Annonaceae
Uvaria kirkii
Large-flowered clusterpear · Mcho, Mchofu, Msofu
T, L
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Uvaria kirkii is typically a shrub growing 1 to 2 metres tall, but can sometimes scramble or climb to 8 metres. Its leaves are elliptic to oblong, up to 12 cm long, and may be sparsely hairy on the underside, with a bluish or greyish-green upper surface. The plant produces relatively large cream to pale green flowers, with petals reaching up to 4.5 cm, which are among the largest for Uvaria species in Kenya. Edible fruits develop as oblong monocarps, up to 2.5 cm long, with a rough, warty surface and containing several seeds.
Where it works in Kilifi
This coastal species thrives in Kilifi's bushland, scrub thickets, grasslands, and riverine habitats, tolerating elevations from sea level to 400 metres. It is suitable for open ground in a garden or landscape, and has potential as an ornamental plant or for hedges.
Growing notes
Uvaria kirkii is known to grow slower than many other shrubby plants and takes a while to establish. Propagation can be achieved through seedlings, cuttings, or wildings. No specific hazards are currently known for this species.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: theferns.info, worldagroforestry.org, jstor.org, sanbi.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.