Apocynaceae
Pleioceras orientale
T
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Pleioceras orientale is a deciduous tree, typically growing 5–12 metres tall, characterised by pale brown bark and milky latex. Its densely hairy branchlets bear leathery, narrowly ovate to obovate leaves that are velvety or woolly. The flowers feature dark violet corolla tubes with yellow lobes tipped brownish-violet, while the dark green fruits are elongated follicles, 20–30 cm long, containing hairy seeds.
Where it works in Kilifi
This species thrives in seasonally dry tropical biomes, making it suitable for restoration projects or as a specimen tree in Kilifi's coastal forests and thickets. It prefers sandy soils and can be planted in areas mirroring its natural habitat at elevations from 300 to 750 metres.
Growing notes
Adapted to seasonally dry conditions, this tree is likely to be moderately drought-tolerant once established. Its milky latex may act as a deterrent to herbivores, a common characteristic within its family.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: grokipedia.com, jstor.org, kew.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.