Annonaceae
Ophrypetalum odoratum
Orchid stem-flower
S
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Ophrypetalum odoratum is a shrub or small tree, typically growing 2.4 to 9 metres tall, characterised by grey, somewhat fissured bark. It features elliptic to obovate leaves that are thin, green above, and paler beneath with delicate reticulate venation. The scented, pale yellow or brownish flowers can appear solitary or in clusters, sometimes when the plant is leafless, and its young buds are reminiscent of grass spikelets. Its fruits are fusiform, velvety brown monocarps, measuring 5-6.8 cm long. Native to southeastern Kenya and eastern Tanzania, this species thrives primarily in wet tropical lowland biomes, and its roots and leaves contain bioactive compounds reported to have antifungal properties.
Where it works in Kilifi
As a species native to the wet tropical lowlands of coastal East Africa, Ophrypetalum odoratum is well-suited for gardens and landscapes in Kilifi. It can serve as an attractive specimen plant or be incorporated into mixed indigenous plantings, preferring conditions that mimic its natural humid, lowland environment.
Growing notes
This species is often deciduous, flowering when it is leafless. It requires consistent moisture, especially during establishment, reflecting its natural habitat in wet tropical biomes.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: kew.org, mindat.org, jstor.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.