Sapindaceae
Lecaniodiscus fraxinifolius subsp. vaughanii
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Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Lecaniodiscus fraxinifolius subsp. vaughanii is a tree or shrub growing 4–21 m tall. It has dark to dull green, lanceolate or ovate-elliptic leaflets, 4–15 cm long and 1.3–4 cm wide, which are glabrescent except for the midrib. Its small, yellow-green or cream flowers are borne on separate male and female plants, followed by yellow-orange-pink, ovoid, hairy capsules approximately 1 cm long, containing an edible, blue-white fleshy aril around a hard seed.
Where it works in Kilifi
This species is native to coastal Kenya and thrives in forests, especially at edges and in disturbed areas. It prefers riverine fringes and woodland, avoiding red soils. It is suitable for large gardens or landscapes, providing good shade.
Growing notes
Seed germination is easy, and the tree responds well to coppicing, tolerating the lopping of large limbs. Once established, it is a hardy, long-lived species with very hard wood. Young leaves can attract insect larvae with irritating hairs.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: jstor.org, worldagroforestry.org, fao.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.