Araceae
Gonatopus boivinii
Giraffe's Knees · wanga-mke
H
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This robust perennial herb can grow up to 1.2 metres tall, featuring a solitary, three-pinnate leaf on a thick, fleshy stalk with a distinctive knee-like swelling in the middle. Its leaflets are rhombic, mid to dark green with prominent venation, and the petiole often exhibits dull greyish-silver with olive green mottling and dark brown-black spots. Creamy-yellow flowers appear with the leaf, enclosed by a spathe up to 22 cm long.
Where it works in Kilifi
Well-suited for a Kilifi-coast garden in full sun to partial shade, or filtered light, provided the soil is moist and well-drained. Given its tendency to spread via regenerating leaflets, it is best placed as an ornamental in containers or areas where its spread can be easily managed.
Growing notes
This species has a moderate growth rate and, once established, is drought-tolerant and requires minimal maintenance. It prefers moderate watering, with frequency reduced when the plant enters dormancy (leaves yellow and wither), and increased when new shoots emerge. The sap can cause skin irritation and may be toxic, so keep it away from children and pets.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: mozambiqueflora.com, zambiaflora.com, wikipedia.org, nparks.gov.sg, blogspot.com, selinawamucii.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.