Celastraceae
Salacia erecta
L
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Salacia erecta is a scrambling shrub or liana, typically growing 1-7 metres tall, though it can reach up to 15 metres. It is characterised by its stems, which are initially olive-green to purplish and rugulose-tuberculate, becoming smoother with age. Its leaves are oblong to obovate with acuminate tips and shallowly rounded-denticulate margins, notable for their markedly undulating petioles. The plant produces greenish-yellow flowers, followed by orange, globose fruits that are 1.3-3 cm in diameter and typically 1-3 seeded, often appearing three-crested when young.
Where it works in Kilifi
This species is found in evergreen forests or thickets and is known to flower in Kilifi in September. It thrives in bright, indirect sunlight or dappled shade, making it suitable for underplanting taller trees or along forest edges. It requires well-draining soil and consistent moisture without becoming waterlogged.
Growing notes
Salacia erecta is considered to have a hard care difficulty. It prefers consistently warm temperatures and high humidity, and once established, it exhibits notable drought tolerance, requiring watering only every 2-3 weeks, allowing the soil to dry partially between sessions. Propagation can be challenging due to slow germination and growth rates.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: kew.org, jstor.org, cd3wdproject.org, picturethisai.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.