Fulu
Vitex keniensisfam. Lamiaceae
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Pl. 183C — Vitex keniensis
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IOverview
Overview
Fulu, scientifically known as Vitex keniensis and belonging to the Lamiaceae family, is a tree native to Kenya, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zaïre. This plant thrives in full sun and moist, light (sandy) to medium soil, withstanding hardiness zones 10-12. Fulu is both edible and medicinal; its fruit can be consumed, while the plant has documented uses in traditional medicine. One distinctive feature of this tree is its ability to grow up to 25 meters tall, making it a notable presence in its native habitats.
Quick answers
What is Fulu?
Fulu, scientifically known as Vitex keniensis and belonging to the Lamiaceae family, is a tree native to Kenya, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zaïre. This plant thrives in full sun and moist, light (sandy) to medium soil, withstanding hardiness zones 10-12.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Fulu support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Fulu thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that is light (sandy) to medium in texture. It can grow up to 25 meters tall and is hardy in zones 10-12. To propagate Fulu, use seeds or cuttings. The fruit is edible and used for growing this plant in its native range of Kenya, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zaïre.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
25.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Fulu for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple Fulu plant and focus on basic care for the first year.
- 1
What you'll need
A Fulu seedling or young plant, well-draining soil, and a container if planting in a pot.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Fulu during spring when temperatures are mild and there's no risk of frost.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use light, sandy or medium soil with good drainage. Ensure containers have adequate holes for water to escape.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant a young Fulu plant into your garden or pot, ensuring the root ball is intact.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly but avoid overwatering. Keep the soil moist and provide partial shade if necessary.
- 6
Ongoing care
Fertilize with a balanced plant food every few months, especially during active growth periods. Prune lightly to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Fulu in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and remove any dead branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight, neglecting pruning, and using too much fertilizer.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Fulu (Vitex keniensis) is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. It is often consumed fresh but may also be dried for later use.
Other uses:Fire starterLumberMulchWind breaker
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 5 native
Africa4 regions
native (4)KenyaMozambiqueTanzaniaUganda
Broader regions
native:Zaïre
XSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Lamiaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Lamiaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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