Charcoal Tree (Trema orientalis)

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

Trema orientalis, also known for various common names such as Charcoal Tree, African Elm, Tree Peach, ands Woolly Cedar, is a tropical flowering tree growing about 10 m in height and 20 cm in trunk diameter. It is commonly found in East Asia. It is very fast-growing and has an extensive root system that enables it to survive drought conditions. The leaves are heart-shaped, rough, hairy when young, and have fine teeth along the edges.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The leaves and fruit are reported to be eaten in the Democratic Republic of Congo. — The leaves and fruit are reported to be eaten in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Habitat & North American Range

Moist forests, dry scrub of open slopes at elevations of 400 - 1,900 metres in southern China. Open places on hillsides at elevations of 200 - 1,200 metres in Nepal. (Zone 10)