Arecaceae
Hyphaene compressa
East African doum palm · Mkoma
T
Available in our catalogue
We propagate this species and you can order it from our catalogue.
View in catalogue →About
This robust, erect palm tree typically grows 10-20 metres tall, uniquely displaying dichotomous branching, unlike most other palm species. It features large, fan-shaped leaves with spiny stalks. The tree produces orange to brown, flattened, edible fruits that hang in bunches.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for coastal Kilifi landscapes in full sun, especially in open grasslands or along water bodies, as it thrives where there is a high water table. It tolerates salty, calcareous, and alkaline soils, making it suitable as a specimen or for restoration plantings in appropriate conditions.
Growing notes
A slow-growing and long-lived palm, capable of reaching 100 years of age, it is highly drought and fire resistant once established. It requires full sun and heat to flourish and is best propagated by direct sowing due to its deep taproot, rather than being grown in a nursery for transplanting.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: wikipedia.org, palmpedia.net, worldagroforestry.org, wordpress.com, monaconatureencyclopedia.com, infonet-biovision.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.