Anacardiaceae
Spirostachys venenifera
Mtanga
T
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This deciduous tree typically grows 5-7 metres tall, occasionally reaching 12 metres, with low-hanging, twiggy branches and dark grey, fissured bark. Its simple leaves are up to 6 cm long with shallowly toothed margins. Small, reddish-brown flowers are borne on narrow spikes up to 7 cm long, developing into 3-lobed fruits up to 1 cm long. The tree contains a poisonous milky latex.
Where it works in Kilifi
Suitable for various garden settings in Kilifi, thriving in rocky areas, river valleys, or swamps. It naturally occurs from sea level up to 1,450 metres and can be planted as a shade tree.
Growing notes
A critical caution for this species is its poisonous milky latex, which can irritate the eyes and potentially cause blindness.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: worldagroforestry.org, jstor.org, ku.dk. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.