Boraginaceae
Cordia sinensis
Desert Manjak
T
Available in our catalogue
We propagate this species and you can order it from our catalogue.
View in catalogue →About
This hardy small tree or large shrub is celebrated for its clusters of sweet, edible, and sticky fruits, often enjoyed locally. Its attractive grey-green foliage provides a pleasant contrast in arid landscapes, making it a valuable addition to dry gardens.
Where it works in Kilifi
Thriving in full sun and well-drained soils typical of the Kilifi coast, this species is ideal as a small specimen tree, a low screening plant, or for dryland restoration. Allow ample space for its spreading habit, roughly 3-5 metres between plants.
Growing notes
It exhibits a moderate growth rate and is exceptionally drought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal watering. This very hardy plant tolerates poor soils and coastal conditions, making it low-maintenance.
Sources
Drafted from: Gemini 2.5 Flash. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.