Fabaceae-Caesalpinaceae
Cynometra greenwayi
T
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This indigenous tree typically grows up to 10 metres tall, featuring distinctive flaking grey-brown bark. Its leathery, dark green leaves are comprised of four obovate to obovate-elliptic leaflets. The tree produces white, sweetly scented flowers and develops glabrous, green pods measuring approximately 5.7 cm long when immature.
Where it works in Kilifi
Native to the Kilifi District, this tree thrives in sand dunes with scattered coral rock outcrops within desert or dry shrubland biomes. It is an excellent choice for coastal gardens, restoration efforts, or as a shade tree, contributing to soil stability and fertility due to its genus's known nitrogen-fixing and erosion control benefits.
Growing notes
Adapted to dry shrubland, it is highly drought-tolerant once established in well-drained, sandy or coral-rich soils. While no specific growth rate is documented, it is expected to be moderate, typical of trees in its native habitat.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: kew.org, jstor.org, picturethisai.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.