Rubiaceae
Kraussia speciosa
S
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This multi-stemmed shrub or small tree, reaching up to 8 metres, is native to coastal forests of southeastern Kenya and Tanzania. It features dark green, leathery leaves arranged oppositely and large, stalked inflorescences with white to yellow tubular flowers. These are followed by small, round or two-lobed black berries, approximately 8-9 mm in diameter.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for coastal garden restoration or as an understory plant, it thrives in well-drained sandy or loamy coastal soils, including those derived from coral rag limestone. It can be placed in areas receiving full sun to partial shade, reflecting its natural habitat in coastal thickets and forest understories.
Growing notes
This species is adapted to seasonally dry tropical biomes, suggesting moderate water needs once established. It is naturally found at low elevations from 10 to 600 metres.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: grokipedia.com, kew.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.