Rubiaceae
Polysphaeria lanceolata
Polysphaeria
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Polysphaeria lanceolata is an evergreen shrub or small tree, reaching up to 4 metres tall. It features glossy, dark green, thinly leathery leaves that are lanceolate to narrowly elliptic, up to 15 cm long with a sharply pointed apex. Flowers appear in compact axillary heads, showcasing white, pale lilac, or pinkish funnel-shaped corollas about 7 mm in diameter with a densely hairy throat. Fruits are fleshy, subspherical, and grow in dense clusters, maturing from blue-green to red or purple-black, crowned by the persistent calyx lobes.
Where it works in Kilifi
This species thrives in riverine and dry evergreen forest conditions, indicating a preference for moist, well-drained soils and partial shade to full sun. It can be planted as a specimen tree in larger gardens or used for ecological restoration along watercourses and in coastal forest margins within the Kilifi region.
Growing notes
Adapted to tropical climates, it requires consistent moisture, particularly in its early stages, though established plants can tolerate seasonal dry periods. It is found at altitudes from sea level up to 1050 m. Its conservation status is considered Least Concern.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: malawiflora.com, mozambiqueflora.com, zimbabweflora.co.zw, nih.gov, biofund.org.mz. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.