillow
T
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This semi-deciduous, small to medium-sized tree, typically 4-10 metres tall, features rough, fissured grey-black bark and leaves that often taper to a twisted tip, turning reddish or golden in autumn. It produces fragrant creamy-green to yellow flowers in spikes, followed by distinctive 4-winged, reddish-brown fruits. The hard, termite-resistant wood is valued for timber and firewood, and its foliage serves as fodder for wildlife, though the seeds are toxic to livestock.
Where it works in Kilifi
This tree is well-suited for a Kilifi-coast garden or landscape as a shade or specimen tree, thriving in full sun and well-drained, humus-rich to rocky soils. Its drought resistance once established makes it suitable for semi-arid garden conditions.
Growing notes
It is a slow to moderate-growing deciduous tree that becomes highly drought-resistant once established. While generally hardy, caution should be exercised as its fruits contain seeds that are poisonous to livestock.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: sanbi.org, wikipedia.org, google.com, feedipedia.org, botswanaflora.com, mozambiqueflora.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.