African mahogany tree (Spirostachys africana)

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

Spirostachys africana or African Mahogany Tree or African Sandalwood is a very slow-growing deciduous tree growing up to 20 m in height. The trunk is straight and bark is gray-black and rough. The leaves are small and narrowly oval, with rounded teeth along the edge. The flowers are dioecious, occurring in long groups. The fruits are small capsules with rounded seeds.

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

Deciduous woodland, bushland; wooded grassland; Colophospermum mopane or mixed woodlands; sometimes in thickets; locally common and usually gregarious; the largest trees occur near streams and seasonal watercourse; elevations from 30 - 1,350 metres. (Zone 10)