Monkey Orange
Strychnos spinosa
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Description
Strychnos spinosa, known as Monkey Orange, is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree native to the savannas and woodlands of sub-Saharan Africa. It plays a significant role in agroecology and regenerative agriculture systems due to its adaptability to poor soils and drought resilience. In a food forest, it serves as a mid-canopy layer, providing shade and habitat for various species. Its fruits are a crucial food source for both humans and wildlife, enhancing biodiversity. The tree's deep root system aids in soil stabilization and erosion prevention, making it ideal for land restoration projects. Historically, it has been used by indigenous communities for its edible fruits and medicinal properties. Guild companions include nitrogen-fixing plants like Acacia species and herbs like lemongrass, which can deter pests and enhance soil health.
Growing Details
Strychnos spinosa thrives in well-drained sandy or loamy soils with full sun exposure. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost to improve fertility. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like marigolds can help deter pests. Avoid overwatering, as the tree is drought-tolerant once established. Harvest fruits when they turn yellow and emit a sweet fragrance. Store harvested fruits in a cool, dry place to extend shelf life.
Tags
Hedge
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Fire Wood
Windbreak
Erosion Preventing
Visual Appeal
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Strychnos spinosa</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Sub-Saharan Africa
applicable geo region: Africa
language used: en
Flowering:
middle
of October for 30 days
Harvest:
middle
of January for 90 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of November
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(4/5)
edible uses: The sweet pulp of the fruit is consumed raw or processed into juices and jams. It is a vital nutritional resource in rural areas, rich in vitamins and minerals. The fruit is typically harvested when fully ripe, indicated by a yellowish color and a sweet aroma.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, the bark and roots are used in African medicine to treat dysentery, snake bites, and skin infections. The fruit pulp is sometimes used as a topical treatment for skin ailments. Caution is advised due to the presence of toxic compounds in the seeds.
health concerns: The seeds contain strychnine, a potent toxin, and should not be ingested.
other uses: The hard shells of the fruit are utilized as natural containers or crafted into decorative items. The wood, though not commonly used for construction, can serve as firewood.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Strychnos spinosa
common names: Monkey Orange; Spiny Monkey Orange; Natal Ora
family: Loganiaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Strychnos
Growing Conditions
area needed: 10.0 m
spacing: 5.0 m
growing difficulty: Medium
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Low
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: Medium
hardness:
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(10/10)
first harvest: 5 years
life span: 50 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Slow
max height: 9.0 m
max width: 6.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Strychnos spinosa thrives in well-drained sandy or loamy soils with full sun exposure. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost to improve fertility. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like marigolds can help deter pests. Avoid overwatering, as the tree is drought-tolerant once established. Harvest fruits when they turn yellow and emit a sweet fragrance. Store harvested fruits in a cool, dry place to extend shelf life.
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include scale insects and caterpillars. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to manage these pests naturally. Planting garlic or chives nearby can repel some insect pests. Neem oil can be used as an organic spray for severe infestations.
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