Rubiaceae
Meyna tetraphylla subsp. comorensis
Mtamba kiko
S
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This coastal shrub or small tree grows in seasonally dry tropical biomes and is native to Somalia, Tanzania, and the Comoros, extending to the Kenyan coast. It is characterised by strong paired spines above leaf nodes and glossy yellow-green leaves. Cream-green flowers are densely clustered in leaf axils, leading to a round, somewhat 5-angled berry up to 2 cm across. The subspecies *comorensis* specifically features hairless fruit and young branches.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for coastal bushland and forest settings in Kilifi, thriving in open, sunny locations with deep sandy or rocky soils. Its spiny nature makes it suitable for live fencing or as a restoration plant in dry, indigenous landscapes.
Growing notes
Adapted to seasonally dry tropical conditions and can be found in various agroclimatic zones. The ripe fruits are fleshy and sweet, attracting pastoralists. Roots are occasionally used to produce arrow poison.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: kew.org, worldagroforestry.org, cd3wdproject.org, your.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.