Clusiaceae
Garcinia volkensii
Volkens's Garcinia · Mkimwemwe
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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
Volkens's Garcinia is an evergreen tree or shrub, typically growing 2-10 metres tall, but capable of reaching 20 metres. It features a dark grey-black, ridged bark that exudes yellow to red latex when damaged. The stiff, leathery leaves are arranged in pairs or threes and the small, cream-green flowers emit a sweetish scent. It produces numerous edible, yellow-orange, oval fruits, about 2.5 cm in diameter, which have an acid-sweet taste and contain up to five seeds.
Where it works in Kilifi
This species is well-suited for a Kilifi-coast garden, thriving in full sun to partial shade and preferring well-drained soil. It functions effectively as a specimen plant, for shade, or in restoration efforts, and is found in evergreen forests, thickets, and on rocky outcrops.
Growing notes
Garcinia volkensii is a fairly fast-growing species that is drought tolerant once established. It requires regular watering during the growing season and benefits from fertilisation every few months. The young seedlings develop a strong root system before extensive shoot growth.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: worldagroforestry.org, selinawamucii.com, jstor.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.