Moraceae
Treculia africana
African Breadfruit · mwaya
T
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This large, evergreen tree typically grows 10-30 metres tall, featuring a dense, spreading crown and a fluted trunk with smooth, grey bark that exudes a white latex when cut. It produces massive, round, greenish-yellow fruits, up to 45 cm in diameter and weighing up to 14 kg, which contain numerous edible orange seeds embedded in a spongy pulp. The large, dark green leaves are prominent, with male and female flowers often borne separately on the same tree, sometimes on older wood.
Where it works in Kilifi
Suitable for a Kilifi-coast garden or landscape, this tree thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, tolerating a wide range of soils from loamy to heavy clay. It can be planted in full sun or partial shade, serving as an excellent shade tree, a specimen plant, or for restoration projects, particularly near water features or in moist areas.
Growing notes
African Breadfruit is a fairly fast-growing tree, requiring full shade and frequent watering as a seedling, becoming ready for planting out in about 8 weeks. Once established, it prefers moist soil but is drought-tolerant; however, it is frost-tender and cannot endure cold winters. Trees typically begin to fruit after 3-4 years, but note that the sap of the male tree is considered caustic and toxic.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: wikipedia.org, theferns.info, sanbi.org, pfaf.org, waivio.com, nparks.gov.sg. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.