Putranjivaceae
Drypetes usambarica var. mrimae
T
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This indigenous tree is a variety of Drypetes usambarica, first recorded on Mrima Hill in Kenya's Kwale District, extending its distribution into Tanzania. It typically grows as a small to medium-sized tree with a straight trunk and horizontally spreading branches. The genus is characterised by simple, alternate leaves with often unequal bases, and its inconspicuous flowers may appear directly on the branches or trunk. The hard wood is traditionally used for pestles, mortars, poles, and tool handles, and the tree provides good shade.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for coastal Kilifi gardens and landscapes, this tree thrives in lowland forest conditions, preferring areas with some shade rather than full, direct sunlight. Its moderate size makes it suitable as a specimen tree or for providing natural shade. As a native species, it is excellent for restoration plantings in appropriate forest settings.
Growing notes
Drypetes usambarica var. mrimae is a dioecious species, requiring both male and female plants for fruit production. Young plants exhibit fast growth, with a reported mean annual height increment of 1.1 metres over the first four years, slowing as the tree matures. It is a shade-tolerant pioneer species with no known hazards.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: plazi.org, theferns.info, jstor.org, mobot.org, ijiras.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.