Vitex Keniensis – Meru Oak

Description

Vitex keniensis has a single, straight trunk that can grow up to 10 meters tall. The bark is grayish-brown and smooth. The leaves are opposite, simple, and ovate-lanceolate, measuring 5 to 10 centimeters long and 2 to 3 centimeters wide. The leaves are dark green above and paler green below. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, and are produced in terminal panicles. The fruit is a small, dry capsule that contains two seeds.

Vitex keniensis is a popular ornamental plant in Kenya and Tanzania. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, cough, and diarrhea.

Here are some other interesting facts about Vitex keniensis:

• The wood of Vitex keniensis is hard and durable, and is used to make furniture, tools, and musical instruments.
• The leaves of Vitex keniensis are used to make a tea that is said to have calming and relaxing properties.
• The flowers of Vitex keniensis are a good source of nectar for bees and butterflies.
• Vitex keniensis is a relatively fast-growing plant, and can reach maturity in about 5 years.

If you are looking for an attractive and easy-care ornamental plant for your garden, Vitex keniensis is a good choice. It is drought-tolerant and relatively pest-free, and can be grown in full sun or partial shade.