Burseraceae
Commiphora edulis subsp. boiviniana
S
Available in our catalogue
We propagate this species and you can order it from our catalogue.
View in catalogue →About
This deciduous shrub or small tree can reach up to 8 metres in height, featuring greyish, smooth, peeling bark. Its leaves are pinnately compound with 3–9 leaflets, typically elliptic to obovate with crenate-serrate margins. It produces small greenish-yellow flowers and fleshy, ovoid to ellipsoid fruits that are 15–20 mm long.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for dry, sunny locations in Kilifi, this species thrives in well-drained soil, making it suitable for xeriscaping, restoration projects, or as a specimen plant in a bushland garden. It tolerates altitudes from 5 to 300 metres and is found in dry shrubland biomes.
Growing notes
This plant has a moderate growth rate and is highly drought-tolerant once established. It requires minimal watering, ideally every 2-3 weeks in arid conditions, as overwatering can lead to root rot. Ensure it is planted in a sunny location with excellent drainage.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: kew.org, exotic-plants.de, nih.gov, researchgate.net, giromagicactusandsucculents.com, picturethisai.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.