Euphorbiaceae
Shirakiopsis elliptica
Jumping-seed tree
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Shirakiopsis elliptica is a small to medium-sized tree, capable of reaching 12 metres in height, occasionally up to 50 metres, and features a thin, open, rounded crown. Its leathery leaves are elliptic, oblong or lanceolate, dark green above and paler below, with distinctive toothed or scalloped margins and 2-4 glands near the base. It produces yellow, catkin-like flower spikes, followed by reddish-brown, 1-2-lobed fruits, approximately 10 × 7 mm in size.
Where it works in Kilifi
This adaptable tree is well-suited for a Kilifi-coast garden or landscape, thriving in forest margins and seasonally dry tropical biomes. It can serve as an excellent specimen or shade tree in locations with full sun to partial shade. Its presence can enhance biodiversity and air quality in the garden.
Growing notes
This species typically demonstrates a moderate growth rate and, once established, is likely to be resilient in seasonally dry conditions, requiring moderate water. It prefers warm, tropical climates. Like other members of its family, it produces milky latex, which may be a mild irritant.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: theferns.info, zimbabweflora.co.zw, mozambiqueflora.com, wikipedia.org, kew.org, enrcso.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.