Varongy (Ocotea cymosa)

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

Ocotea cymosa is an evergreen tree growing about 20 m in height and can be found in Africa. It has a straight, buttressed bole that can be branchless for up to 16 m and usually up to 80 cm in diameter. The leaves and fruits are used as condiment, and the bark is used in preparing alcoholic beverages. The plant yields high quality timber used for furniture, cabinet making, boat constructions, ship building, toys, boxes, etc.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Leaves, Bark/Inner Bark

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The leaves, bark and fruits are aromatic; the leaves and fruits are used as condiment, the bark is added to locally prepared alcoholic drinks. — The leaves, bark and fruits are aromatic; the leaves and fruits are used as condiment, the bark is added to locally prepared alcoholic drinks.

Habitat & North American Range

Forests and coastal sands at elevations up to 1,000 metres. (Zone 10)