Annonaceae
Monanthotaxis buchananii
Buchanan's dwaba-berry
L
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This scrambling shrub, liana, or small tree typically reaches 1.5-7.5 metres in height and has smooth bark. It features narrowly oblong to elliptic leaves, usually 4.5-10 cm long, which are shiny yellowish-green above and bluish-green beneath with wavy margins. Solitary or clustered lemon-yellow flowers are produced, followed by a cluster of up to ten ovoid carpels that ripen to orange-red.
Where it works in Kilifi
Suitable for Kilifi-coast gardens, this species thrives in understorey conditions within evergreen forests, thickets, and coastal sandforests, suggesting it can adapt to partial shade. It requires well-drained soil and can be cultivated as a climbing plant with support, a large shrub, or as part of restoration efforts.
Growing notes
Adapted to seasonally dry tropical biomes, this plant tolerates periods of dryness once established, although it also occurs in evergreen forests. It is crucial to provide well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: eplantai.com, kew.org, mozambiqueflora.com, africanplantdatabase.ch, ngkenya.com, malawiflora.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.