Salvadoraceae
Salvadora persica var. cyclophylla
Toothbrush Tree · Mswaki
T
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This evergreen shrub or small tree typically grows 2-7 metres tall, featuring a crooked trunk and drooping branches. Its leaves are glabrous, succulent, broadly elliptic to oblong-elliptic, and broadly rounded at the apex, measuring 4–7 cm long and 2.8–4.5 cm wide. It produces small, greenish-yellow flowers and edible, fleshy, spherical fruits that ripen to pink or scarlet.
Where it works in Kilifi
Highly tolerant to salt and arid conditions, this tree thrives in coastal regions and saline soils, making it suitable for Kilifi gardens. It performs best in direct, bright sunlight, preferring well-draining sandy or loamy soils, and can be used as a specimen plant or for hedges.
Growing notes
Generally a slow-growing species, it is a low-maintenance plant once established. It requires very dry conditions and infrequent watering. Propagation can be done through seeds or cuttings, and pruning helps maintain its shape and size.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: nih.gov, worldagroforestry.org, wikipedia.org, jstor.org, cabidigitallibrary.org, earthone.io. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.