Ebenaceae
Diospyros loureiroana subsp. rufescens
T
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This species grows as a shrub or small tree, reaching up to 6 metres, sometimes 10 metres. It has rough, grey to blackish bark. Leaves are leathery, glossy green, obovate to elliptic, 3-11 cm long, often crowded at the branch ends and can be hairless or have hairs along the veins. Small, white flowers appear in axillary clusters, developing into fleshy, spherical yellow fruits, 1.5-2.5 cm in diameter, which are often almost entirely enclosed by persistent, leaf-like calyx lobes.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for sunny locations in a Kilifi-coast garden or landscape, it thrives in sandy, well-drained or poor soils. It can be utilised as a specimen tree, for informal shade, or in restoration plantings, especially in woodland and thicket environments.
Growing notes
This is a dioecious species, meaning both male and female plants must be grown to ensure fruit production. Once established, it is relatively hardy, adapted to tropical climates and moderate water regimes.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: mozambiqueflora.com, theferns.info, zimbabweflora.co.zw. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.