Ebenaceae
Diospyros shimbaensis
Shimba Ebony
T
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Shimba Ebony is an evergreen shrub or small to medium-sized tree, typically reaching up to 20 m tall, with a rounded crown and a single trunk. Its leaves are coppery when young, maturing to a leaden grey, oblong-elliptic, and subcoriaceous. It produces small, fragrant white flowers and yellow, ellipsoid fruits enclosed within an inflated, dark red to black calyx with shallow grooves.
Where it works in Kilifi
Native to Kenya's Kwale District, this tree thrives in lowland, semi-deciduous to dry forests at altitudes up to 450 m, making it suitable for similar coastal Kilifi conditions. It prefers well-drained, acidic to neutral soil in full sun to partial shade and is excellent for restoration or as an ornamental specimen.
Growing notes
Diospyros shimbaensis is best propagated from seed or cuttings and, once established, is drought tolerant, requiring little maintenance. Initial consistent watering is crucial, but reduce frequency as the tree matures, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: selinawamucii.com, jstor.org, picturethisai.com, researchgate.net. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.