Rutaceae
Zanthoxylum holtzianum
Coral knobwood · Mjafari
T
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Zanthoxylum holtzianum is a spiny shrub or small tree, typically growing 2–15 metres tall, with a trunk that develops distinctive corky bosses and branches armed with straight or slightly recurved prickles. Its leaves are compound, featuring 7–9 oblong-elliptic to ovate leaflets with translucent gland-dots. The small, white, unisexual flowers mature into globose, gland-dotted fruits that turn from greenish to reddish-brown or orange-red, splitting to release shiny black seeds.
Where it works in Kilifi
This drought-tolerant species thrives in full sun, making it suitable for coastal Kilifi gardens and landscapes. It naturally occurs in coastal forests, woodlands, and thickets on coral rock at low altitudes, serving well as a thorny specimen, for restoration, or in hedgerows.
Growing notes
Growth can be slower under arid conditions; however, it is notably drought-tolerant once established. Propagation is possible from seeds, stem, or root cuttings, with seed germination improved by scarification, such as soaking in soapy water for two hours. Always handle with caution and protective gear due to its prickles.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: grokipedia.com, nri.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.