Sapotaceae
Englerophytum natalense
Silver-leaved Milkplum
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This evergreen tree typically grows as a large shrub or small to medium tree, featuring attractive, pearly silver-green foliage that is glossy above and densely covered with silvery hairs beneath. It produces decorative, edible fruits that ripen to bright red or dark purple, and all parts of the plant contain a milky, non-toxic latex. Native to East and Southern African coastal and evergreen forests, it reaches heights of 4-12 metres, occasionally up to 25 metres.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for a Kilifi-coast garden in partial to deep shade, this species thrives in well-drained, moisture-retentive, loamy, silty, or slightly clay soils rich in organic matter. It can be planted as a specimen tree, for shade, or grouped in groves within a landscape.
Growing notes
This is a relatively slow-growing tree, typically expanding by 300-400 mm per year under ideal conditions. It is water-loving once established, preferring areas with high groundwater tables, and is not resistant to frost or drought. Young plants require 2-3 years in containers before transplanting.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: cjmgrowers.co.za, grokipedia.com, wikipedia.org, sanbi.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.