Sterculiaceae
Melhania velutina
Velvety Melhania · akwanga
H
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This erect perennial herb or subshrub typically grows to 1 metre tall, occasionally reaching 2.5 metres. It features ovate to broadly ovate leaves, up to 13 cm long, covered with stellate hairs that are often reddish-brown along the veins, giving a velvety texture. Flowers are yellow, sometimes with a white centre, borne singularly or in small clusters, followed by ovoid, tomentose capsules containing 4–12 seeds.
Where it works in Kilifi
Well-suited for restoration projects in woodlands, grasslands, and bushland areas, or as an ornamental specimen in a Kilifi garden. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil.
Growing notes
This species can be propagated from cuttings or seed, though growth from seed is slow and may take several years to reach maturity. Once established, it is relatively hardy and adapted to seasonally dry tropical biomes.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: kew.org, selinawamucii.com, wikipedia.org, bioone.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.