African Birch (Anogeissus leiocarpa)

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

African birch or Anogeissus leiocarpa is a small to medium-sized evergreen shrub with an open crown. It grows up to 15 m tall with a straight bole of up to 100cm in diameter. It is native to savannas of tropical Africa. Flowering occurs in the rainy season. Decoctions of the bark, leaves and roots are used in traditional medicine for its antimicrobial and anthelmintic activity. Stem and root bark extract have exhibited antifungal activity.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Leaves, Bark/Inner Bark

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

An edible gum is obtained from the bark. Fairly soluble in water, it is chewed and, in northern Niger, it is considered the best chewing gum substitute for gum arabic. It contains 22% uronic acid. — An edible gum is obtained from the bark.; Fairly soluble in water, it is chewed and, in northern Niger, it is considered the best chewing gum substitute for gum arabic.; It contains 22% uronic acid.; It is of good viscosity and is usable as a substitute for or adulterant of gum-arabic.

Habitat & North American Range

Found from the driest savannah to the wetter forest borders, in wooded grassland and bushland and on riverbanks. Often grows gregariously on fertile soil in moist situations, from sea-level up to 1,900 metres. (Zone 10)