Apocynaceae
Tabernaemontana elegans
Toad Tree · Mkuti, Mbombo
T
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This small to medium-sized tree, typically 1.5 to 5 metres tall but reaching up to 15 metres, is identifiable by its dark glossy green, leathery leaves and corky, pale brown bark. It produces fragrant white to pale yellow star-shaped flowers and distinctive paired, warty green fruit, which resemble a toad's skin and split open to reveal edible yellowish pulp and dark brown seeds. All parts of the plant contain a milky sap and it is indigenous to East African coastal forests and woodlands.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for a Kilifi-coast garden, this tree thrives in full sun to partial shade and is tolerant of various well-draining soils, including sandy types. It serves well as an ornamental specimen, for shade, or in hedges and screening, fitting into coastal forest restoration efforts.
Growing notes
Growing at a medium rate, it requires moderate to high water, preferring consistently moist conditions but not standing water, especially in hot or dry periods. Young plants benefit from protection, although mature trees are somewhat frost-resistant. Note that all parts of the plant contain a milky sap and are considered toxic if ingested.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: sanbi.org, blogspot.com, wikipedia.org, cjmgrowers.co.za, mozambiqueflora.com, prota4u.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.