Ambila (Pterocarpus angolensis)

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

Pterocarpus angolensis or commonly known as Ambila is a deciduous tree native to southern Africa growing about 5-20 m in height and 50-60 cm in trunk diameter. It is deciduous and has dark brown bark and wide-crowned canopy. Its leaves are dark green and arranged alternately. The flowers are orange-yellow and scented. The pods are brown and spiky containing a single seed.

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

Found in all types of woodland and wooded savannah. Typically found in so-called miombo woodland with Brachystegia and other deciduous trees, in wooded grassland and savannah, at elevations from sea-level up to 1,650 metres. (Zone 10)