Thika Palm Tree Price In Kenya
- BeyondForest
- Oct 18, 2024
- 8 min read
Updated: May 29
By the end of this section you will have learnt
1.)Thika Palm Tree Common Names
4.)Thika Palm Tree flowers and Fruits
5.)Where To Buy Thika Palm
6.)Distribution of Japanese Fern Tree
9.)FAQ about Thika Palm Tree
The Thika Palm Tree scientifically known as Filicium decipiens and commonly as the Japanese Fern Tree, is an evergreen tree belonging to the family Sapindaceae.
The best Fertilizer for a Thika Palm Tree is Goat Manure
Image of David Ndatha and Team planting Thika palm trees
Buy Thika Palm Seedlings From Henry KE
Although its name suggests a fern-like appearance, Filicium decipiens is not a fern but a flowering tree. It is native to parts of East Africa Highlands, Indian Ocean islands, such as Madagascar, as well as to Sri Lanka and India.
Image of a 6 feet Thika Palm Seedling by Gracy Gituku
Due to its graceful foliage, durability, and ease of maintenance, Filicium decipiens has become a popular ornamental tree in tropical and subtropical landscapes around the world, especially in urban environments.
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Image of Thika Palm Tree seedlings
Filicium decipiens is a slow-growing, medium-sized tree that typically reaches heights of 10 to 15 meters (30 to 50 feet) at maturity, although under optimal conditions, it can grow up to 20 meters (65 feet). The tree is characterized by its dense, umbrella-shaped crown, which offers extensive shade.
Image of Filicium decipiens at a park
The trunk is straight and cylindrical, covered with rough, dark-brown to grayish bark that may develop shallow fissures as the tree matures. Its wood is moderately hard, giving the tree structural stability and making it resistant to wind and storms.
Image of Uhuru Kenyatta planting Japanese fern tree
The most distinctive feature of Filicium decipiens is its fern-like, pinnately compound leaves, which give the tree its common name. Each leaf consists of numerous leaflets that are lanceolate or oblong in shape, typically ranging from 5 to 10 cm in length. The leaflets are deep green, glossy, and have entire margins (smooth edges), contributing to the plant’s attractive appearance. The leaf arrangement is alternate, and the leaves themselves are leathery and firm, adapted to withstand harsh sunlight in tropical climates.
The flowering of Filicium decipiens is relatively inconspicuous, with small, greenish-white flowers that appear in dense, axillary clusters. These flowers are not particularly showy and are primarily pollinated by insects. The tree produces fruit in the form of small, brown, globose drupes (stone fruits), about 1 to 2 cm in diameter.
Image of Thika Palm Tree Fruit Seeds Collected Along Garden Estate
The fruits typically appear after the flowering season and contain one or two seeds. While the fruits are not widely consumed by humans, they are often eaten by birds and other wildlife, making the tree ecologically significant as a food source for local fauna.
Image of a Thika Palm Seedlings costing 6ksh by Kante on Facebook
Thika Palm Tree Common Names
The Thika Palm Tree is referred to as Kamiti in Kikuyu Language
Image of Thika Palm Seeds
Image of Thika Palm Tree Seedling for Sale By Henry Ke
Thika Palm Tree 6 Feet | 750Ksh |
Thika Palm Tree 4.5 Feet | 400Ksh |
Thika Palm Tree 3 Feet | 570Ksh |
Standard Thika Palm Tree | 500Ksh |
Filicium decipiens is native to the Indian Ocean region, with populations found in countries like Sri Lanka, India, and Madagascar. It thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, where it can grow in a variety of habitats, including coastal areas, lowland rainforests, and even mountainous regions. The tree is highly adaptable to different soil types, although it prefers well-drained, loamy soils with moderate fertility. It can tolerate some degree of drought, but optimal growth occurs in regions with moderate to high rainfall.
Image of Filicium decipiens seedlings
Because of its tolerance to salt spray, Filicium decipiens is commonly planted in coastal regions. Its adaptability to urban environments, where pollution and compacted soils are common, also makes it an excellent choice for city landscapes.
In many parts of the world, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions, Filicium decipiens has been introduced as an ornamental tree in parks, gardens, and along streets, where it is valued for its aesthetic appeal and shade-providing canopy.
Where To Buy Thika Palm Tree Seedlings
Newton Maina | 0726647885 |
Henry Ke | 0727242733 |
Landscaper Maggie Maggie | 0721742552 |
Gracy Gituku | 0722994725. |
Margaret John | 0722420500 |
Ken Ken | 0719 808919 |
Uses of Thika Palm Tree
Ornamental Use
Image of Thika palm seedlings
The primary use of Filicium decipiens is as an ornamental tree in landscapes and gardens. Its fern-like foliage and dense, spreading canopy make it a favorite for providing shade in public parks, private gardens, and along roadsides. The tree’s graceful appearance and manageable size make it suitable for both large and small spaces. In urban environments, Filicium decipiens is often planted as a street tree because it does not have an overly invasive root system, which makes it less likely to damage sidewalks and infrastructure.
Image of Thika palm seedling at a park
In addition to its practical use for shade, the tree’s foliage remains green throughout the year, adding to its aesthetic value. It is often pruned and shaped to create a more formal appearance in landscape designs, making it popular in commercial and residential properties alike. In tropical resorts, the tree is commonly used to create a lush, green environment, enhancing the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Image of Thika Palm by Vincent Oyuke
Thika Palm tree is highly efficient at absorbing carbon dioxide, which makes it a valuable addition to urban forestry projects aimed at combating climate change. Its dense foliage also acts as a natural air filter, trapping dust and particulate matter, which contributes to cleaner air in cities. Moreover, the shade provided by Filicium decipiens helps cool the surrounding area, reducing the heat island effect commonly found in urban centers.
The tree's adaptability to various soil conditions and its resistance to pests and diseases makes it a low-maintenance option for reforestation and afforestation projects. Its ability to grow in poor soil and tolerate drought conditions makes it particularly valuable in areas that are prone to desertification or have degraded soils.
The bark of the Japanese Fern Tree is sometimes used in poultices to treat wounds and skin conditions, while decoctions made from the leaves are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
It should be noted, however, that the medicinal uses of Filicium decipiens have not been extensively studied in modern scientific research, and its pharmacological potential remains largely unexplored. The limited use of the tree in traditional medicine suggests that more research could be done to investigate its potential as a source of natural compounds with medicinal value.
Timber and Wood Products
Image of a japanese fern tree by Widson Ambiasi
Although Filicium decipiens is not primarily grown for timber, its wood is moderately hard and durable, making it suitable for use in small-scale woodworking and construction. In some regions, the wood is used to make furniture, tool handles, and other small wooden objects. However, due to the tree’s slow growth rate and its primary value as an ornamental plant, it is not commonly harvested for timber on a large scale.
How To Grow a Thika Palm Tree
Image of japanese fern tree seedling
Filicium decipiens is relatively easy to grow and care for, making it a popular choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. The tree is best grown in full sun to partial shade and thrives in well-drained, loamy soils. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels, although it prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils.
Image of residents planting Thika palm tree along Southern Bypass
Once established, the tree is relatively drought-tolerant, although regular watering is recommended during the first few years of growth to help the tree establish a strong root system.
The Thika Palm Tree also the Japanese Fern Tree (Filicium decipiens) offers several benefits, making it a popular choice in landscaping and urban greening:
Ornamental Value
Its lush, fern-like leaves and symmetrical, rounded canopy provide a tropical, elegant look ideal for gardens, parks, and roadside planting.
Shade Provider
The dense foliage offers excellent shade, making it useful for cooling outdoor spaces and walkways.
Low Maintenance
Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant and requires minimal care.
Air Purification
Like most trees, it helps improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.
Urban-Friendly
Its non-invasive roots and compact size make it suitable for planting near buildings, sidewalks, and driveways.
Soil Erosion Control
Its root system helps stabilize soil, making it useful in landscaping on slopes or erosion-prone areas.
Wildlife Habitat
Provides shelter and occasional food for small birds and insects.
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Pruning is not strictly necessary for Filicium decipiens, but it can be pruned to maintain a desired shape or size, especially in formal gardens or urban settings. The tree responds well to light pruning, and its slow growth rate means that it does not require frequent maintenance. Fertilization can help promote healthy growth, particularly in nutrient-poor soils, though Filicium decipiens is generally not a heavy feeder and can thrive with minimal inputs.
Pest and disease problems are rare with Filicium decipiens, making it a low-maintenance option for landscapes. However, in some areas, the tree may be susceptible to scale insects or fungal diseases, particularly in overly humid environments or where air circulation is poor. Regular monitoring and appropriate cultural practices, such as proper spacing and pruning, can help prevent these issues.
How long does a thika palm tree take to grow?
The Japanese Fern Tree (Filicium decipiens) takes approximately 10 to 15 years to reach its mature height of 20 to 25 feet (6 to 7.5 meters) under ideal growing conditions. It grows at a moderate rate, typically adding 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) per year. Growth speed depends on factors such as climate, soil fertility, sunlight exposure, and water availability.
Image of a Thika Palm Seedling by Irene Kariuki Kariuki
The Japanese Fern Tree (Filicium decipiens) is primarily used as an ornamental landscaping tree thanks to its attractive, fern-like foliage and dense, rounded canopy. It is commonly planted in urban gardens, roadsides, parks, and commercial landscapes for shade, visual appeal, and structure.
The Japanese Fern Tree (Filicium decipiens) is a moderate to fast grower, typically adding 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) per year under ideal conditions. In warm, tropical or subtropical climates with well-drained soil, regular watering, and partial to full sun, it can reach its mature height of 20 to 25 feet (6 to 7.5 meters) in about 10 to 15 years.
Image of a 12 month Old Thika Palm Tree by Landscapper Maggie
The Japanese Fern Tree (Filicium decipiens) has a moderate growth rate, typically growing 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) per year under ideal conditions. In warm, tropical to subtropical climates with well-drained soil, consistent watering, and partial to full sun, it can reach its mature height of 20 to 25 feet (6 to 7.5 meters) in 10 to 15 years.
The Japanese Fern Tree (Filicium decipiens) should be watered regularly during its first 1–2 years to help establish a strong root system—typically 2 to 3 times per week, depending on weather and soil drainage. Once established, it becomes more drought-tolerant and can be watered once a week during dry periods.
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