Oleaceae
Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata
African Wild Olive · Mchafu
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This attractive evergreen tree boasts dense, grey-green foliage and a compact crown, providing year-round visual appeal. It produces small, dark purple, olive-like fruits that are a valuable food source for various bird species and other wildlife.
Where it works in Kilifi
Thriving in full sun and well-drained soils, this robust tree makes an excellent specimen plant or a dense, informal hedge. It is also ideal for coastal restoration, providing habitat and contributing to local biodiversity.
Growing notes
Exhibiting a moderate growth rate, this tree is highly drought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal supplemental watering. It is very hardy and adaptable to various coastal conditions, making it a low-maintenance choice.
Sources
Drafted from: Gemini 2.5 Flash. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.