Mbola (Parinari curatellifolia)

Family: Chrysobalanaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Commonly found in tropical Africa, Parinari curatellifolia or commonly known as Mbola or Mobola Plum is an evergreen tree growing about 22m high and 20m across characterized by its mushroom-shaped crown. The branches are heavy and may droop or grow erect. The bole is twisted and can be up to 40cm in diameter. Mbola is used medicinally for toothaches, pneumonia, fever, fractures, wounds, sores, and cuts.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries, Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

delicious flesh. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; It has a dry but delicious flesh.; A strawberry-like flavour.; Somewhat astringent, it is one of the best wild fruits of the area.

Habitat & North American Range

Characteristic of wooded grassland with a high water-table and poor drainage. Deciduous woodland; scattered in upland grassland, often persisting in secondary bushland and cultivated land, sea level to 2,100 metres. (Zone 10)