Prunus africana, known as African Cherry, is a large evergreen tree native to the montane regions of Sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar. It can reach heights of up to 30 meters and is distinguished by its dark, fissured bark and glossy, dark green leaves. In agroecology, it serves as a keystone species, supporting biodiversity by providing habitat and food for various wildlife, including birds and insects. The tree contributes to soil health through its leaf litter, which enhances soil organic matter and fertility. Prunus africana is integral to reforestation and erosion control projects due to its adaptability to diverse soil types. It is traditionally used in African medicine, particularly for its bark, which is harvested sustainably to prevent overharvesting. In a food forest, it functions as a canopy layer, offering shade and microclimate regulation for understory plants. Guild companions include nitrogen-fixing plants like Acacia species and shade-tolerant herbs such as comfrey, which can enhance soil fertility and deter pests.
Growing Details
Prunus africana thrives in well-drained loamy soils with a preference for slightly acidic to neutral pH. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. Mulching with organic materials like straw or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as comfrey can improve soil fertility and deter pests. Avoid waterlogged conditions to prevent root rot. Harvest bark sustainably by removing small sections to allow regeneration. St
Edible Parts
Fruit
Tags
Keystone Specie Carbon Farming Attracts Wildlife Fire Wood Building Wood Windbreak Erosion Preventing Visual Appeal
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Prunus africana</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: Montane regions of Sub-Saharan Africa and Mad
applicable geo region: Africa
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of September for 30 days
Harvest:
middle
of November for 60 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(1/5)
edible uses: The fruit of Prunus africana is not commonly consumed by humans but is an important food source for wildlife, including birds and small mammals.
Medicinal Rating:
(5/5)
medicinal uses: The bark of Prunus africana is extensively used in traditional and modern medicine for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and other urinary tract disorders. It contains phytosterols and other compounds with anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties. The bark is typically dried and processed into extracts or powders for medicinal use.
health concerns: Overharvesting of the bark can lead to tree death and has raised conservation concerns. Sustainable harvesting practices are crucial to prevent population decline.
other uses: The wood of Prunus africana is valued for its durability and is used in making furniture and tools. The tree is also utilized in agroforestry systems as a shade provider and windbreak.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Prunus africana
common names: African Cherry; Red Stinkwood; Ironwood
family: Rosaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Prunus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 10.0 m
spacing: 10.0 m
growing difficulty:
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 18ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: High
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: Medium
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(10/10)
first harvest: 10 years
life span: 100 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 30.0 m
max width: 20.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Prunus africana thrives in well-drained loamy soils with a preference for slightly acidic to neutral pH. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. Mulching with organic materials like straw or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as comfrey can improve soil fertility and deter pests. Avoid waterlogged conditions to prevent root rot. Harvest bark sustainably by removing small sections to allow regeneration. St
Potential Disturbances: Prunus africana can be affected by aphids and scale insects. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for scale insects. Planting garlic or marigolds nearby can help repel pests. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
Growth Timeline
Recipes Using This Plant
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