Malvaceae
Sterculia rhynchocarpa
Chirinda Chestnut
T
Available in our catalogue
We propagate this species and you can order it from our catalogue.
View in catalogue →About
This attractive small to medium-sized tree is highly valued for its striking display of reddish-pink to crimson flowers, which often emerge before the foliage. These are followed by interesting clusters of boat-shaped, leathery follicles that split open to reveal shiny black seeds.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal as an ornamental specimen tree in full sun, it thrives in well-drained coastal soils and provides seasonal colour. Its moderate size makes it suitable for smaller gardens or along driveways, offering visual interest without being overly dominant.
Growing notes
This tree exhibits a medium growth rate and, once established, is remarkably drought-tolerant, requiring minimal supplementary water. Provide regular watering for young plants until well-rooted, and ensure it is planted in an area with good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Sources
Drafted from: Gemini 2.5 Flash. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.