Christmas Bush (Alchornea cordifolia)

Family: Euphorbiaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Christmas Bush. Alchornea cordifolia. Christmas Bush (Alchornea cordifolia) is an evergreen, dioecious shrub or a small tree that grows up to 8 meters in height. It is well adapted to acid soils, responds well to coppicing, and reported to improve soil fertility. The leaves, when dried, can be used as a tea substitute and the acidulous fruits are considered edible in some parts of Africa.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Dried leaves are a tea substitute. The acidulous fruits are considered edible in some parts of Africa. — Dried leaves are a tea substitute.; The acidulous fruits are considered edible in some parts of Africa.

Habitat & North American Range

Widespread in secondary forest and riverine forest, especially in marshy areas but sometimes in drier sites, from sea-level up to 1,500 metres altitude. It often forms thickets in disturbed, unburned localities. (Zone 10)