African Nutmeg (Pycnanthus angolensis)

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

Native to Tropical Africa, African nutmeg or Pycnanthus angolensis is a large evergreen tree growing about 35 m in height and 60 - 150 cm in bole diameter. It has a small crown, straight, cylindrical bole, and leathery leaves. The flowers are hairy and fragrant. The fruits are rounded drupe. The seeds have aromatic flavor hence used as a spice. It is also pounded and used as substitute to soap. Further, it yields oil known as ?kombo butter?

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

aromatic flavour. — The seeds are sometimes used as a spice.; An aromatic flavour.

Habitat & North American Range

Upland and wet evergreen forest and semideciduous forest, especially abundant in old fallows and secondary forest; riverine and swamp forest in the south of its range. Mostly found in small groups or solitary, at elevations up to 1,400 metres. (Zone 10)