Combretaceae
Combretum pentagonum
C
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Combretum pentagonum is a woody climber or liana, native to southeastern Kenya and southern tropical Africa. It features papery, elliptic to obovate-elliptic leaves, up to 20 cm long, with densely pubescent undersides and sometimes spine-forming petioles. Fragrant flowers bloom in subcapitate spikes, presenting in shades of cream, pink, maroon, or crimson. The distinctive fruit is 5-angled and obovate in outline, measuring 2–4.5 cm long.
Where it works in Kilifi
Being indigenous to the Kilifi District and found in seasonally dry tropical woodlands and evergreen forests, this liana is well-suited for coastal gardens. It thrives when given support to climb, such as pergolas, fences, or mature trees, and is ideal for ecological restoration projects.
Growing notes
Adapted to seasonally dry tropical biomes, this species is likely drought-tolerant once established. It will prefer well-drained soil conditions characteristic of its native woodland and forest habitats.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: kew.org, jstor.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.