Ochnaceae
Ochna macrocalyx
dwarf ochna
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Ochna macrocalyx is a subshrub, shrub, or small tree, typically growing up to 2 metres tall, sometimes appearing as only leaves and stems from a woody base. It features leathery, oblanceolate to narrowly obovate leaves with serrulate margins. The plant produces short-lived yellow to orange flowers in axillary racemes, followed by a prominent, spreading, bright red calyx that persists after the flowers fade.
Where it works in Kilifi
Native to southeastern Kenya and seasonally dry tropical biomes, Ochna macrocalyx is well-suited for a Kilifi-coast garden. It can be planted as an ornamental shrub in full sun, thriving in open habitats and well-drained soils, or used in restoration efforts.
Growing notes
This species thrives in seasonally dry tropical climates, suggesting it is drought-tolerant once established. No specific cautions or unusual growth requirements are widely reported.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: Current time information in Kenya., grokipedia.com, wikipedia.org, malawiflora.com, zimbabweflora.co.zw, kew.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.