Clusiaceae
Garcinia buchananii
Granite Garcinia
T
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
An evergreen under-storey tree typically growing 6-13 metres tall, forming a dense, dark crown, with all parts exuding a sticky yellow sap. It has thick, leathery, shiny dark green leaves, small white to orange flowers, and edible, acidic, yellow-orange berries up to 2.5 cm across. Valued for its hard yellow timber, firewood, and Vitamin C-rich fruit, its bark extracts are also traditionally used as an anti-diarrheal remedy.
Where it works in Kilifi
Suitable for Kilifi-coast gardens, thriving in full to partial sun and well-drained, sandy loams, including coastal forest on pure sand. It functions well as an ornamental, shade tree, or for restoration, requiring consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Growing notes
Propagation is best from pre-soaked or scarified seeds. This species prefers consistent moisture once established, tolerating short dry spells, and is hardy in tropical zones 10-12, though young plants may need frost protection.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: theferns.info, worldagroforestry.org, zimbabweflora.co.zw, malawiflora.com, nih.gov, researchgate.net. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.