Sapotaceae
Sideroxylon inerme subsp. diospyroides
White milkwood
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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 up to 15 metres tall, often with a gnarled appearance. It features leathery, spirally arranged leaves that are dark green above and paler beneath, sometimes with rusty hairs when young. Small, greenish-white flowers with a strong, unpleasant smell appear in clusters, followed by fleshy, spherical, purplish-black fruits containing milky latex.
Where it works in Kilifi
A resilient choice for Kilifi's coastal gardens, this species thrives in full sun or semi-shade, tolerating sandy, clay, loamy, and even saline soils. It is ideal as a specimen or shade tree and forms an excellent firebreak. Plant it where it receives some protection from direct, salt-laden sea winds.
Growing notes
Growth is initially slow but accelerates once established. Provide regular, deep watering for optimal growth, though it can endure periods of drought. Propagation is successful from seeds, which germinate in 4–6 weeks, or from semi-mature cuttings, which root in 6–8 weeks.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: zimbabweflora.co.zw, mozambiqueflora.com, theferns.info, wikipedia.org, worldagroforestry.org, prota4u.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.