Niam Tree (Lophira alata)

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

Found in Western tropical Africa, Niam Tree or Lophira alata is an extremely large tree growing usually about 40-60 m tall. It has a long, narrow crown and long, straight trunk that can be unbranched for up to 30 m and up to 180 cm in diameter. It has large buttresses at the base. It is one of the most over exploited species due to its strong, heavy, and highly durable timber. It also yields high quality edible oil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The fruits can be used to make an edible oil. — The fruits can be used to make an edible oil.

Habitat & North American Range

Evergreen moist rain-forest at elevations of 550 - 1,300 metres. Evergreen and moist deciduous forests, in freshwater swamp forests, and close to riverbanks. (Zone 10)