Salicaceae
Dovyalis abyssinica
Abyssinian Gooseberry
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This evergreen shrub or small tree typically grows 6-10 metres tall, featuring a rounded crown and branches armed with sharp spines up to 4cm long. Its leaves are glossy, dark green, oval to oblong, and often have wavy or jagged edges. Small, inconspicuous greenish flowers appear, with male and female blooms borne on separate plants. The edible fruit is a small, round berry, ripening from green to orange-yellow, with juicy, acidic, apricot-scented flesh and a few flat seeds.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for a sunny to partially shaded spot in a Kilifi-coast garden, it thrives in well-drained, fertile soil. Its formidable spines make it an excellent choice for a security hedge or windbreak, and it can also be grown as a specimen or shade tree. It performs well near the seaside.
Growing notes
This species exhibits a medium growth rate and is drought-tolerant once established, though it benefits from regular watering during the growing season, especially during flowering and fruiting. As it is dioecious, both male and female plants are required for fruit production. Plants can start bearing fruit 4-5 years from seed.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: pfaf.org, permapeople.org, worldagroforestry.org, wikipedia.org, echocommunity.org, iplantz.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.