DILLENIACEAE
Tetracera boiviniana
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Tetracera boiviniana is a shrub or small tree typically growing up to 5 metres tall, though it can reach up to 7 metres. It features a gnarled stem with dark grey, rough, and vertically fissured bark that can peel longitudinally. Its elliptic to obovate leaves have sharply serrated margins, a rough, sparsely hairy upper surface with sunken veins, and a densely hairy underside with raised veins. The plant produces white or pinkish-white flowers with numerous yellow stamens, leading to distinctive red, woody, spine-tipped fruits containing black seeds with a yellowish aril.
Where it works in Kilifi
This species is well-suited for coastal woodland, thicket, and grassland restoration projects in Kilifi, thriving in well-draining soils. It can serve as an attractive specimen shrub or small tree in a garden setting, tolerating conditions from partial shade to full sun.
Growing notes
Tetracera boiviniana is an evergreen plant that, once established, is relatively drought-tolerant, adapting to conserve water. Occasional pruning can help maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Propagation is possible from seeds or cuttings.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: mozambiqueflora.com, jstor.org, africanplantdatabase.ch, picturethisai.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.