Putranjivaceae
Drypetes reticulata
False Forest Ironplum · Mtsomatsanje
T
Available in our catalogue
We propagate this species and you can order it from our catalogue.
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This evergreen species is a multi-stemmed shrub or slender tree, typically growing 1-15 metres tall, with shiny, hairless elliptic to ovate leaves up to 12 cm long, notable for their conspicuous net-veining and entire, wavy margins. It produces scented, yellowish-green unisexual flowers, followed by shallowly two-lobed, velvety, orange to reddish-brown fleshy fruits around 1.2 cm. Found in coastal, sand, and evergreen forests, its wood is used for poles and tool handles, and it offers good shade.
Where it works in Kilifi
This species thrives in coastal and sand forest environments, making it ideal for Kilifi gardens. It serves well as a specimen or shade tree, adapting to various soil types and tolerating elevations from sea level up to 1,800 metres.
Growing notes
It can be propagated from seed or semi-hardwood cuttings, requiring well-drained, moist soil and a warm, humid environment for successful rooting. There are no known hazards associated with this plant.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: theferns.info, mozambiqueflora.com, selinawamucii.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.