Kola orah
Cola acuminata
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Description
Cola acuminata, commonly known as kola nut, is a tropical evergreen tree native to the rainforests of West and Central Africa. It can grow up to 20 meters tall and plays a crucial role in agroecology and regenerative agriculture as a mid-canopy layer in food forest systems. The tree provides shade, enhances soil fertility through its rich leaf litter, and its deep root system aids in soil stabilization, making it valuable for erosion control in tropical regions. The flowers attract a variety of pollinators, supporting biodiversity. Traditionally, kola nuts have been used in African cultures for ceremonial purposes and as a social stimulant. In agroforestry systems, it can be effectively combined with nitrogen-fixing plants like pigeon pea to improve soil health. Additionally, kola trees can be part of a guild with ginger and turmeric, which thrive in the shaded understory, enhancing biodiversity and maximizing space use.
Growing Details
Kola nut trees thrive in warm, humid climates with well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter. Before planting, prepare the soil by adding compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility. Mulching around the base of the tree helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like ginger and turmeric can be grown alongside kola nut to maximize space and improve biodiversity. Avoid waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot. Harvesting typically occurs when the pods turn brown and
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Fire Wood
Building Wood
Windbreak
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Visual Appeal
Tea
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Cola acuminata</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: Native to the rainforests of West and Central
applicable geo region: Tropical Africa
language used: sr
Flowering:
beginning
of September for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of November for 60 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(4/5)
edible uses: The seeds of the kola nut are chewed for their stimulating effects due to high caffeine content. They are also used in the production of cola beverages and traditional medicine. The seeds can be dried and ground into a powder for use in teas or as a flavoring. Caution is advised due to the high caffeine content, which can cause adverse effects if consumed excessively.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Kola nut is traditionally used in African medicine to treat fatigue, depression, and as an appetite suppressant. It is also used to improve digestion and mental alertness. The seeds can be chewed raw or boiled in tea. Due to the high caffeine content, it is recommended to consume in moderation to avoid potential side effects such as insomnia or increased heart rate.
health concerns: Excessive consumption can lead to unwanted effects associated with caffeine, such as insomnia, rapid heartbeat, and anxiety. Individuals sensitive to caffeine should exercise caution.
other uses: Kola nut wood can be used for fuel and construction purposes. The tree provides shade in agroforestry systems and can serve as a windbreak.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Cola acuminata
common names: Kola orah; Bisi orah; Guru orah
family: Malvaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Cola
Growing Conditions
area needed: 10.0 m
spacing: 5.0 m
growing difficulty: High
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 18ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: High
humidity: High
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: High
hardness:
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(10/10)
first harvest: 7 years
life span: 100 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 20.0 m
max width: 10.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Kola nut trees thrive in warm, humid climates with well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter. Before planting, prepare the soil by adding compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility. Mulching around the base of the tree helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like ginger and turmeric can be grown alongside kola nut to maximize space and improve biodiversity. Avoid waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot. Harvesting typically occurs when the pods turn brown and
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include aphids and scale insects. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Neem oil can be used as an organic spray to manage scale insects. Fungal diseases can be mitigated by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Companion planting with marigold can help repel nematodes.
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