Rubiaceae
Psychotria crassipetala
Kenyan coffee Tree
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This small tree or shrub typically grows 3.5–10 metres tall, featuring elliptic to broadly elliptic leaves that are smooth and thinly leathery. It produces small, white or cream flowers in much-branched panicles, followed by greenish-blue, subglobose fruits approximately 8 mm in diameter. It is native to montane evergreen forests and coastal lowland forests in southeastern Kenya and adjacent Tanzania.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for shaded areas in a Kilifi-coast garden, this species thrives in humid conditions and can serve as an understory specimen or in restoration plantings. It prefers well-drained, loamy soil rich in organic matter.
Growing notes
This plant requires consistent moisture and high humidity, preferring damp, well-drained soil and partial to full shade away from intense afternoon sun. It is sensitive to cold temperatures and benefits from a balanced, slow-release fertiliser at half strength.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: grokipedia.com, jstor.org, picturethisai.com, rngr.net. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.