Fabaceae
Pterocarpus tinctorius
African Padauk · Mninga Maji
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This evergreen or semi-deciduous tree can grow up to 30 metres tall, featuring dark reddish-brown bark and young twigs covered in dense brown hairs. Its heartwood is pale yellow when freshly cut, gradually turning pinkish-red upon exposure. Flowers are cream to orange-yellow, and the fruit is a distinctive orbicular, flattened, one-seeded pod with a wavy, papery wing.
Where it works in Kilifi
Thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, this species is suitable for a Kilifi-coast garden or landscape as a shade tree or a timber specimen. It can adapt to various habitats, including riverine forests and wooded savannas, and can be planted with a spacing of 6x6m to 12x12m.
Growing notes
Pterocarpus tinctorius is a slow-growing tree, estimated to take up to 90 years to reach maturity. It can be propagated by seed or cuttings and prefers regular watering with spring fertilisation, although established trees show good drought tolerance. Sawdust from this species may cause irritation to workers.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: prota4u.org, plantnet.org, theferns.info, drcongoflora.com, mozambiqueflora.com, zambiaflora.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.