African Coralwood (Pterocarpus soyauxii)

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

Pterocarpus soyauxii or commonly known as African Coralwood is an evergreen or deciduous species in the Fabaceae family. It is native to central and tropical west Africa and grows about 34 m in height and 1 m in trunk diameter. It has a flaky reddish-gray bark, pinnate and alternate leaves, and fruits that are round pods containing one seed each. The crown is open and dome-shaped.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Shoots

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Leaves and young shoots - cooked as a vegetable, made into soups, or used for other dishes with cassava and yam. A high ascorbic acid content, even after cooking. — Leaves and young shoots - cooked as a vegetable, made into soups, or used for other dishes with cassava and yam.; A high ascorbic acid content, even after cooking.

Habitat & North American Range

Evergreen or deciduous forests on firm-ground, rain-forest; at elevations from 50 - 500 metres. (Zone 10)