Arid and semi-arid areas in Kenya experience extreme weather conditions that inhibit the growth of plants. If you live in these areas, you must be curious to know if any plants can thrive under these conditions....CONTINUE READING
There are several plants that thrive in dry areas. But how much do you know about the plants that grow in dry areas in Kenya and their uses?
Plants that grow in dry areas in Kenya.
When choosing the type of plants to plant on a parcel of land, climate is the most important thing you should consider. Some plants require adequate rainfall to thrive. But drought-resistant plants can thrive in those areas that receive little rain. So which type of plant grows in dry or arid conditions?
How much do you know about the plants that grow in dry areas in Kenya and their names? There are so many plants that grow in areas that receive little rainfall. According to Safi Organics, these are some of the plants that grow in these regions.
1. Acacia tortilis (umbrella thorn)
When you search for pictures of plants that grow in dry areas, the umbrella thorn is one of the images you will see. The medium to large canopied tree is native to arid and semi-arid areas of Kenya.
It is one of the most drought-resistant plants, and its rainfall needs range between 150-900mm per annum. It has a wide range of uses, including furniture making and house construction. The tree is also a good source of firewood, charcoal, and medicine,
2. Melia volkensii (mukau)
Mukau is a valuable tree in the arid areas of Kenya. The indigenous tree species belongs to the mahogany family. This tree grows very first and matures within 10 to 15 years. It thrives well in areas with a mean annual rainfall of 300-1000 mm.
Farmers love this tree because it provides thick shade that protects other crops from the sun. The mukau tree is famed for its high-quality timber used for making different types of furniture. Besides quality timber, the tree can be used for medicinal purposes, fuel wood, and soil erosion control.
3. Moringa oleifera (moringa)
This is one of the best trees to plant in dry areas. This tree should be your go-to option if you are looking for the fastest-growing tree. The tree will be able to reach 2.5 m within three months. It can tolerate extreme temperatures as high as 118 degrees. The tree thrives in an area with an annual precipitation of 480 to 2600 mm.
This tree has an array of health benefits, including management of blood glucose levels, treatment of stomach upsets, prevention of kidney stones, treatment of asthma, treatment of mood and nervous system disorders, and wound healing.
4. Markhamia lutea (yellowwood)
This is an evergreen shrub with large, yellow flowers. The tree is drought resistant and can survive for 3-5 months without rainfall. It thrives well in an area with a mean annual rainfall of 700 – 2000 mm. Its roots, bark, and leaves are used for medicinal purposes.
They can be administered to treat toothache, stomachache, skin infections, coughs, and headaches. The wood is suitable for light construction and furniture making. It is also helpful for erosion control, shade, and shelter.
5. Azadirachta indica (neem)
This tree belongs to the mahogany family. The tree can grow in regions with an annual rainfall of 400 – 1200 mm. It is one of the most valuable medicinal plants. The large branched evergreen tree can be used to treat acne, nourish the skin, and treat fungal infections.
There are other numerous benefits of the tree, including detoxification, insect repelling, skin exfoliation, reduction of joint pain, and so much more.
6. Grevillea robusta (silk oak)
This deciduous medium-sized to large tree grows in dry areas of Kenya. The tree is fairly drought-resistant, but it needs occasional water. It thrives in an area with an annual rainfall of 600 to 2400 mm and a dry season of up to 6 months.
The tree is resistant to wood rot and is used to manufacture cabinets, furniture, guitars, and fences. It is also useful in treating chest problems, headaches, flu, and toothache.
7. Calliandra calothyrsus (calliandra)
This is a small tropical legume tree found in dry areas. It grows best with annual rainfall between 700 and 3000 mm. The tree can survive a dry season of four to seven months. It is valued for its multipurpose attributes. Its uses include soil erosion control, high-quality fodder for livestock, nitrogen fixation, charcoal making, and firewood.
8. Faidherbia albida (winter thorn)
This is one of the largest thorn trees. It can be easily distinguished from other drought-resistant plants because it has spreading branches and a rounded crown. The tree grows best in an area with a mean annual rainfall of 400 – 1,000mm.
However, it can tolerate 250 – 1,200mm. It usually sheds its leaves during the rainy season but remains evergreen during the dry season. The tree is useful for treating malaria, fever, and respiratory conditions. Other uses include soil erosion control, nitrogen fixation, firewood, and camel fodder…CONTINUE READING>>
