Capparaceae
Maerua triphylla var. pubescens
Small bead-bean · Msingizi
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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
This much-branched shrub occasionally grows into a small tree, typically reaching over 2 metres in height. Its leaves are usually trifoliate with elliptic leaflets, where the terminal leaflet is notably larger. The small, green-white flowers feature numerous prominent stamens, and these develop into cylindrical, often constricted, bean-like fruits that can be up to 10 cm long and are pale yellow to creamy brown and furry.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for a Kilifi-coast garden, this shrub thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained, organic-rich soil. It is well-suited for restoration, particularly in rocky sites, and can also be planted as an ornamental or in bushland and grassland settings.
Growing notes
Maerua triphylla var. pubescens exhibits a moderate growth rate, with recorded annual height increases of 10-15 cm in Tanzania. Once established, it requires thorough watering and benefits from mulching to retain soil moisture, being adapted to dry conditions. Caution is advised as branches and roots of some Maerua species contain toxic substances.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: mozambiqueflora.com, jstor.org, worldagroforestry.org, zimbabweflora.co.zw, selinawamucii.com, nih.gov. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.