Indigenous Trees for Urban Gardens in Kenya

Kenya is home to a diverse range of tree species, many of which are well-suited to urban gardening. In this article, we will explore 10 indigenous tree options that can be successfully grown in an urban garden in Kenya.

1. Acacia xanthophloea (Fever Tree): This tree is known for its striking yellow bark and can grow up to 30 meters tall. It is drought-tolerant and can thrive in a wide range of soil types.
2. Croton megalocarpus (Nyagrodha): This tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and is known for its large, leathery leaves. It is drought-tolerant and can thrive in a wide range of soil types.
3. Ficus thonningii (Red-leaved Fig): This tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and is known for its striking red leaves. It is drought-tolerant and can thrive in a wide range of soil types.
4. Grewia similis (Crossberry): This tree can grow up to 15 meters tall and is known for its small, white flowers. It is drought-tolerant and can thrive in a wide range of soil types.
5. Markhamia lutea (Yellow Bells): This tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and is known for its striking yellow flowers. It is drought-tolerant and can thrive in a wide range of soil types.
6. Millettia stuhlmannii (Panga Panga): This tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and is known for its striking dark wood. It is drought-tolerant and can thrive in a wide range of soil types.
7. Pterocarpus angolensis (Mukau): This tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and is known for its striking red wood. It is drought-tolerant and can thrive in a wide range of soil types.
8. Sclerocarya birrea (Marula): This tree can grow up to 15 meters tall and is known for its small, white flowers. It is drought-tolerant and can thrive in a wide range of soil types.
9. Tamarindus indica (Tamarind): This tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and is known for its edible fruit. It is drought-tolerant and can thrive in a wide range of soil types.
10. Vitex keniensis (Kenya Vitex): This tree can grow up to 15 meters tall and is known for its small, purple flowers. It is drought-tolerant and can thrive in a wide range of soil types.

References:

1. “Trees of Kenya” by D.M. Johnson
2. “Indigenous Trees of East Africa” by J.R.B. Kirkia
3. “Kenya Trees, Shrubs and Lianas” by N.R. Crouch
4. “A Guide to Trees of the Nairobi Area” by B.W. van Ee
5. “Trees and Shrubs of Kenya” by P.B.H. Buss