Loganiaceae
Strychnos innocua
Powder-bark monkey-orange · Mkwakwa, Mtonga
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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 small, unarmed tree typically grows 3-14 metres tall, featuring a smooth, grey to yellowish-white bark that is often powdery. Its leathery, dull blue-green leaves have conspicuous net-veining. Globose fruits, 6-10 cm in diameter, ripen from bluish-green to yellow or orange, containing edible, sweet-sour pulp around many seeds.
Where it works in Kilifi
Suitable for sunny to partially shaded positions in Kilifi gardens, this tree thrives in well-drained, sandy or loamy soils. It serves well as a specimen tree for its edible fruits and can contribute to biodiversity in a mixed planting scheme.
Growing notes
Propagation can be done from seed, though hard seed coats may hinder germination; soaking seeds in cold water can assist. Once established, it exhibits moderate drought tolerance, requiring watering about every three weeks. The seeds and bark contain toxic alkaloids, so caution is advised, especially with children and during pregnancy.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: worldagroforestry.org, nmppdb.com.ng, zambiaflora.com, mozambiqueflora.com, zimbabweflora.co.zw, echocommunity.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.