Fabaceae-Papilionaceae
Crotalaria agatiflora
Canary Bird Bush · Mfunda mweupe
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Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This much-branched evergreen shrub typically grows between 1.5 and 4 metres tall, though it can reach up to 10 metres. It features greyish-green trifoliate leaves and produces showy, pale yellow flowers in long, hanging clusters that resemble small birds. The flowers are followed by smooth, inflated greenish-purple pods up to 10 cm long, containing seeds that rattle when dry. All parts of the plant are considered poisonous.
Where it works in Kilifi
Well-suited for a Kilifi-coast garden, it thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained, sandy soil enriched with organic matter. It can be grown as a specimen shrub, used for screening, or trained as a climbing plant on pergolas and fences.
Growing notes
A fast-growing species, `Crotalaria agatiflora` establishes easily from seed. It requires regular watering until established, after which it can tolerate lower water levels. Light pruning after flowering helps maintain its shape and encourages re-bloom. It is important to note that all parts of the plant are poisonous.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: worldagroforestry.org, sanbi.org, consultaplantas.com, smgrowers.com, plantmaster.com, plantlust.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.