Capparaceae
Maerua triphylla
Small bead bean · Msingizi
S
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This deciduous shrub or small tree typically reaches up to 9 metres, featuring dense, pendulous branches. Its leaves are either simple or trifoliate, with the central leaflet being noticeably larger, and have a rounded or notched tip. Small, green-white flowers with prominent stamens precede cylindrical to globose fruits, which are pale creamy brown, up to 10 cm long, and often constricted between the seeds.
Where it works in Kilifi
Well-suited for a Kilifi-coast garden, it thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It can be planted as a specimen shrub, a backdrop in mixed borders, or for soil reclamation, particularly on rocky sites.
Growing notes
Maerua triphylla exhibits a moderate growth rate, with young plants growing approximately 10-15 cm in height annually. It establishes well with thorough watering upon planting and mulching to retain moisture. Established plants are hardy and require minimal additional watering.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: plantnet.org, mozambiqueflora.com, worldagroforestry.org, jstor.org, selinawamucii.com, semanticscholar.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.