Lamiaceae
Vitex payos
Chocolate berry · Mfufu
T
Available in our catalogue
We propagate this species and you can order it from our catalogue.
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This small deciduous tree typically reaches 4-10m in height, featuring a rounded crown and distinctive grey-brown, deeply fissured bark. Its leaves are digitately compound with usually five leaflets, and it produces fragrant white, blue, or mauve flowers. The fleshy, shiny black fruits are ovoid to sub-globose, about 2-2.5 cm long, cupped in a persistent calyx, and are known for their sweet, chocolate-like taste despite a pungent smell.
Where it works in Kilifi
Vitex payos thrives in full sun and is well-suited for hot, semi-arid coastal areas like Kilifi, particularly in sandy soils, though it can tolerate other soil types. It is an excellent choice as a specimen tree or for providing shade in a garden or landscape, and it also contributes to soil improvement through leaf litter. Ensure ample space as it can reach up to 10m tall and clear surrounding vegetation during planting to reduce competition.
Growing notes
Growth is slow during the first three years after planting, accelerating thereafter. Once established, it is a low-water tree capable of tolerating dry periods, preferring areas with 650-850mm annual rainfall. It coppices well and can be pruned to manage its size or reduce shade on other plants, but monitor for powdery mildew in overly wet conditions or thrips.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: farmerstrend.co.ke, worldagroforestry.org, cabidigitallibrary.org, capriviflora.com, malawiflora.com, academicjournals.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.