Apocynaceae
Raphionacme sp.
C
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This species of Raphionacme is a slender, perennial climber or liana, emerging from a swollen, often large, underground tuber. It produces twining stems up to 1.5 to 8 metres long, bearing simple, opposite leaves that can be dull green and somewhat fleshy. Small, star-shaped flowers with five petals, ranging in colour from light green, violet, magenta, or mottled green, appear from the upper leaf axils.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for a Kilifi-coast garden, this climber thrives in well-draining, sandy soil and prefers bright, indirect light to partial shade, mimicking its natural understory habitat. It can be used as a specimen plant to cover trellises or fences, or for ecological restoration, requiring support for its twining stems.
Growing notes
Generally a slow-growing plant, Raphionacme requires consistent moisture during its active growth period but must not be overwatered to prevent root rot. It enters dormancy in the dry season, during which watering should be significantly reduced. This species needs warmth, ideally above 12°C, and is sensitive to root disturbance when repotting.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: giromagicactusandsucculents.com, hscactus.org, llifle.com, malawiflora.com, mozambiqueflora.com, picturethisai.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.