Asteraceae
Gymnanthemum hildebrandtii
Mlaza-koma
S
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Gymnanthemum hildebrandtii is a woody, scandent shrub native to East Tropical Africa, including Kenya and Tanzania. It is a popular nectar source for butterflies and its roots are used in traditional medicine. The species is known to self-seed and can be slightly invasive.
Where it works in Kilifi
This native Kenyan species is well-suited for a Kilifi-coast garden, particularly for attracting butterflies or in restoration projects. Its scandent habit means it can be trained or allowed to scramble, but its slightly invasive nature may require active management to contain its spread.
Growing notes
Gymnanthemum hildebrandtii can be readily propagated from seeds, cuttings, or wildlings. Its robust, self-seeding nature and potential for slight invasiveness indicate it is a vigorous grower that may need pruning to manage its shape and size.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: nordic-baltic-genebanks.org, kilifigarden.info.ke. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.