Moraceae
Maclura africana
African Osage-orange
T
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
A scrambling shrub or small evergreen tree, Maclura africana can reach 4-8 metres in height and features pale grey-brown, vertically fissured stems with spiny branchlets. Its simple, leathery, elliptic leaves are glossy dark green, and it produces spherical, edible, grey to orange fruits from separate male and female flowers. The wood is traditionally used to extract a yellow dye, and its roots and leaves have medicinal applications.
Where it works in Kilifi
This species thrives in full sun and is well-suited for coastal gardens in Kilifi, particularly in drier areas, along watercourses, or on coral rock. Its spiny nature makes it suitable for boundary planting or as a specimen tree, requiring adequate space to grow.
Growing notes
It is moderately fast-growing and, once established, is relatively drought-tolerant, preferring well-drained soil. This dioecious species requires both male and female plants for fruit production, and its branches are armed with spines.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: sanbi.org, biodiversityexplorer.info, mozambiqueflora.com, plantly.io, nih.gov, theferns.info. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.