African Fan Palm

Borassus akeassii

Physical Characteristics

Borassus akeassii is an evergreen Tree growing to 10 m (32ft) by 5 m (16ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The flowers are pollinated by Insects. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very acid and very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

Semi-arid and sub-humid zones of Africa from Senegal to Sudan.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Sap Shoots Edible Uses: Drink The apical bud is hollowed out and the resulting sap is collected and fermented. The wine is made for sale enhancing local earnings), to drink at traditional ceremonies, as well as forming a part of the balanced diet in many rural areas, and used for aphrodisiac preparations[ 325 ]. Excessive tapping of the sap kills the plant[ 325 ]. Fruit - fresh or dried[ 335 ]. Eaten as a food supplement[ 325 ]. The fruit is 15cm in diameter and is produced in large clusters[ 335 ]. The endosperm of immature seeds - raw[ 335 ]. Young seedlings - eaten as a vegetable like asparagus[ 317 ]. The terminal bud of the palm is used as palm cabbage[ 317 ]. Eating this bud leads to the eventual death of the plant since it is unable to produce side shoots[ K ].

Medicinal Uses

Anthelmintic Antiasthmatic Aphrodisiac Mouthwash The roots serve for the treatment of stomach parasites, sore throats and asthma, as well as being used for a mouthwash[ 325 ]

Known Hazards

None known