African medlar

Vangueria infausta

Physical Characteristics

Vangueria infausta is a deciduous Shrub growing to 5 m (16ft) 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 Bees, Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

Tropical Africa - Cameroon to Kenya, south to Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and northern S.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw[46 , 301 , 418 ]. A soft, fleshy pulp[418 ]. An acid, somewhat sweetish-sour flavour[301 ]. The brown pulp round the seeds tastes somewhat like stewed dried, apple-rings[466 ]. The pulp is sometimes soaked in water and then dried for later use[418 ]. The green fruit usually ripens to a dull orange-brown or purplish colour. It is 15 - 47mm in diameter[308 ]. Seeds - raw[301 ]. They can also be made into a relish[301 ].

Medicinal Uses

Anthelmintic Antidote Antiinflammatory Antitussive Malaria Odontalgic Purgative The root is anthelmintic, antidote and purgative[418 ]. A popular snake-bite remedy, it is also used to treat a variety of complaints such as malaria, pneumonia, coughs and other chest troubles[418 ]. A warm decoction of the roots is considered to be an effective remedy for heart ailments in Namibia[775 ]. The leaves are applied externally as a treatment for swellings on the legs; inflammation of the navel in children; abdominal pain; and for the relief of dental pain[418 ].

Known Hazards

None known