Celastraceae
Salacia elegans
L
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Salacia elegans is a woody climber or creeping shrub that can reach up to 40 metres long. Its stems are often flattened, reddish-purple with white spots, and its opposite leaves are typically glossy deep green above, with finely toothed or crenate-serrate margins. It produces small, fragrant greenish, yellow, cream, or orange-yellow flowers, followed by globose, orange to red fruits, 1-2.5 cm across, containing 1-2 seeds.
Where it works in Kilifi
This tropical liana is well-suited for humid locations within Kilifi's coastal gardens, thriving in forest and woodland settings up to 250 metres altitude. It can be utilised for forest restoration or as a climbing specimen, requiring robust support for its extensive growth.
Growing notes
Native to tropical regions of East Africa, including Kenya, and found near sea level, it prefers humid conditions. The plant produces edible fruits.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: helloplants.org, jstor.org, nih.gov. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.