Trees to Start from Seed in Kenya

Kenya is home to a diverse range of trees, many of which can be started from seed. These trees serve a variety of purposes, including reforestation, shade, windbreaks, and as a source of food, medicine, and timber. In this article, we will explore 12 trees that can be started from seed in Kenya and discuss their unique characteristics and uses. From the drought-tolerant Fever Tree to the fast-growing Rain Tree, each of these trees has something unique to offer and can play an important role in the environment and economy of Kenya.

1. Acacia xanthophloea (Fever Tree): This drought-tolerant tree is well-suited for dry regions in Kenya and can grow up to 40 meters tall. It is often used for reforestation and for its wood, which is termite-resistant.
2. Cassia siamea (Rain Tree): This fast-growing tree can reach up to 20 meters tall and is often used for shade and as a windbreak. Its leaves are used for animal feed and medicine.
3. Delonix regia (Flame Tree): This tree is known for its bright red and orange flowers and can grow up to 30 meters tall. It is often used as an ornamental tree and for its timber.
4. Eucalyptus saligna (Sydney Blue Gum): This tree is a popular choice for reforestation and can grow up to 50 meters tall. Its wood is used for construction, pulp, and paper production.
5. Khaya anthotheca (African Mahogany): This tree can grow up to 40 meters tall and is valued for its high-quality timber. It is also used for shade and as a windbreak.
6. Maesopsis eminii (Raffia Palm): This large palm tree can grow up to 25 meters tall and is often used for shade, as well as for its leaves, which are used to make baskets, mats, and thatch.
7. Millettia stuhlmannii (African Wattle): This fast-growing tree can reach up to 20 meters tall and is often used for reforestation, fuelwood, and for its wood, which is used for construction and furniture.
8. Parkia biglobosa (African Locust Bean Tree): This tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and is valued for its beans, which are used for food and medicine. Its leaves are also used for animal feed.
9. Pterocarpus angolensis (African Teak): This tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and is valued for its high-quality timber. It is also used for shade and as a windbreak.
10. Senna singueana (Cassia): This fast-growing tree can reach up to 20 meters tall and is often used for reforestation and as a windbreak. Its leaves are used for medicine and as a yellow dye.
11. Tamarindus indica (Tamarind): This tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and is valued for its fruit, which is used for food and medicine. Its leaves and bark are also used for medicine.
12. Vitex keniensis (Kenya Vitex): This tree can grow up to 15 meters tall and is valued for its medicinal properties. Its leaves are used for medicine and its bark is used for making rope.

References:

• “Acacia xanthophloea” (n.d.). PlantZAfrica. Retrieved from http://pza.sanbi.org/acacia-xanthophloea
• “Cassia siamea” (n.d.). PlantZAfrica. Retrieved from http://pza.sanbi.org/cassia-siamea
• “Delonix regia” (n.d.). PlantZAfrica. Retrieved from http://pza.sanbi.org/delonix-regia
• “Eucalyptus saligna” (n.d.). PlantZAfrica. Retrieved from http://pza.sanbi