Fabaceae-Caesalpinaceae
Guilandina bonduc
Nicker Nut · Mkomwe, Mnamu, Mburuga
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Guilandina bonduc is a scrambling shrub or climber, often reaching up to 15 metres long, characterised by stems and leaves armed with recurved prickles. It produces bipinnate leaves and racemes of greenish-yellow flowers. The distinctive fruit is a spiny, oblong pod containing one to two hard, leaden-grey seeds that are buoyant and aid in dispersal.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for coastal Kilifi gardens in full sun, this vigorous, thorny plant serves as an excellent security hedge or for restoration in disturbed, sandy areas and dunes. Its nitrogen-fixing capabilities enrich the soil, making it a good cover crop. Ensure ample spacing due to its sprawling and clumping growth habit.
Growing notes
Thriving in warm temperatures and bright, direct sunlight, Nicker Nut prefers well-draining loamy soil but tolerates various soil types. It is drought-tolerant once established, benefiting from regular watering during the growing season. Propagation is via scarified and soaked seeds. Be aware that the raw seeds are toxic if ingested.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: wikipedia.org, theferns.info, levypreserve.org, nparks.gov.sg, mozambiqueflora.com, hawaii.edu. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.