Benin Ebony (Diospyros crassiflora)

Family: Ebenaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Other common names include Gabon ebony, African ebony, and West African ebony. Diospyros crassiflora or Benin ebony is endemic to western Africa. It is slow-glowing, reaching about 25m in height with a cylindrical trunk that can be 120 cm in diameter and branchless for up to 15 m. It produces very hard, very dark, and durable heartwood which is highly demanded in the export market.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

None known. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Usually found as isolated trees in lowland semi-deciduous and evergreen rain forest at elevations up to 1,000 metres, but usually avoiding the most humid forest types. (Zone 10)