Combretaceae
Combretum holstii
Mozambique burning-bush combretum
L
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Combretum holstii is a woody climber or scandent shrub reaching up to 7 metres. Its oblong-elliptic leaves feature a distinct curved spine at the base of the petiole. The plant produces striking crimson or purplish-red flowers in axillary spikes, followed by shiny, 5-winged, broadly elliptic fruits.
Where it works in Kilifi
Thriving in full sun and well-drained soils, this species is ideal for coastal forest and riverine restoration, as well as for growing on fences or trellises as a liana in Kilifi gardens. It is naturally found in woodland and riverine forest at low altitudes (0–300 m) in coastal Kenya.
Growing notes
Once established, this tropical plant prefers moderate watering but can tolerate periods of drought. Propagation is primarily by fresh seeds, though germination rates can be low, sometimes as little as 3-5%, with high seedling mortality.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: jstor.org, africanplantdatabase.ch, pfaf.org, researchgate.net, nih.gov, consultaplantas.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.