Rubiaceae
Crossopteryx febrifuga
Ordeal tree · mzwale
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This deciduous shrub or small tree typically grows 4–5 metres tall, occasionally reaching 15 metres, with a rounded crown and pendulous branchlets. It features pale grey to dark brown, scaly bark, elliptic to ovate leaves with conspicuous net-veining, and dense terminal heads of fragrant, creamy-white to pale yellow flowers. The fruits are globose, dark purple to black capsules.
Where it works in Kilifi
Suited for sunny, well-drained sites, this indigenous tree thrives in savanna and woodland conditions, including rocky areas. It serves well as a specimen or shade tree and is valuable for ecological restoration in fire-prone landscapes, being noted in savanna-like places within the nearby Shimba Hills.
Growing notes
Preferring full sun and well-drained, slightly acidic soils, this species is notably fire-tolerant once established. Its deciduous nature suggests a moderate growth rate and, once mature, it is likely to be drought-resilient.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: nmppdb.com.ng, mozambiqueflora.com, worldagroforestry.org, theferns.info, google.com, worldbotanical.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.