Full List of Indigenous Trees in Kenya (2025) - Native Species With Pictures & Uses
- BeyondForest
- Oct 19, 2024
- 15 min read
Updated: Nov 18
Image of a 30 Year Old Mutarakwa Tree(Juniperus Procera ) Fencing Post
Image of a juniperus procera tree at the foot of Mount Kenya
Kenya is home to a rich diversity of indigenous trees, many of which play crucial ecological, cultural, and economic roles .Kenya has seen increasing efforts to protect and reforest indigenous trees, including tree-planting initiatives by organizations, local communities, and government programs. Conservation of indigenous trees helps prevent biodiversity loss, supports traditional knowledge, and enhances climate resilience across the country.
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Indigenous trees support unique ecosystems, providing habitat, food, and shelter to native species of birds, mammals, and insects .
Image of Prunus africana leaves
Many indigenous trees help prevent soil erosion, especially in highland and arid areas prone to land degradation. Several trees hold cultural significance for different Kenyan communities, playing central roles in rituals and traditional practices
Indigenous trees are well-adapted to local climates, making them more resilient to climate change than non-native species.
FAQ about Indigenous Trees in Kenya
Yes, there is mahogany in Kenya, but it exists in different forms under various species. The two most notable types are the Khaya anthotheca (East African Mahogany) This is the true mahogany species found in Kenya, especially in wet and high-rainfall regions such as parts of the Kakamega Forest, Mount Kenya, the Aberdares, and coastal forests and Afzelia quanzensis (Pod Mahogany or Bamba Kofi)
Image of Hornbill eating Pod Mahogany Seeds a hardwood tree in Kenya Afzelia quanzensis
Afzelia quanzensis though not a “true” mahogany, it is locally known as mahogany because of its excellent timber quality. It grows widely in dry forests and savannah regions like Coastal Kenya, Eastern, and parts of Nyanza.
Kenya is home to several valuable hardwood tree species, prized for their durability, strength, and resistance to pests. These woods are commonly used in furniture, construction, carvings, and traditional medicine.
Here are some major hardwoods found in Kenya Khaya anthotheca also known as East African Mahogany ,Afzelia quanzensis also known as Pod Mahogany or the Bamba Kofi ,Milicia excelsa also known as mvule or Iroko , Terminalia brownii also known as Brachystegia (common in drylands)
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Cordia africana or the African Cordia ,Albizia gummifera a Soft hardwood used in furniture, Olea africana or the African wild olive (very dense and durable), Camphor (Ocotea usambarensis) mostly found in highlands like Mt. Kenya and Acacia species such as Acacia polyacantha which are tough and termite-resistant
No, cypress is not a true hardwood. Cypress is a softwood because it comes from a coniferous tree (cone-bearing). However, some cypress species produce dense, durable wood that behaves like hardwood, making it popular for construction, fencing, and outdoor furniture.
Kenya grows several important softwood tree species, mostly used for timber, construction, furniture, paper production, and reforestation. Unlike hardwoods, softwoods come from coniferous trees and generally grow faster, making them ideal for commercial plantations.
Exotic Softwoods In Kenya
Cupressus lusitanica
Mexican Cypress widely planted for timber, poles, and fencing. Known for its resistance to decay and insects.
Pinus patula
Patula Pine grown in highland areas like Mt. Kenya and the Mau Forest. Used in construction, furniture, and pulp.
Pinus radiata
Radiata Pine a fast growing and commonly used for timber and plywood.
Grevillea robusta
Though technically a hardwood, it is often used like a softwood in Kenya for shade, timber, and agroforestry.
Native Softwoods In Kenya
Image of Green Juniperus Procera trees on a grassy hill
Juniperus procera
African Pencil Cedar (native) Valued for durable wood and aromatic properties, though now rare due to overharvesting.
Podocarpus latifolius (Yellowwood)
Native softwood used for furniture and paneling.
Is Khaya anthotheca and pod mahogany same
No, Khaya anthotheca and Pod Mahogany (Afzelia quanzensis) are not the same tree, although both are large, valuable African hardwoods often referred to as types of "mahogany". Here's a comparison Khaya anthotheca Common names: East African Mahogany, Red Mahogany
Image of Brown Pod mahogany seed pod with red seeds
Afzelia quanzensis Common names: Pod Mahogany, Rhodesian Mahogany, Bamba Kofi Khaya anthotheca belong to the Family Meliaceae (same family as true mahogany) while Afzelia quanzensis belong to the Family Fabaceae (legume family)
What Does "Olea" Mean?
The word "Olea" is Latin for "olive," and it reflects the resemblance of certain plants in this genus to the olive tree in terms of physical characteristics, such as their leaves, fruit, or growth habits. In botanical taxonomy, the genus Olea includes not only the cultivated olive tree (Olea europaea) but also several wild species found in Africa, Asia, and other regions.
Two indigenous hardwood trees in Kenya are Melia volkensii locally known as (Mukau) which is Native to arid and semi-arid areas like Eastern Kenya.
Image of a Melia Volkensi Tree Seedling
Mukau is drought-tolerant and valued for its termite-resistant, durable hardwood used in furniture, construction, and carving. and
Image of Pod Mahogany Seeds by Learn Giryama
Afzelia quanzensis also the Pod Mahogany / Mkambakofi) found along the coastal region and parts of the inland forests, it produces high-quality, reddish-brown timber ideal for furniture, flooring, and boat building.
Scientific Name |
East African Yellowwood (Podocarpus latifolius) |
African Sandalwood (Osyris lanceolata) |
Prunus africana (African Cherry) |
Melia volkensii |
Baobab (Adansonia digitata) |
Croton megalocarpus |
Moringa (Moringa oleifera) |
African Pencil Cedar (Juniperus procera) |
Elgon Teak (Olea capensis) |
Warburgia ugandensis (Uganda Greenheart) |
Acacia (Vachellia and Senegalia species) |
Syzygium guineense (Waterberry) |
Ficus sycomorus (Sycamore Fig) |
Newtonia buchananii (Newtonia) |
Nandi Flame Tree |
Terminalia brownii (East African Almond) |
African Mahogany (Khaya anthotheca) |
Combretum molle (Velvet Bushwillow) |
Markhamia lutea (Nile Tulip) |
Hagenia abyssinica (Rosewood) |
Nuxia congesta (Brittle-wood) |
Rapanea melanophloeos |
Dombeya torrida |
Podocarpus falcatus |
Yushania alpina Bamboo |
Rauvolfia caffra |
Cordia africana |
Casaeria battiscombei |
Rothmania ulceriformis |
Cinnamomum camphora |
Milletia dura |
Kigelia Africana |
Pod Mahogany |
Vitex Keniesis (Meru Oak) |
Hagenia abyssinica is used locally in Ethiopia to treat malaria, stomach issues, and general illness.
Where To Buy Indigenous Tree
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Newton Maina | 0726647885 |
Magret | 0721742552 |
Carnations | 0719829881 |
Caren Muthoni | 0710228109 |
Meru oak
Vitex keniensis (Meru Oak) , is a popular but threatened indigenous tree species valued for it's fast growth, edible fruits, medicine & bee forage.
Image of an officer guarding a Meru Oak Tree which is endemic to Kenya.
Meru oak scientifically known as Vitex keniensis is a large, indigenous hardwood tree native to the Kenyan highlands, particularly around Mount Kenya, the Aberdares, and Mau Forest. It can grow up to 35 meters tall, with a straight trunk and spreading crown.
Despite its name, it is not a true oak, but belongs to the Lamiaceae family. Meru oak is highly valued for its strong, durable timber, used in furniture, flooring, roofing beams, and high-end joinery. Its wood is resistant to pests and decay. Due to overexploitation, it is now listed as an endangered species, with conservation and reforestation efforts underway to protect and restore natural populations.
Pod Mahogany
Image of Pod Mahogany also known as Mbambakofi
Pod Mahogany, scientifically known as Afzelia quanzensis, is a valuable hardwood tree native to Eastern and Southern Africa. It belongs to the Fabaceae family (legume family) and is sometimes referred to as Rhodesian Mahogany or African Mahogany.
Image of a Large Pod Mahogany Tree
This deciduous tree is widely recognized for its durable timber, shade canopy, and ornamental value, making it a popular choice in landscaping, reforestation, and timber industries. Mature trees typically grow between 12 to 20 meters, though they can reach up to 30 meters under ideal conditions. The crown is rounded and wide-spreading, providing excellent shade.
Image of a Wild african olive
Olea africana, also known as the African wild olive is an indigenous tree species found across Africa, including Kenya. The Olea europaea subsp africana is known for its resilience, hard wood, and medicinal properties .
Image of Mutamaiyo seeds
The wood of the Olea africana is extremely hard and dense, with a fine grain, making it suitable for high-quality woodworking. The Olea Africana produces small, dark purple or black fruits that are rich in oil, though smaller and less fleshy than those of the cultivated olive
Milletia dura
Milletia dura iis a medium to large-sized tree that belongs to the legume family (Fabaceae) and is native to various parts of East and Southern Africa, including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Ethiopia.. Compound leaves, usually with multiple leaflets arranged alternately.
Image of Milletia dura seedlings by Agatha Mwende
The leaves are green and may have a slightly glossy appearance Produces attractive, pea-like flowers that are usually purple or lilac in color. The flowers are arranged in dense clusters . The fruit is a pod, typical of legumes, that contains seeds. These pods often have a woody texture and split open when mature to release seeds
Image of Milletia dura Flowers by Agatha Mwende
East African Yellowwood (Podocarpus latifolius)
Image of an East African Yellowwood tree (Podocarpus latifolius)
The East African Yellowwood (Podocarpus latifolius) is a large evergreen tree native to Africa, found in montane forests across regions like Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
It belongs to the Podocarpaceae family and is highly valued for its ornamental, ecological, and economic contributions.Its fine-grained, yellowish wood is durable and used for furniture, construction, and carvings. It can grow up to 30-40 meters, with a straight trunk and a dense, conical crown. The tree produces fleshy, berry-like fruits that are an important food source for birds.
Cinnamomum camphora
Cinnamomum camphora, commonly known as the camphor tree or camphor laurel, is a large evergreen tree native to East Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea.
It is widely known for its aromatic properties, owing to its production of camphor oil, and is now cultivated in many parts of the world for its medicinal, ornamental, and industrial uses.
Rauvolfia caffra
Rauvolfia caffra, commonly known as the quinine tree or African devil's tree, is a medium to large evergreen tree that can grow up to 25 meters tall. is a significant tree species in tropical and subtropical Africa.
It belongs to the family Apocynaceae, which includes other well-known genera like Catharanthus (source of anti-cancer drugs) and Plumeria (frangipani). Rauvolfia caffra is valued for its medicinal properties, ecological role, and cultural significance. The tree has a straight trunk, often branching at higher levels, and a rounded crown.
Rothmania ulceriformis
Rothmannia ulceriformis is a tree species in the family Rubiaceae, a group that includes coffee plants and gardenias. is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree or shrub that typically reaches a height of 3 to 10 meters.Native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, The tree produces large, tubular, or funnel-shaped flowers, which are creamy white with purple or maroon streaks inside the petals. Rothmannia ulceriformis is notable for its ecological and ornamental value. While less widely known than other species in its genus, it shares many features characteristic of the Rothmannia genus.
African sandalwood (Osyris lanceolata), also known as East African sandalwood, is a small evergreen tree or shrub native to East and Central Africa, including Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. It thrives in dry woodlands and rocky soils.
The tree is highly valued for its fragrant heartwood, which is used in perfumery, traditional medicine, and cosmetics. Its essential oil is sought after for its rich, woody aroma. Due to overharvesting for commercial purposes, African sandalwood faces a significant decline, leading to conservation concerns.
Prunus Africana (African Cherry)
Prunus africana, commonly known as the African cherry or red stinkwood, is a large evergreen tree native to the highland forests of Africa. It grows up to 30 meters tall and has rough, dark bark with medicinal properties. The bark contains compounds used to treat prostate disorders, making it highly valuable in pharmaceutical industries.
Prunus africana also plays an essential ecological role, providing habitat and preventing soil erosion. However, excessive harvesting for its medicinal bark has led to population declines, prompting conservation efforts. Sustainable harvesting and reforestation programs are crucial to preserving this species and maintaining ecological balance.
Melia volkensii
Melia volkensii, commonly known as mukau, is a fast-growing, drought-resistant tree native to arid and semi-arid regions of East Africa, particularly Kenya, Tanzania, and Ethiopia. It belongs to the mahogany family and is valued for its high-quality hardwood, used in furniture making and construction.
The tree also provides shade, fodder for livestock, and erosion control. Its seeds contain insecticidal properties, making them useful in pest management. Due to its economic and ecological benefits, Melia volkensii is widely promoted in agroforestry programs.
Baobab (Adansonia digitata)
The baobab (Adansonia digitata) is an iconic tree native to Africa, known for its massive trunk, which can store thousands of liters of water to survive drought conditions. It thrives in savannas and semi-arid regions, reaching up to 25 meters in height and living for thousands of years.
The tree provides food, medicine, and shelter; its nutrient-rich fruit, called monkey bread, is high in vitamin C and antioxidants. The bark, leaves, and seeds have medicinal and nutritional uses. Due to deforestation and climate change, conservation efforts are vital to protect the baobab and its role in African ecosystems.
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Croton megalocarpus
Croton megalocarpus is a fast-growing, drought-resistant tree native to East Africa, commonly found in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. It can grow up to 36 meters tall and is valued for its ecological and economic benefits. The tree provides shade, controls soil erosion, and enhances soil fertility through nitrogen fixation.
Its seeds yield oil used in biodiesel production, soap making, and traditional medicine. The wood is used for construction, fuel, and furniture. Croton megalocarpus plays a crucial role in agroforestry and reforestation programs, making it a sustainable resource for rural communities while contributing to environmental conservation.
Moringa (Moringa oleifera)
The Moringa tree , commonly referred to as the miracle tree, is a plant native to parts of Africa and Asia, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions.
Moringa is scientifically known as Moringa oleifera and belongs to the Moringaceae family and has gained global recognition due to its nutritional, medicinal, and economic potential. Moringa can play a vital role in sustainable agriculture and food security, especially in developing countries
African Pencil Cedar (Juniperus procera)
Juniperus procera, commonly known as the African juniper or East African cedar, is a tall coniferous tree native to the highlands of East Africa, Common in high-altitude areas such as Mt. Kenya and the Aberdares. It thrives in altitudes between 1,500 and 3,400 meters, preferring well-drained soils.
This evergreen tree can reach up to 40 meters in height, with reddish-brown bark and needle-like leaves. Its durable, aromatic wood is highly valued for construction, furniture, and essential oils. Juniperus procera plays a crucial ecological role, providing habitat and preventing soil erosion. However, deforestation threatens its populations, necessitating conservation efforts. Its timber is highly valued for construction and furniture. The tree is also used for traditional rituals in some communities.
Elgon Teak (Olea capensis)
Elgon teak (Olea capensis) is a slow-growing hardwood tree native to East Africa, particularly around Mount Elgon in Kenya and Uganda. It thrives in montane forests and can reach heights of up to 40 meters.
The tree is highly valued for its durable, termite-resistant timber, used in furniture, flooring, and construction. It also plays an essential ecological role, providing habitat and preventing soil erosion. Elgon teak produces small, dark fruits that attract birds and wildlife.
Warburgia ugandensis (Uganda Greenheart)
Warbugia ugandensis is commonly referred to as the East African greenheart due to its distinctive greenish heartwood and its geographical distribution. The term "greenheart" is often used for certain tree species known for their dense and durable wood, which is typically resistant to decay and pests.
This quality makes the wood highly valued for construction and furniture.In addition to its physical characteristics, the name reflects the tree's ecological significance in the East African region, where it contributes to the rich biodiversity of tropical forests.
The sausage tree (Kigelia africana) is an intriguing and unique species native to the African continent, known for its striking appearance and rich cultural significance. The Kigelia Africana is a Tropical tree 60 feet tall, native to South and East Africa. The tree has a thick trunk with grey bark, and a beautifully rounded profile. It bears deep red flowers which give way to enormous, pendulous fruits attaining a length of up to 3 feet.
Image of a Kigelia Africana Tree with Fruits
Kigelia Africana tree, belongs to the Bignoniaceae family, is not only notable for its distinctive sausage-shaped fruits but also for its ecological contributions, medicinal uses, and cultural importance among various African communities.The sausage tree is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 20 meters tall.
Image of a Kigelia Africana Dried Fruit Pod with Seeds
The most distinguishing characteristic of the Kigelia Africana (sausage tree) is its fruit. The fruit resembles elongated sausages, hence the name, and can measure up to 60 centimeters in length.
Acacia (Vachellia and Senegalia species)
Habitat: Common across Kenya, especially in the savannas and drylands.
Uses: The different species of acacia are used for their gum (gum arabic), timber, and as a source of fodder for livestock. Some species have medicinal uses.
Syzygium guineense (Waterberry)
Habitat: Grows along rivers and in wetlands in central and western Kenya.
Uses: The fruit is edible, and the tree is used for medicinal purposes. It also provides wood for building and firewood.
The Sycomore fig (Ficus sycomorus) also known as mukuyu treeis a remarkable tree species belonging to the Moraceae family. Known for its unique ecological and cultural significance and occurs naturally in forests, wooded savannahs, and along rivers.The fig tree with a nice, beautiful and evergreen shade which provides a wonderful shadow as a sanctuary from the African sun.
Since these trees grow to a great age and height The roots also bring the subterranean water system closer to the surface, forming streams. It is no wonder that it was selected for such importance symbolism for the community
Newtonia buchananii (Newtonia)
Habitat: Grows in montane and riverine forests in central Kenya.
Uses: Its timber is used for making furniture and in construction.
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The Nandi Flame Tree also Known as The Flames of Thika and scientifically known as Spathodea campanulata, is a striking and significant species native to tropical Africa. The Nandi Flame is referred to as the African Tulip Tree due to its vivid and tulip-like flowers, this tree is celebrated for its ornamental value and ecological importance.
The Nandi Flame Tree belongs to the Bignoniaceae family, which includes other notable trees such as the Jacaranda and the Trumpet Creeper. Its scientific name, Spathodea campanulata, derives from Greek and Latin roots Where spathodea refers to the "spathoid" nature of the flowers (resembling spathes or large bracts), and campanulata means "bell-shaped," describing the flower’s form.
Terminalia brownii (East African Almond)
Habitat: Grows in dryland forests and woodlands in central and northern Kenya.
Uses: Its wood is used for making tools, and the leaves are used for medicinal purposes.
African Mahogany (Khaya anthotheca)
Habitat: Found in tropical forests in western Kenya and along river systems.
Uses: The wood is highly prized for its durability and aesthetic appeal, commonly used in furniture and construction.
Combretum molle (Velvet Bushwillow)
Habitat: Found in dry forests and woodlands across Kenya.
Uses: The tree is used in traditional medicine for treating ailments like stomach problems and coughs. It also produces firewood and charcoal.
Markhamia lutea, commonly known as the Siala Tree or the Nile Tulip, is a flowering plant belonging to the Bignoniaceae family.The Markhamia Lutea is native to tropical regions of Africa commonly found in countries such as Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania .
Markhamia Lutea is known for its vibrant yellow flowers and large, broad leaves. The Siala tree typically grows in savanna and woodland habitats, reaching heights of 10 to 20 meters.
Markhamia was named in the honour of Clements Markham (1830-1916) who was an English geographer, explorer and writer and worked in India. Markhamia lutea can grow between 10 to 20 meters tall. Its crown is broad and rounded, providing ample shade and habitat for various fauna.
Hagenia abyssinica (Rosewood)
Image of Hagenia Abyssinica leaves by Swines Meadow on X
Hagenia abyssinica, commonly known as African redwood, kosso, or brayera, is a species of flowering plant native to the highland regions of Africa, particularly in the Afromontane regions of Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. The tree is well-known for its medicinal properties and its cultural significance, especially in Ethiopia where it has been used for centuries to treat various ailments
Image of Gorillas rest under a Hagenia Abyssinica by Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund
Dombeya Torrida
Dombeya torrida, commonly known as East African rosewood or mbau mbichi in Kenya, is a fast-growing, deciduous tree native to Kenya’s highland forests, especially around Mount Kenya, the Aberdares, and the Rift Valley escarpments. It typically reaches heights of 10–20 meters and is known for its broad, heart-shaped leaves and clusters of white to pale pink flowers, which attract bees and other pollinators. The wood is light and soft, often used for fuelwood, poles, and tool handles.
Podocarpus falcatus
Image of Podocarpus falcatus Leaves
Podocarpus falcatus, also known as East African Yellowwood or African Fern Pine, is a large, evergreen tree native to Eastern and Southern Africa, including Kenya, where it thrives in montane and coastal forests. In Kenya, it is commonly found in Mount Kenya, the Aberdares, Kakamega Forest, and the Mau Highlands. It belongs to the Podocarpaceae family and is one of the few indigenous conifer species in Africa.
This tree can grow up to 40 meters tall, with a straight trunk and a dense, conical crown. Its leaves are narrow, leathery, and resemble those of a fern, which is why it is sometimes called African fern pine. The bark is smooth and greyish, becoming flaky with age. Podocarpus falcatus produces small, fleshy, berry-like cones that are consumed by birds and mammals, aiding seed dispersal.
The timber of Podocarpus falcatus is light yellow-brown, soft, and workable, making it highly valued for furniture, interior paneling, joinery, and carving.
It is resistant to pests and decay when properly treated, contributing to its popularity in carpentry and construction. Historically, it was widely used in traditional boat-building and house construction.
