Meliaceae
Xylocarpus moluccensis
Puzzle Nut Tree
T
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This robust evergreen tree is a true mangrove, thriving in saline and brackish conditions along coastal shores. It is notable for its large, woody, spherical fruits which split into distinctive, puzzle-piece segments upon maturity, scattering seeds that resemble mahogany.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for coastal restoration projects, particularly in estuarine areas or gardens with access to brackish water. It thrives in full sun and saline or waterlogged soils, serving as an excellent specimen tree for larger coastal landscapes due to its potential size.
Growing notes
A moderately growing species, it requires little supplemental watering once established, provided it has access to its preferred saline or brackish environment. Extremely hardy in coastal conditions, it is best suited for sites mimicking its natural estuarine habitat rather than typical garden plots.
Sources
Drafted from: Gemini 2.5 Flash. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.