Phyllanthaceae
Flueggea virosa
White-berry bush, Common bushweed · Mkwamba, Mteja
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Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This deciduous, fast-growing shrub often forms a multi-stemmed bush, reaching up to 4 metres tall, with reddish-brown bark and dense green leaves. It produces tiny, creamy-green flowers followed by small, round, edible white berries that ripen from pale green and are sweet with a slightly bitter taste. The berries are dispersed by birds.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for Kilifi-coast gardens, it thrives in full sun and a wide range of well-drained soils, including sandy and clay-sandy types. It can be used as a hardy specimen, a privacy hedge or screen, or in restoration plantings, attracting local birds and butterflies.
Growing notes
A fast-growing and hardy shrub, it establishes quickly and is low maintenance once settled. While drought-tolerant, it benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells. It can survive hot, dry conditions and even mild frost, though it is considered invasive in some regions outside its native range.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: prota4u.org, mdpi.com, sanbi.org, combonimissionaries.ie, wikipedia.org, blogspot.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.