Loganiaceae
Strychnos usambarensis
Blue bitter-berry
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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 adaptable species grows as a shrub, a small tree up to 15 metres tall, or a climbing liana reaching 70 metres. It features glossy dark green leaves with a distinct drip-tip, and small, sweetly scented whitish to yellowish-green flowers. The fruits are soft-shelled, globose yellow berries, 1-1.5 cm in diameter. The plant's wood is used for construction in some regions, and its root bark and leaves are historically used for arrow poison and as a source of alkaloids for medicine.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for Kilifi-coast gardens, this species thrives in coastal evergreen bushland. It can be cultivated as a small tree for dappled shade or as a screening shrub in mixed plantings, tolerating conditions from partial shade to full sun.
Growing notes
Adapted to rainforests and coastal bushland, this plant prefers consistent moisture but is likely tolerant of dry periods once established. Caution is advised as various parts, especially the bark and seeds, contain toxic alkaloids, although the fleshy pulp of ripe fruits is often edible.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: zimbabweflora.co.zw, theferns.info, plantnet.org, mozambiqueflora.com, prota4u.org, wikipedia.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.