Burseraceae
Commiphora erosa
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Commiphora erosa is an unarmed, glabrous shrub or slender tree typically reaching up to 6 metres tall, with smooth, grey to whitish bark. Its delicate, 3-foliolate leaves dry yellowish-green, appearing with dark red flowers. The fruit are asymmetrically oblong-ellipsoid, containing a black, smooth stone covered by a distinctive four-armed pseudaril.
Where it works in Kilifi
This species thrives in open Acacia-Commiphora woodlands on silty alluvium near perennial rivers, and in dry shrubland biomes within its native range of Kenya and Ethiopia. It would be suitable for full sun in a Kilifi-coast garden, particularly in areas with well-drained soil, and can serve as a drought-tolerant specimen or restoration plant.
Growing notes
As a plant adapted to arid and dry shrubland biomes, Commiphora erosa is highly drought-tolerant once established. While a specific growth rate isn't detailed, many species in the genus are known for a medium growth rate.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: kew.org, jstor.org, pfaf.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.