Malvaceae
Grewia holstii
River Resin Bush
L
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Grewia holstii is a shrub or small tree, typically growing 2-10 metres tall, with oval to oblong, finely toothed leaves that are shiny green above and pale grey-white below. It produces fragrant golden-yellow flowers, followed by edible, single-lobed fruits that are hairy when young, ripening from orange to black. This species is native to the seasonally dry tropical biome of East Africa, from Southern Somalia to Northern Mozambique, and is found in Kenya's coastal lowlands to highlands in dry bushland.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for dry bushland gardens or restoration efforts on the Kilifi coast, this species thrives in full sun to partial shade. It tolerates varied soils including red clay, sandy, and rocky types, making it suitable for mixed native hedges or as a small garden tree.
Growing notes
Grewia holstii is a slow-growing species that benefits from regular watering to keep the soil moist, though it demonstrates moderate drought tolerance once established. Propagation can be achieved through seeds, which may benefit from scarification, or via stem cuttings.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: propagate.one, kew.org, worldagroforestry.org, picturethisai.com, mozambiqueflora.com, theferns.info. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.