Plants visited by bees,
and other useful plants of
Umalila, Southern
Highlands, Tanzania
Harvesting honey
at Yalenga
Paul Latham
Title : Plants visited by bees and other useful plants of Umalila, Southern Tanzania.
Author : Paul Latham
Fourth edition : 2008
I SBN 978-0-9554208-3-2
Address for correspondence : - Croft Cottage, Forneth, Blairgowrie, Perthshire, PH10 6SW,
U.K.
E mail : - paul@latham9.fsnet.co.uk
This publication is an output from a project part funded by the United Kingdom Department for
I nternational Development for the benefit of developing countries. The views expressed are not
necessarily those of DFI D. [ Advisory and Support Services Contract, project code ZX0077]
Note: The manual is being produced to encourage the conservation and planting of useful plants in the
Southern Highlands of Tanzania. Many of the plants mentioned are however present in the upland areas
of Central and Eastern Africa so that it is hoped the manual will be of interest to schools, development
workers and beekeepers throughout this region.
Warning : A number of the plants listed in this publication are known to be poisonous. The author does
not accept responsibility for any harm resulting from their use.
1
“O Lord, w hat a variety you have made ! And in w isdom
you have made them all ! The earth is full of your riches”.
Psalm 104:24 The Living Bible
2
Contents
Map of the Southern Highlands
4
I ntroduction and acknowledgements
5
Beekeeping in Umalila
8
The plants
13
Bee forage chart
236
Glossary
240
References
243
I ndex of general and beekeeping photos
250
I ndex of common names
251
I ndex of Malila names
253
I ndex of Swahili names
255
I ndex of scientific names
256
Unless stated otherwise common names of the plants are given in Kimalila
3
Map of the central area of the Southern Highlands : Cribb & Leedal (1982) The Mountain Flowers of
Southern Tanzania.
Finger millet growing near I lembo in April
4
I ntroduction and acknow ledgements
My first visit to Umalila, Mbeya region, took place in the early 1980’s, after having been asked by the
Salvation Army to assist the I tundu secondary school agricultural programme. A return visit was made
in the 1990’s to set up a project to help school leavers find self employment. As a result I became
interested in the potential for beekeeping and particularly in the bee flora of the area. On retirement I
was able to continue my visits to Umalila to collect information on plant use and to take photos of the
various indigenous and introduced plants. During the period from 1997 to 2006 a total of six visits were
made to Umalila where I was based at the villages of I lembo, Shilanga, Sasyaka, Maendeleo and
I zumbwe, approximately 60 – 70 km south of Mbeya town.
On my return to Britain, I contacted Dr. P.J. Cribb who, together with Rev G.P. Leedal, had studied the
flora of the Southern Highlands of Tanzania some years previously. I am grateful for permission to use
the map from their book: The Mountain Flowers of Southern Tanzania (See previous page). Dr. Cribb,
and subsequently Dr. Kaj Vollesen, very kindly identified most of the plant specimens and photographs I
collected on my early visits. Subsequently Frank Mbago, Dr. Roy Gereau and the staff of the Botany
Dept. at the University of Dar es Salaam identified the plants for which I am also very grateful. I am
also grateful to Dr. Henk Bentje for his helpful comments on some of the photos I took in 2006.
I wish to thank the following people, mostly officers of the Salvation Army, for their very kind hospitality
during my visits:- Mr. and Mrs. Mlaga, Major and Mrs. Pepete, Captain and Mrs. Siani, Colonels David
and Jean Burrows, Majors Benjamin and Grace Mnyampi, David and Maiching Palmer, Lloyd and Yvonne
Cooper, Major and Mrs. Kusilimka, Major and Mrs. Muzumbe, Envoy and Mrs. Ndere, Envoy and Mrs.
Akim, Captain and Mrs. Sanawa, Captain and Mrs. Marwa and Majors David and Chris Watson. My
special thanks also to Seth and Pam LeLeu who introduced me to Umalila during the setting up of the
agricultural training and loan scheme to assist school leavers in the area and for their help and
hospitality during my travels.
I also wish to thank a number of people who have very kindly allowed me to use their photos in the
book. The credits for these appear below each photo. The I nternational Bee Research Association has
also kindly provided reference material from their library.
As with previous books I wish to thank my wife, Ena, for her help and encouragement in the
preparation of this manual.
5
Eliya Mwampamba with a traditional
beehive. The hive has holes bored in the
base to allow rain water to drain out. Note
the V shaped entrances cut at either end
of the upper section.
A Tanzanian Top Bar hive hung on wires between two poles to prevent ants and honey
badgers from getting at the hive.
6
Umalila is intensively farmed, normally without fertilizers, and much of the designated forest land is now
in cultivation. However villagers do maintain woodlands, these being planted with eucalyptus, pine and
cypress.
Beehives, sited in this patch of
indigenous forest, provide a good
reason for preserving it.
7
Beekeeping in Umalila
Beekeeping is an important secondary industry in Umalila. Many of the beekeepers are however elderly,
and beekeeping does not appear to be attractive to most young people. I n addition much of the original
forest is in a degraded state and is being gradually lost to logging and cultivation. As the forest has
traditionally produced the bulk of the honey the future for beekeeping is uncertain. This is unfortunate
for three reasons: - 1. Beekeeping could provide a useful income particularly to young people, many of
whom do not have access to land unless they hire it. 2. I t is important for the adequate pollination of
crops such as sunflower, passion fruit, peaches, pumpkins and pole beans. Bees are known to be the
most important group of pollinators of all insects for these crops. 3. I t is traditional to site hives in areas
of forest thus affording some protection to the remaining patches of indigenous forest. One tree in
particular, I mpembati ( Polyscias fulva), is frequently used, and even planted, because of its branching
habit and thus its suitability for placing hives.
Polyscias fulva used as a hive support
Beehives were traditionally constructed from this tree, I liogoti ( Hagenia abyssinica) and I langali
( Euphorbia nyikae). Now they are usually made from Euphorbia nyikae and Cupressus lusitanica. The
hives are made approximately 1 m long and divided into two halves. These are bound together with a
cord made from I sintu ( I pomoea involucrata), or other creepers. Hives are always placed in trees,
mainly to keep flying bees above people living nearby or cultivating surrounding crops, to catch the
warmth of the early sun, particularly during the dry season, when it can be cold at an altitude of over
2,000 m, and to provide some protection from pests. A serious pest known as Homba in Malila, probably
the large spotted genet, is able to climb trees and can get into a hive to take the honey unless it is very
well secured. I t often gets into hives where the wood is rotten. New hives appear to be less at risk.
8
A hive sited approximately 4
m above the beekeeper's
home compound. A bamboo
sheath covers the hive. This
gives additional protection
from rain.
A bamboo ‘ladder’, fastened
to the tree, assists the
beekeeper to reach his hive.
9
The two halves of the hive are hauled up and assembled high in the tree and then covered over with
bamboo sheaths, supported and held down with sticks. The hive is baited with beeswax which is
normally effective in attracting a colony to enter. Occasionally, I was informed, two colonies will take up
residence at either end of a hive. They may amalgamate or remain separate.
When harvesting honey the beekeeper uses lighted pieces of bamboo or I pekeso stalks ( Conyza
bonariensis) surrounded with leaves from I gawo, the false banana,( Ensete ventricosum ), to produce
smoke but he can nevertheless get badly stung. Sometimes he will lower the hive to the ground where
two forked sticks are used to support the hive. Harvesting can then be carried out more easily as most
of the flying bees will return to the original hive site in the tree. Not all combs are taken during harvest.
Some of the honey is left, together with brood combs. There is normally a small harvest at the end of
June (up to 10 litres being taken) but the main harvest takes place in November and December when
between 18 and 25 litres can be taken. Honey has a ready local market being mainly eaten in the comb.
Wax is sold separate from the honey and is used by local carpenters and for shoe repairs.
A smoker made up from bamboo stems
surrounded with banana leaves. This has a
sling, which enables it to be hauled up the
tree and secured to a branch during harvest
or inspection. The lighted end is held
downwards and smoke is blown or allowed to
drift into the hive from the top.
Left : A bee suit enables the beekeeper to work with
bees calmly and safely. A piece of plastic mosquito
netting is sewn into the head section. A pair of
trousers can be used as an alternative to the bottom
half of the suit.
Design by Ntangu Targou
10
The I mportance of Beekeeping
The value of bees is not so much for the honey and wax they produce as for their work in pollinating
farm crops, fruit and vegetables. Without bees the production of many of these would be greatly
reduced. Bees, more than any other insect, tend to work methodically and thoroughly, concentrating on
one species of plant at a time. I t is therefore important that beekeeping is encouraged. I t is natural
today that young people are less interested than their fathers in the traditional methods of beekeeping,
especially if it involves getting badly stung ! I t is for this reason that the Top Bar hive is currently
recommended. I t is comparatively safe and easy to operate, cheap and easy to construct and usually
yields more honey than the traditional hive.
The Tanzanian Top Bar Hive or Transitional Hive
By using a Tanzanian Top Bar hive and making sure one is protected with suitable clothing, beekeeping
can be a safe and worthwhile occupation, yielding a useful profit in most years. I n the Bas-Congo
Province of the Congo, where the author is also involved in a beekeeping programme, there is no
tradition of beekeeping, yet groups of women, as well as men, have recently taken up this activity with
great enthusiasm. For them honey has provided a very useful source of income.
Top Bar hives differ from traditional hives in having moveable combs. The combs can be taken out,
inspected and put back again so that the beekeeper can see when honey is ready, which combs have
brood, whether bees are healthy and whether the queen is laying properly. Essentially the hive is an
open box 1 m long, 50 cm wide and 30 cm deep. The top of the box is made up of bars 48 cm long and
3.2 cm wide. The width of the top bar is very important and the bars must fit tightly together with no
gaps between them. I n a traditional hive the centres of each comb, looking vertically down on them, are
3.2 cm apart and it is for this reason that Top Bar hives follow the same dimension.
I nside the Top Bar Hive showing comb attached to the top bar.
11
Plants and beekeeping
The southern highlands of Tanzania are rich in plants attractive to bees. Of particular importance are
I ntenga ( Kotschya recurvifolia) and I nzigula ( Dodonaea viscosa) and crop plants such as maize (mainly
for pollen) and sunflower. Peaches, bananas and avocado are also valuable. Bees are considered to be
vital for pollinating peaches. Hedge plants such as I fipa ( Salvia coccinea), sisal, I nyangwa ( Caesalpinia
decapetala), I teti (Dracaena steudneri) and I ntwiti ( Brugmansia spp. and Solanecio mannii) are also
important because of their long flowering seasons. Traditional vegetables – I gagara ( Brassica carinata)
and Umuzimu ( Cleome gynandra) are good sources of nectar and pollen. Many trees are important
pollen and nectar producers, for example eucalyptus, I tanji ( Dombeya rotundifolia), I seve ( Erythrina
abyssinica), I liogoti ( Hagenia abyssinica), I sangati ( I lex mitis), I mogoro ( Schefflera spp. ), I fwomi
( Syzygium cordatum ), which grows around water sources, and I mpembati ( Polyscias fulva). Even weeds
have their part to play. I n particular Mputira ( Bidens steppia), which in May and June colour the hillsides
yellow, is an important source of both pollen and nectar.
Certain plants, such as sisal, produce a bitter honey when on their own. However, as long as there are
plenty of other sources of nectar flowering at the same time, this should not flavour the honey
adversely. I langali ( Euphorbia nyikae) and I woti ( Lobelia gibberoa) are said to produce poisonous
honey. Again, providing they are not the only source of nectar at the time, there should be no problem
with the honey produced. Many of the plants illustrated in the following pages have multiple uses. The
information is given to help farmers and development workers identify them and, in some cases, to
encourage them to plant or conserve them. The author would be particularly glad to hear of other
important bee plants and additional information regarding uses for those mentioned.
A supply of fresh water is important
for bees during the dry season. I f
there is no water close by it is
necessary to provide it, as this
beekeeper has done. Floating pieces
of wood assist the bees to drink
without drowning.
Left: Costa Mwamahonje
with a consignment of
honey from beekeepers in
Umalila. The honey is
marketed by Shukrani
I nternational College, Box
535, Mbeya.
Photo : David Watson
12
Acacia mearnsii
(Mimosaceae)
Common names Naluyami (Malila), muwati (Swahili), black wattle
Description A fast growing tree up to 15 m
tall. The tree often leans over due to the
shallow root system. The bark is grey becoming
black and splits and curls. A brown gum is
secreted from the bark. The compound leaves
are produced on stalks up to 12 cm long.
Flowers are sweet scented, pale-yellow and in
small rounded heads. Fruit pods are flat, 5 – 15
cm long, and contain up to 14 black seeds.
Ecology Usually grown in small plantations in
Umalila but also grown commercially elsewhere
at altitudes between 1,500 and 2,500 m. The
tree grows well on light textured, moist, acid
soils.
Propagation
Large numbers of seedlings
emerge following the burning of felled
plantations. Trees can be planted using seed put
in boiling water for 5 minutes or soaked in water
for 24 hours. A second species which spreads by
root suckers is also present.
Management Trees should be thinned out and
kept weeded while young.
Uses The tree provides a quick growing source
of high quality firewood and charcoal. The
timber is hard, heavy, fairly tough and durable.
I t is moderately easy to work and polishes well.
I t is used for house poles and maize stores, tool handles and general construction. The bark is an
important source of tannin, containing 30 - 45% high quality tannin. Bees are reported to be the main
pollinators. I f densely planted, the tree can be useful in erosion control. I t also fixes nitrogen, thus
improving the soil.
References Little 1983,
Crane & Walker 1984,
Mbuya et al. 1994,
I CRAF 1998
Carrying firewood home
from I tale forest
13
Acanthus ueleensis
(Acanthaceae)
Common names I nzonya, ihahatu (Malila), bear’s breeches
Description A semi-succulent
perennial herb or shrub up to 4
m high. Leaves are irregularly
lobed with margins bearing
spines towards the base. The
plant produces large pink to
pale mauve flowers.
Ecology
Common in forest
undergrowth in Umalila. Also
present in Malawi, D.R. Congo
and Uganda.
Acanthus ueleensis in a forest
near Maendeleo village
Propagation Can be grown
from seed, by division of the
rhizomes or by rooting cuttings.
Uses I n Umalila the leaves are pulped, put in water, together with
the leaves of Physalis peruviana and Coleus sp., and taken to relieve stomach-ache. Another species, A.
montanus, present in upland forest, is used in Nigeria mainly as a cough medicine. A. arboreus, A.
eminens, A. montanus and A. pubescens are also used as medicinal plants in Africa. A. eminens and A.
sennii, present in the Ethiopian highlands, are visited by honeybees when other sources of nectar and
pollen are in short supply. Some species, for example A. montanus and A. mollis, are grown for their
foliage and ornamental flowers.
References Burkill 1985, Brickell 1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Philips & Rix 1998, Neuwinger 2000, Llamas
2003, Burrows & Willis 2005
14
Aframomum zambesiacum
(Zingiberaceae)
Common names Nangawo
Description A leafy plant
growing
from
a
short,
branched rhizome. The leafy
stems grow in clumps up to 2
m tall. Leaves are 20 – 45 cm
long and 5 – 14 cm wide.
Margins and midribs bear
dense hairs underneath. 20 –
50 flowers are borne in
heads arising from the base
of the shoots. Petals are
whitish to creamy white with
a large crimson patch at the
base. The red fruits are oval
7 cm long and 4 – 5 cm
wide, thick walled, with
prominent ridges running
from top to bottom. The
shiny, dark brown seeds are
ellipsoid, 4 – 5 mm.
Left : Plant growing beside a
stream near I zumbwe
Ecology Grows in Malawi,
DR Congo, Cameroon and Nigeria in upland forests and secondary growth often near paths and streams
between 1,450 and 2,050 m altitude.
: Flowers and
fruits are borne on a
stalk 10 – 40 cm long.
Right
Uses I n Umalila the
juice surrounding the
seeds is reported to be
effective
in
curing
tropical ulcers. Seeds
are also pounded and
eaten to expel tape
worms.
References FTEA
1985
15
Agarista salicifolia
(Ericaceae)
Synonym Agauria salicifolia
Common names I zenya (Malila), myunguvo (Swahili)
Description
A small, often twisted,
evergreen tree or shrub which grows up to12 m high. The bark is very rough and split,
having corky ridges. Leaves are leathery,
shiny, 2 - 12 cm long and 0.8 – 3.5 cm wide,
yellowish to pale whitish beneath and having
a rounded base. The midrib of the leaf may
have some hairs. The flowers are numerous,
yellowish-white or pink, crimson at the base,
on stalks to 12 cm long growing from the
axils. Fruits are reddish-brown, round, 5 - 7
mm in diameter.
Agarista salicifolia in flower in October
Ecology Grows at the forest edge or in secondary forest and in high altitude grassland. Also found in
Cameroon and Fernando Po, and widely dispersed in East, Central and southern Africa and in
Madagascar. The shrub is fire resistant.
Uses Branches are used as firewood in
Umalila. Elsewhere in Tanzania the leaf ash
is used medicinally being rubbed into
scratches made on the area affected by
rheumatism. I n Madagascar leaf powder is
rubbed on the skin to treat scabies, itch
mite and skin problems. Some people
report that bees visit the flowers in
Umalila. An edible caterpillar (I nsega)
feeds on this plant and is usually found in
March. A bark infusion is used by the
Maasai to aid indigestion after eating too
much meat. The Chagga use the leaves as
an insecticide.
Remarks Though some people in Umalila
reported that goats eat the plant the
leaves are known to be lethally toxic to both man and stock. Even dead leaves cause vomiting,
convulsions, respiratory difficulties and coma. The roots are also toxic. Smoke from burning the leaves
is also said to be poisonous.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Beentje 1994, Burkill 1994, Neuwinger 2000, Kihwele et al.
2001, Lovett et al. 2006
16
Agave sisalana
(Agavaceae)
Common names I katani (Malila), mkonge (Swahili), sisal.
Description Sisal is a short lived perennial with a thick stem up to 120 cm high having a rosette of
leaves each growing up to 120 cm long. The plant produces 200 - 250 leaves each tipped with a sharp
spine. A flowering pole, 5 – 6 m tall, is produced at the end of the plant’s life. Though the plant flowers,
seeds are rarely produced and the plant multiplies by bulbils produced on the flowering pole after the
flowers have fallen.
Ecology A hardy plant which grows best where
rainfall is between 1,000 and 1,250 mm. I t is
still commercially grown in Brazil and East
Africa. I t grows on a wide range of soils from
sandy loam to clay, but prefers calcareous soils
with adequate potassium. Water-logging results
in stunted plants. I t is drought hardy.
Propagation Suckers or preferably bulbils,
which are collected when they fall, are used for
planting and grow easily.
Uses Sisal is widely grown in villages in Umalila
as a hedge plant. The fibre is extracted from the
leaves, and used for making string and rope for
tethering livestock. I t can also be used for
making bags and mats. Leaf fibres may be up to
1 m long and are very strong. Sisal is naturally
hard wearing and resistant to sunlight and these
qualities have ensured its continued use. The
poles are used for fuel once they are dry or can
be split and used for light construction work,
though they are very susceptible to termite
attack. Sisal is a valuable bee plant because of
its irregular and long lasting flowering periods
and is of great attraction especially during times
Sisal grown as a hedgerow plant near Sasyaka.
of pollen shortage. I t provides sufficient nectar
for stimulating brood rearing. The honey is
however dark and of strong and unpleasant
flavour. The plant also has a number of
medicinal uses.
Remarks A. fourcroydes is also grown for its
fibre. Leaves for fibre production can be cut
after two years. The whole plant dies after
about seven years.
References I wu 1993, Purseglove 1972, Fichtl
& Adi 1994, Mbuya et al. 1994, van Wyk &
Gerricke 2000, Raemaekers 2001
Kikapu made from sisal fibre
17
Albizia gummifera
(Fabaceae)
Common names Mkenge (Swahili).
Description A large deciduous tree up to 30 m high. Bark grey and smooth. Up to 16 pairs of leaflets,
1 – 2 cm long, shiny, dark green, almost rectangular with a diagonal midrib and one outer corner
rounded. Flowers white with long protruding red stamens. Bundles of flat, shiny brown pods are
produced, having raised edges, 20 cm long and 3 cm wide. The tree is fast growing.
Ecology Grows in East and Central Africa and in Madagascar. I n Tanzania the tree is found from the
coastal hills to Kilimanjaro and Kagera at altitudes between 600 and 2,350 m. I t is often associated with
high altitude forests.
Propagation Can be grown from seed, in seedbeds or by direct sowing, or by using wild seedlings.
Seed normally has a germination rate of 70 – 80% within 3 – 10 days. Fruits should be collected while
on the tree to minimize insect damage. Older seed should be soaked in warm water which is then left to
cool. Alternatively the seed coat can be nicked to hasten germination. Seed can be stored for up to one
year.
Management The tree can be lopped or coppiced when young.
Uses I n Umalila the flowers are reported to be visited by bees in October. I n Ethiopia A. gummifera var.
gummifera produces large quantities of pollen and nectar and is very attractive to bees. The tree
produces a strong timber that is light, soft and straight grained and easy to work. I t has a golden finish.
I t is used as a substitute for oak, making mortars, water troughs and beehives. I t has good elastic and
tensile properties and glues and lacquers well. I t is used for making beds in Malawi. The timber is used
for firewood and charcoal. The pods, roots, bark have medicinal uses. The leaves can be fed to
livestock. The tree has value for soil conservation, nitrogen fixing and shade. Leaves can be put in
between bunches of bananas to ripen them. The bark exudes a clear insoluble gum.
References FTEA 1959, Wild et al. 1972, Williamson 1975, NAS 1979, Coates Palgrave 1983, Fichtl &
Adi 1994, Mbuya et al. 1994, Dharani 2002, Lovett et al 2006
18
Albizia schimperiana
(Fabaceae)
Common
names I ntanga
(Malila), long podded Albizia
Description
A
semideciduous tree growing to 30
m, having an umbrella shaped
crown. Bark smooth, pale grey
to brown, the small branches
having velvety-brown hair.
Leaves are compound with 2
– 7 pinnae on stalks about 25
cm long. Leaflets are less than
2 cm long, usually hairy, shiny
above, paler below with a
diagonal midrib and rounded
tips. Flowers white or cream
in loose, conspicuous heads,
the flower stems being hairy.
The numerous, dull brown
seed-pods persist for a long
time and are 18 - 34 cm long
x 2.8 - 5 cm wide. They have
thick edges and contain up to
5 seeds.
Ecology Grows well in cool mountain areas up to 2,000 m. Also present near water and in lowland
areas in eastern, central and tropical Africa.
Propagation Best grown from seed rather than wild seedlings. The seed should be collected from the
fruits as soon as they mature to prevent insect damage. Soak in hot water unless seed is fresh. Seed
can be stored for up to 2 years if kept cool and dry.
Management Seedlings should not be kept in the
nursery for too long. Plant out under the shade of
other trees. The tree can be grown along contours
with grass for soil conservation. I t is a fast growing
species.
Uses The yellowish-brown, fairly hard timber is used
for building and furniture, hoe handles, grain mortars,
honey barrels, charcoal making and firewood. The
tree fixes nitrogen and is useful for soil conservation.
I t is sometimes grown as a shade for coffee. Bees
collect nectar and pollen throughout the day, though
the flavour of the honey produced may not be liked by
some people. The bark is used traditionally as a cough
remedy.
Photo : Najma Dharani
References Fichtl & Adi 1994, Mbuya et al. 1994,
Msanga 1998, Lovett et al. 2006
19
Allium cepa
(Alliaceae)
Synonym A. ascalonicum
Common names I shitunguru (Malila), kitunguu (Swahili), onion, bulb onion, shallot
Description
Both the common
onion, producing a single bulb and
grown from seed, and shallots,
producing a cluster of smaller bulbs
grown from a single mother bulb are
grown. Bulbs are variable in shape,
size and colour and are covered with
a thin papery skin.
Left : Common onion
Ecology Onions are usually planted
in May in Umalila. They tolerate a
wide range of soils. Loose sandy soils
with a high level of organic matter
produce
good
crops.
High
temperatures
encourage
bulb
development. Yields are likely to be
reduced during heavy rainfall, due to
the greater risk of disease. A dry period is required for ripening the bulbs. Shallots are grown on a small
scale and are best planted so that they ripen in
the dry season.
Propagation Onions are planted from seed and
then transplanted. Shallots are planted by
dividing the clumps of mature shallot bulbs,
which have completed their dormant period by
being stored for at least 6 weeks after
harvesting. The clusters are separated and
individual bulbs planted, two-thirds below the
surface, in prepared beds with a well-firmed
surface. Spacing is usually 25 - 30 cm apart and
12 - 15 cm between bulbs. Bulbs are usually
planted towards the end of the rain season.
Right : Shallots
Management Shallot bulbs, which are formed
in clusters of 4 - 8, can normally be harvested
60 - 100 days from planting, by which time the
leaves will have become yellow.
Uses Shallot leaves are used for flavouring, the
bulbs are eaten raw or cooked; sometimes they
are picked and dried or preserved. I t is generally
considered that shallots have a stronger flavour
than bulb onions. Onion and garlic extracts are
known to have antibacterial properties.
References Purseglove 1972, Tindall 1983, Messiaen & Rouamba 2004
20
Allium sativum
(Alliaceae)
Common names Kitungu sumu (Swahili), garlic
Description An erect herb, 30 – 60 cm tall, with a shallow root system. The bulbs are composed of a
disc-like stem, thin dry scales, which are the bases of foliage leaves, and smaller bulbs or cloves formed
from buds of the younger foliage leaves.
Ecology Garlic is grown at high altitudes in East and
southern Africa. I n Umalila the crop is sometimes planted
with onions. The plant requires a fertile, well-drained
sand or silt loam soil, preferably with good moisture
retaining properties. Yield depends on the amount of
growth before bulb development takes place. Bulbs form
during longer days at higher temperatures though lower
temperatures afterwards help the bulbs to mature.
Altitudes between 500 - 2,000 m provide good growing
conditions. Bolting does not seem to be influenced by
temperature. High humidity and rainfall are bad for both
vegetative growth and bulb formation.
Propagation Plant cloves at 30 x 15 cm spacing at a
depth of 5 -7 cm, timed so that the plants mature in the
cool dry season. When the tops die down lift the bulbs
and hang in bundles in a dry well aired place. Keep good
bulbs for planting the next season.
Management The crop must be kept clean weeded.
Garlic responds well to organic manure. Bulbs mature 4 6 months after planting, when the tops begin to dry and
bend over. Bulbs should be dried for a week or so in the
field or under shade. Cured bulbs can be stored for
several weeks.
Uses The cloves are used to flavour meat, fish, sauces and salads either cooked or eaten raw. Garlic
contains a chemical with anti-bacterial properties and is also used to lower cholesterol and to treat
colds, but can react with some other medicines. The juice can be
used to repair glass and china. Garlic extract has been shown to
be effective in killing root knot nematodes. I t is also used to repel
birds and to control a variety of insect pests. Soak 100 g finely
grated garlic for 24 hours in 2 teaspoons of engine oil. Dissolve
10 gm soap in 500 ml water, mix with the garlic and mineral oil,
stir well together and filter through a fine cloth. Dilute this
solution with 20 parts water for spraying on crops. Alternatively
soak 3 finely ground garlic bulbs for 2 days in liquid paraffin and
then stir well with a large spoonful of soap flakes and 10 litres
water. Use the mixture straight away to protect crops.
Remarks Some varieties will not produce bulbs under tropical conditions.
References Hadfield 1960, Jones & Mann 1963, Tindall 1968, Uphof, 1968, Purseglove 1972, Tindall
1983, Stoll 2000, Messiaen & Rouamba 2004, van Wyk & Wink 2004
21
Amaranthus cruentus
(Amaranthaceae)
Common names I nzembwa (Malila), mchicha (Swahili), amaranth, African spinach, I ndian spinach
Description An annual herb up to 2 m tall. The leaves are twice or three times as long as wide and
often have pointed tips. This species is known to be highly resistant to root-knot eelworms.
Ecology Cultivated throughout the tropics and subtropics. Growth rate is best at high temperatures, in
bright light and with adequate water and minerals. Daily watering is required as shortage of water
causes early flowering, reduces yield and produces a poor quality crop. Amaranths perform better than
Celosia species in open areas, the latter preferring some shade. The crop responds well to organic
manure, which tends to encourage leaf production and delay flowering.
Propagation By seed, but germination is irregular. Planting can be done at any time and the seedlings
can be either left in the planting bed and harvested whole or transplanted 20 x 20 cm apart once they
are 5 - 8 cm high. The side shoots are then harvested as required. Tender plants need some protection
from heavy rain.
Management The plant is either uprooted whole or cut back at a height of 10 - 15 cm to produce side
shoots. Cutting low down retards bolting but at least two leaves and buds should be left on the plant.
Yields of 30 to 40 tons/ ha may be obtained. Wet rot or stem rot is a major problem, favoured by wet
conditions and poor soil fertility. Avoid planting too densely. Caterpillars, in particular, but also
grasshoppers and stem borer larvae, can be troublesome.
Uses A minor vegetable crop in Umalila, though important at lower altitudes. The green leaves have a
an average protein content of 4.6 g per 100 g edible portion. The shoots can be picked regularly and
make a good spinach. The plant is an important source of vitamins A and C, calcium and iron and also
of lysine, an essential amino-acid. Protein concentration is highest before flowering. No more than 200
g of leaves should be eaten per day to avoid oxalate poisoning.
References Martin et al 1998, Schippers 2002, Grubben 2004
22
Amphicarpaea africana
(Fabaceae)
Synonym Shuteria africana
Common names I zanji
Description A perennial climbing
herb which may grow from 60 cm
to 3.6 m long. The stems are
slender and covered with reddish
hairs. The leaves are composed of
three leaflets, 1.8 - 7 cm long and
1 – 5 cm wide. The leaf stalk is
1.3 – 10.5 cm long. The plant
produces a mass of attractive
purple flowers at the end of the
rains. The seed pod may be from
2.6 to 3.5 cm long and contains a
few red brown or purple seeds.
Ecology Grows in upland rain
forest, at the forest edges, in
bamboo forest and in grassland
where
there
was
forest
beforehand. Altitude range 1,680
– 2,700 m. The plant is also
present in Kenya, Uganda, eastern
D.R. Congo, Burundi, Sudan,
Ethiopia, Malawi and Zambia.
Uses Bees are reported to visit
the flowers.
References FTEA 1974, Blundell
1987, FZ 2000, Burrows & Willis
2005
Pounding wheat at a home in Maendeleo
village
23
Annona cherimola
(Annonaceae)
Common names I nono (Malila), matope tope, mtomoko (Swahili), cherimoya, cherimoyer
Description
A small semideciduous tree growing 3 - 10 m
high. I t is vigorous when young,
branching from the base. New
buds cannot sprout until the old
leaves are shed. Leaves are 10 20 cm long, light green and
arranged alternately.
The
under-surface of the leaf has a
covering of brown velvety hairs.
Flowers are usually solitary and
hang down on short hairy stalks.
The three outside petals are
pale yellow with a purple spot at
the base and there are also 3
inner red-purple petals. Flowers
are fragrant. Pollination is
normally carried out by beetles, but hand pollination can improve fruit setting. The heart-shaped fruits
are from 8 - 15 cm in diameter and the flesh is creamy-white and
granular.
Ecology Probably from the highlands of Peru and Ecuador. I t
requires a mild, dry, sub tropical climate and is killed by excessive
heat or frost. I t grows well in the southern highlands of Tanzania.
I t can be grown in a wide range of soil types but prefers sandy
soils and clay loam. Rainfall and high humidity are needed during
flowering for good fruit production. The tree is susceptible to wind
damage.
Propagation The best plants are obtained from budding, or
preferably grafting at the start of the growing season. Side-whip
grafts or cleft-grafts are the best methods to use. Branches
should be defoliated 1 to 2 weeks before scion wood is cut to stimulate bud swelling. T budding and
chip budding methods are successful but there are considerable graft incompatibilities among Annona
species. Rootstocks are grown from seed, which retains its viability for several years if kept dry. Seeds
are generally sown in a seed bed and germinate after about 4 weeks. The young plants are
transplanted to a nursery when one year old. They should be planted out at 45 cm in the row and 1 m
between rows.
Management Cherimoyas are easy to transplant even when 6 - 8 years old but this should be done at
the start of the rain season. Normally planting out is done when the plants are 30 - 46 cm high with the
union of grafted or budded trees being 15 cm above ground level. Standard planting distance for
cherimoya is 5 x 6 m. Best results are obtained if the tree is pruned to form a single stem to about 90
cm. I t should then be cut back to produce lateral branches. These should be spaced 15 - 25 cm above
each other and be allowed to grow in different directions. After about 2 m they can be left to grow
naturally. Pruning is done during the dormant period. Low branches and those that cross should be
removed to allow light into the centre of the tree. Little pruning is required to obtain a good crown.
Uses Cherimoya is eaten fresh and considered to be the best of the Annona fruits. The fruit contains
about 18% sugar and is a good source of vitamin C. The green fruit and seed are used to make up an
insecticide and can also be used to control parasitic worms.
References Purseglove 1968, Garner et al. 1988, Mbuya et al.1994, Nakasone & Paull 1998
24
Aphloia theiformis
(Flacourtiaceae)
Synonym A. mauritiania, A. myrtifolia
Common names I patatiho (Malila), albino berry
Description A shrub or tree up
to 20 m high. Twigs may appear
faintly zigzagging. Bark brown,
smooth. Leaves are alternate,
simple, 3 – 8 cm long and 1.2 –
2.8 cm wide, inclined to droop,
glossy and dark-green above.
Flowers are
white,
sweet
scented, 10 mm in diameter,
and appear in groups of 1 to 3
in the leaf axils. They turn
cream then yellow on ageing,
and have a conspicuous central
mass of yellow stamens. The
fruits are white, soft and fleshy
and about 0.5 cm in diameter
when mature.
Ecology Found in medium to
high altitude evergreen forests,
forested ravines and at forest
margins. Altitude range 1,250 – 2,450 m. The shrub is also present in Kenya, Malawi, Zambia,
Zimbabwe, South Africa, Madagascar and on the Mascarene
islands of the I ndian Ocean
Uses I n Umalila the wood is used to make pestles for
pounding maize when preparing ugali (maize porridge). The
shrub produces a white edible fruit. Leaves are used as a tea
substitute in the Mascarene I slands. A root decoction is drunk
by the Hehe people in Tanzania to treat intestinal worms. I n
Madagascar a tea made from the leaves is used to treat
malaria, fever, blood in the urine and to promote urination.
References Uphof 1968, Kokwaro 1976, Coates Palgrave
1983, Mabberley 1997, Neuwinger 2000, White et al. 2001,
Burrows & Willis 2005, Lovett et al. 2006
25
Argemone mexicana
(Papaveraceae)
Common names Mexican poppy, prickly poppy
Description A spiny annual herb, which grows up to 1 m tall. Leaves are green or bluish and deeply
lobed. When cut they produce a yellow juice. The margins are sharply toothed. Flowers are pale yellow
and up to 5 cm across. Seed capsules are smooth or bristly and 3 – 4 cm long. They explode when dry.
Seeds are round, black, have a pitted surface and contain an oil.
Ecology A weed of waste ground, often found in dry places, on roadsides and abandoned cultivation.
The plant was introduced from Mexico. Usually the altitude range is from 1 – 1800 m though the above
plant was growing near I lembo town at 2000 m. The plant is present throughout East Africa.
Uses The flowers are known to be an important bee forage in Australia and tropical America, where the
yellow pollen is much sought be bees. However there are reports that the honey produced can cause
madness. I n Malawi the leaves are eaten as a vegetable after being cooked with potashes to soften
them. Pounded groundnuts are added. The leaves tend to be bitter if collected from plants growing in
dry places. The seed oil can be used for illumination and in Nigeria is applied to preserve timber from
termite attack.
Remarks The seeds are known to be poisonous and are sometimes found in badly cleaned wheat or
with mustard seed, which it resembles, and which it often grows with in I ndia. Eating them can cause
dropsy and cancer of the pharynx and stomach.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Morton 1964, Williamson 1975, Kokwaro 1976, Blundell
1987, Burkill 1997, Llamas 2003
26
Azadirachta indica
(Meliaceae)
Common names Mwarubaini, mkilifi (Swahili), neem
Description A small to
medium
sized,
deep
rooted, evergreen tree
up to 15 m tall. The red
heart-wood is hard and
durable.
Leaves
are
alternate and crowded
towards the end of the
branches. Fruits, 1 – 2
cm long, ripen from
yellow to purple.
Ecology Native to I ndia
Azadirachta indica growing at an altitude of 2,000 m in Umalila
but grown widely in the
tropics. The tree is
drought tolerant and
grows well on most
soils,
including
dry,
stony, clay and shallow
soils. However it will not
grow in waterlogged
soils. I t is deep rooted
and can extract moisture
and nutrients from poor
sandy soils.
Propagation Fresh seed (no more than 2 - 3 weeks after harvesting) is planted in a nursery or can be
planted direct with crops. Seeds usually germinate well after about one week. No seed treatment is
necessary. The tree can also be grown from root or shoot
cuttings. I t requires careful weeding until established. Light
shade assists early growth.
Management The tree coppices freely and young shoots
grow fast.
Right : Fruits from the same tree
Uses I n Umalila the leaves are used to treat fever, stomach
ulcers and malaria. The tree is a fast growing source of good
firewood, which can be cut in an 8 year cycle. The wood
resists decay and termite damage and is used for house
construction and for making furniture. Neem poles are straight and strong. The seeds contain up to
40% of an oil that can be used in lamps. The seeds and leaves contain Azadirachtan, which is effective
against a large range of insect pests. They also contain chemicals that repel insects. The fruits must be
harvested when yellow, not greenish-yellow or brownish-yellow and should not come into contact with
soil to avoid the risk of developing aflatoxins. These reduce the pest control effectiveness and can be
harmful to humans. The fruit pulp should be first removed and the seed dried in the sun for one day
followed by 3 days in the shade, being stirred regularly so that complete drying takes place. Store in
well aerated bags. Seeds between 3 and 10 months old have the highest amount of Azadirachtan. To
make up a spray pound the seeds gently and add 50 g to 1 litre of water and allow to stand overnight.
Filter and add 1 ml liquid soap to the solution. Leaves can also be used at the rate of 1 kg leaves to 5
litres water. Chop and soak the leaves overnight. Add 1 ml liquid soap to 1 litre solution. I n I ndia the
flowers are an important source of a light golden honey.
References NAS 1980, Crane et al. 1984, Mbuya et al. 1994, I CRAF 1998, Kihwele et al. 2001, Pousset
2004
27
Bambusa vulgaris
(Poaceae)
Common names I lansi (Malila), bamboo
Description A bamboo of medium size with
quick growing stems to 10 m high. The
stems are very strong.
Ecology Originally from Java but now
found and also widely cultivated throughout
tropical Africa.
Propagation Divide the clumps, plant out
rhizomes or take cuttings from the stems.
Management Bamboo can be cut in a 3
year cycle.
Uses Stems are widely used for construction
purposes - houses, huts, bridges and fences.
They are also used as irrigation pipes. Split
poles can be used for baskets and fences
(see below), roofing tiles, and planting tubes
for tree seedlings. Stem sheaths are used as
covers for beehives. They last longer than
banana stem sheaths. Goats browse the
leaves. The plant is especially useful for
erosion control e.g. around water sources. The young shoots are edible.
Split bamboo made into
a basket called I shitundu
Remarks Bamboo is very susceptible to
borer attack. Soaking the stems in water
for 2 - 3 months helps to protect them.
References Purseglove 1972, Burkill 1994
Below : Bamboo used to make a fence.
28
Basella alba
(Basellaceae)
Synonym B. rubra, B. cordifolia
Common names Nderema (Swahili), vine, I ndian or Ceylon spinach.
Basella alba growing over a fence in I lembo village
Description A soft, twining perennial plant up to 4 m long. Stems are fleshy, green, often tinged
brownish-purple. Leaves heart shaped with pointed tip, soft, shiny, dark green, blade up to 10 cm long
or more. Flowers are small, fleshy, cream or white and borne on an erect stalk.
Ecology Found in forested areas
in Umalila, particularly where
partial clearing has taken place.
Common in disturbed areas, from
0 – 2,450 m. Often grows in
hedges in villages and around
homes in Umalila.
Propagation Can be grown from
20 cm long stem cuttings.
Alternatively plant the whole fruit
in a nursery and then transplant
seedlings when 10 – 12 cm high.
Uses Though the leaves are not
traditionally used as a vegetable in Umalila they are widely eaten elsewhere. They are sometimes fed to
cattle. The plant is used to relieve constipation in animals and humans.
References Tindall 1983, Maundu et al. 1999, Abukutsa-Onyango 2004
29
Begonia sutherlandii
(Begoniaceae)
Common names I wozya
Begonia sutherlandii growing on a tree in I lomba forest.
Description A tuberous perennial herb with fleshy pink stems from 10 to 80 cm long. Leaves are
commonly dark green and veined with red and covered with short hairs on the underside. They are
asymmetrical in shape and the margin is toothed. Flowers are 2 to 2.6 cm in diameter usually orange or
orange–red with yellow
anthers.
Ecology The plant is
common throughout the
Southern Highlands and
often found hanging
over rocks in damp
shady situations or on
trees. Also present in D.
R. Congo and in South
Africa.
Propagation
Can be
grown
easily
from
cuttings or leaves laid on
the soil, or can be grown
from seed.
Uses The red stems and the leaves are eaten in Umalila. An infusion of the leaf and stem of the plant is
used medicinally by Zulu people in South Africa to treat heartburn and vomiting of blood.
Remarks The leaves of another species, B. macrocarpa are eaten in D.R. Congo and Angola.
References Jex-Blake 1957, Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Cribb & Leedal 1982, Neuwinger 2000,
Lemmens 2004, Burrows & Willis 2005
30
Berkheya echinacea subsp. polyacantha
(Asteraceae)
Common names Kakato
Description
A perennial
herb with an erect stem, 60
to 100 cm tall. The plant is
covered with soft bristle-like
hairs. Lower leaves are up to
13 cm long and 3 cm broad
but the upper leaves are
smaller. Flower heads are
yellow, 5 – 6.5 cm across
surrounded by soft hairy
bracts about 2 cm long.
Flowers are produced in
October/ November. This sub
species differs from the
South African species being
larger in size and having
longer and broader leaves.
Ecology
The
plant
is
widespread above 1,600 m
in the Southern Highlands
and western Tanzania, and
also present in Malawi and
Zambia. I t can be cultivated
as
an
ornamental
but
requires full sun and fertile soil.
Propagation Plants can be divided
or grown from seed.
Uses Bees are known to collect pollen
and nectar from other species, B.
purpurea in South Africa and B.
spekeana in Ethiopia. Other species
are used medicinally in Africa.
References Kokwaro 1976, Cribb &
Leedal 1982, Brickell 1994, Fichtl &
Adi 1994, Neuwinger 2000, van der
Walt 2005
31
Bersama abyssinica subsp. abyssinica
(Melianthaceae)
Common
names
I swago
(Malila), winged bersama.
Description A shrub or
medium sized tree up to 20 m
high with a straight trunk. The
compound leaves are borne at
the end of the branches and
have 6 – 10 pairs of leaflets, 5
– 13 cm long, and one terminal
leaflet. The leaf stalk is winged.
Flower heads may be up to 35
cm long and the flowers are
scented. Fruit is a capsule with
4 to 5 lobes and a diameter of
2.5 cm.
Ecology Occurs along banks in
wooded river valleys, at the
edges of evergreen forest and
also in open woodlands. I n Tanzania the tree is common in highland forest margins in the Mbeya
region. A high altitude tree growing between 2,000 and 2,400 m. Bersama abyssinica is widespread
over much of Africa though the subspecies does not occur south of Malawi.
Flowers produced in October at Sheyo
Propagation
Seeds,
root
suckers,
cuttings
and
wild
seedlings can be used. Seed
germination may take from 5 - 10
weeks. The fruit should be
collected from the tree and
ripened in the shade for 2 to 3
days. Seeds are then removed
from the fruit by hand. They
remain viable for one month after
collection. The seed coat must be
removed before sowing.
Management
A fast growing
tree which can be coppiced,
lopped or pollarded. I t can be
planted around crop fields.
Branch with fruit in June
Uses Wood is soft and not durable and is used mainly for firewood, though it is sometimes used for
carving and making utensils (stools, water-pots and beehives) and for medicine. The leaves are crushed
and used as a snuff for colds. The roots and bark are used as a purgative and, in stronger doses,
against intestinal worms. A decoction of the stem bark is
used to treat cancer and rheumatism in Tanzania. The
leaves and shoots are pounded together and used to control
stalk-borer attack in maize. The roots also have insecticidal
properties. Seeds can be used as a substitute for soap. The
tree is an important bee forage plant in Umalila and makes
a good shade tree.
Remarks The tree should be used as a medicine w ith
great care as most parts are know n to be poisonous.
Leaves are also poisonous to livestock.
References Kokwaro 1976, Coates Palgrave 1983, Fichtl &
Adi 1994, Mbuya et al. 1994, Burkill 1997, Msanga 1998,
Neuwinger 2000, Dharani 2002, Lovett et al. 2006
32
Bidens magnifolia
(Asteraceae)
Synonyms B. dolosa, B. phelloptera, B. lynesii, Coreopsis frondosa
Common names I ndelengu
Description A perennial herb or shrub, from 60 cm to 3 m high. The plant produces many branches.
Leaves are deeply divided, 6 – 20 cm long and 5 – 16 cm wide, with saw toothed edges. Flower stalks 2
– 20 cm long. The seeds are dark brown.
Bidens magnifolia in flower in July
Ecology Found in secondary vegetation after removal of the forest and along forest margins. The plant
is only known in Tanzania.
Uses Bees were seen collecting nectar and pollen at midday. The plant is used to attract rats to a trap
in Umalila. The leaves are reported to be edible. The roots are used medicinally to treat pneumonia and
coughs. The plant fibres are used for string.
References Kokwaro 1976, Cribb & Leedal 1982, Peters et al. 1992, FTEA 2005
33
Bidens pilosa
(Asteraceae)
Common names
I mbunya, masikari,
ikapunika (Malila),
black jack
Description An erect
annual herb up to 1.5
m high, with lower
leaves usually made up
of 3 leaflets, each 8.5
cm long. The flowers,
1.5 cm across, are
composed of yellow
disc florets in the
centre and white outer
florets. The black fruits
are tipped with barbed
bristles which catch on
clothing and animal
fur.
Ecology
A serious
weed
common
in
disturbed
and
cultivated
land.
It
Black jack flowers over long periods in Umalila.
nearly always grows on
poor, exhausted soils from 400 – 2,400 m altitude. A native of South America but now spread
throughout Africa.
Uses Bees collect nectar from the flowers. Honey from the plant is pleasantly flavoured and granulates
slowly. B. magnifolia (I ndelengu), B. pinnatipartita (I ntengu), B. schimperi (Lizumba) and B. steppia
(Mputira) are also visited by bees in Umalila. The leaves of B. pilosa are sometimes eaten as a
vegetable and in soups. They have a bitter taste, but the young shoots,
2.5 - 5.0 cm long, are a favourite dish throughout southern Africa, eaten
fresh or dried and stored for later use. The plant is readily browsed by all
domestic stock including poultry and has a high nutritive value. I n Umalila
the leaves are sometimes used as a tea substitute. They are reported to
relieve excessive wind in the stomach. Plant extracts have shown antibacterial activity. The leaves are used to treat stomach-ache and intestinal
worms in Tanzania. The roots are used to treat constipation and malaria.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Goode 1974, Kokwaro 1976,
Crane et al. 1984, Burkill 1985, Peters et al. 1992, Blundell 1987, Fichtl &
Adi 1994, Ruffo et al. 2002
34
Bidens schimperi
(Asteraceae)
Common names Lizumba
Description An erect or straggling, branched herb growing 50 - 120 cm high. The stems are angled
and often reddish. Leaves are broadly ovate, deeply lobed, up to 22 cm long and 1.5 – 10 cm wide, and
borne on a hairy stalk. The large flowers are 3 - 5 cm in diameter, and produced at the end of the
stems. The brownish-yellow central disc is surrounded by bright yellow ray florets. The plant flowers
from March to August in Umalila.
Ecology A common weed in cultivated land and also found on roadsides and in open woodland.
Widespread in Tanzania, and found from Ethiopia and Somalia south to Mozambique, Angola and South
Africa.
Uses Bees are reported to visit the flowers for pollen and nectar. Leaves are eaten as a vegetable, after
chopping and cooking, either alone or with peas, pumpkins or Solanum nigrum . Coconut milk,
groundnut paste, tomatoes or onions are sometimes added for palatability. I n Malawi leaves and young
shoots are reported to be very bitter and not much liked. They are only eaten when there is little else.
The roots are used medicinally to treat coughs and colds elsewhere in Tanzania. A root decoction is
drunk for chest pains and a leaf extract is used as an enema for digestive problems in children.
References Wild et al. 1967, Williamson 1975, Kokwaro 1976, Cribb & Leedal 1982, Neuwinger 2000,
Ruffo et al. 2002, Burrows & Willis 2005
Matambo Salima with his family at I zumbwe. The house is roofed with split bamboo poles.
35
Bidens steppia
(Asteraceae)
Common names Mputira.
Bidens steppia in a maize field near I lembo
Description An annual herb from 0.7 to 2 m high. Leaves are much divided, up to 35 cm long and 26
cm wide. The yellow to orange flowers are borne either singly or in open groups. Fruits are smooth or
with very few hairs and two bristles, not hooked. The plant has a very long flowering period, from
March to October. However, as fields in Umalila are normally cultivated in June and July, the actual
flowering season may be restricted.
Ecology A common
weed of
cultivation, especially in maize
below 2,000 m in Umalila. I t is
also commonly found in grassland,
on roadsides and at forest edges.
I t is also present in flood plain
vegetation, bush/ grassland and
open woodland. Present from
Cameroon south to Angola and
east to Malawi, Mozambique and
Zimbabwe.
Uses An important bee forage in
Umalila. I t is thought to be the
main source for the June honey
flow. Bees collect pollen and
nectar in the early morning and
evening.
References Moriarty 1975, FAO 1988, Burrows & Willis 2005
36
Blepharis grandis
(Acanthaceae)
Common names
Description An erect perennial herb up to 1 m tall. The leaves and bracts are spiny. Flowers are bright
blue, set in clusters among prickly bracts. The seed hairs swell up when wet.
Ecology Grows on rocky ground
in scattered clumps. The plant is
widespread in south western
Tanzania and is also present in
Malawi where it is found in tall
grassland or in forest margins.
Also found in north eastern
Zambia, Malawi and northern
Mozambique.
Remarks
There
are
approximately 80 species of
Blepharis in the Old World tropics,
South
Africa
and
the
Mediterranean. Seeds of some
species are eaten in Africa. Some
species are used for treatment of
anthrax. Several species have
medicinal uses and a number are
visited by bees.
References Mabberley 1997, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, Neuwinger 2000, Burrows & Willis 2005
Preparing land for planting maize.
The soils are mostly deep volcanic
and easy to work but very dusty.
37
Bothriocline longipes
(Asteraceae)
Synonym B. eupatorioides
Common names I nsongole
Description An erect shrub
with stems 1 to 2.5 m high
growing
from
a
woody
rootstock. Leaves are spear
shaped, opposite, 4 – 20 cm
long and 1.5 – 9 cm wide, with
a petiole up to 4 cm long. The
violet coloured flower heads
are about 6 mm across.
Left : A butterfly ( Precis
octavia) collecting nectar from
a flower head near I lembo.
Ecology Commonly found on
forest edges in Umalila. Also
present in highland grassland,
usually on rocky outcrops, and
in long grass in high rainfall
wooded
grassland.
Often
present beside rivers at lower
altitudes. The plant grows in
l
similar sites over much
of Kenya at altitudes
between
1,300
and
2,440 m and in Sudan,
Malawi, Rwanda and
Burundi, and into D.R.
Congo and Angola.
Uses Bees collect nectar
from
the
flowers.
Honeybees
collect
abundant nectar and
pollen from a related
species B. schimperi in
Ethiopia where it is an
important
bee plant.
Locally the leaves are
used to clean out pots
which have been used
for milk. Elsewhere the plant has a number of medicinal uses.
References Blundell 1987, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Neuwinger 2000, White et al. 2001, Burrows & Willis
2005
38
Brassica carinata
(Brassicaceae)
Synonym B. integrifolia var. carinata
Common names I gagara (Malila), figile (Swahili), Ethiopian kale, Ethiopian mustard, Abyssinian
mustard.
Description An annual herb growing to 50 cm
high but plants may reach 120 cm. Leaves are
blue-green in colour and have no hairs. Pale
yellow flowers are produced as soon as the soil
dries out. Seed pods are flat when pods are
quite dry. I n warm climates seed is readily
produced.
Ecology Commonly cultivated in East Africa
between altitudes of 1,500 and 2,600 m. Also
present in Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe and in
West Africa but nowhere common. I t appears as
a weed of cultivation particularly on fertile sites
such as abandoned cattle enclosures. I t grows
best when annual rainfall is between 600 and
1,600 mm.
Propagation Grown from seed which is often
mixed with ash to reduce insect damage to
emerging seedlings. Seed germinates after
about 5 days and seedlings are planted out at
75 x 50 cm (large leaved variety) or 50 by 35
cm (small leaved variety). I t is sometimes
planted together with Cleome gynandra. I f
manure is available it should be used for this
crop.
Management The vegetable is normally grown
in kitchen gardens to minimize bird damage. I t
is much hardier and less prone to disease than
B. juncea. Plants are often cut back when they
reach 15 cm to encourage the production of larger leaves. Flowering can be delayed by picking the
leaves regularly. Leaves should not be eaten for more than a few
weeks per year, because of the risk of goitre, but they also have anticarcinogenic properties and are therefore of value medicinally.
Uses Bees were frequently seen collecting both pollen and nectar
from the flowers. Leaves and young shoots are often used as a
vegetable in Umalila. Leaves are soft textured and have a mustard-like
taste. Sometimes the leaves are mixed with those of Cleome gynandra
which are then boiled and dried. The cooked vegetable has a sharp
odour but is not bitter. The plant is also grown as a fodder for
livestock. I n Ethiopia the seeds are crushed and the oil is used for
cooking or oiling earthenware baking plates. The seeds are also eaten
with meat in Ethiopia and contain 30 - 40% oil. The water from boiling
the leaves is used to treat diarrhoea.
Bee collecting pollen
and nectar
Remarks B. carinata is a hybrid formed from crossing B. nigra with B. oleracea.
References Oomen & Grubben 1978, FTEA 1982, Maundu et al. 1999, Mnaza & Schippers 2004
39
Brassica oleracea
(Brassicaceae)
Common names I lepu (Malila), sukuma wiki (Swahili), leaf cabbage, kale,
Description A branching cabbage growing up to
3 m high. Leaves are large 50 x 30 cm and borne
on long stalks. They are fleshy and more or less
coated with wax. The flower heads may be up to
100 cm long. Bees are the main pollinators.
Ecology Plants require a well drained and
manured soil, preferably a sandy loam. They grow
best in full sunlight with adequate moisture.
Planting is mainly done in March and April though,
if water is available, is continued into June. For
seed production a cool resting period is required
so it is more suited to higher altitudes.
Propagation Normally grown from seed or stem
cuttings. Seed cannot be stored for long. 2 - 2.5
kg of seed is required per ha, though if plants are
grown in a nursery for transplanting, only 300 –
500 gm is needed. Soak the seeds overnight
before planting for best results. Transplant when
plants are 7 - 10 cm high, 4 – 6 weeks after
sowing. Plant out at 20 – 30 cm between plants
with rows spaced 50 – 80 cm apart. Seedlings
may be attacked by click beetles, which eat small
holes in the leaves.
Management Harvest tender side shoots before they become too large.
Uses A popular and high yielding
green leaf vegetable. Leaves are
important
nutritionally
containing
some protein and are a valuable
source of several vitamins. Seed
extracts have given positive antibiotic
tests but these differ with the variety
grown. An oil is present in the seeds
which has antibacterial and antifungal
properties. Flowers secrete nectar
freely and are very attractive to
pollinating insects, especially bees.
Remarks Plants are generally more
resistant to pests and diseases than
the headed variety. Club root can
however be a major problem. To avoid
this plant the crop on ground not planted with Brassica species before or apply slaked lime at 170 gm
/ sq. m. Pest control can sometimes be achieved by using crushed neem tree seed (see Azadirachta
indica) in water to spray on plants. Alternatively grinding up the pests and spraying them on individual
plants has been reported as being effective in keeping pests away!
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Terra 1966, Purseglove 1968, Williamson 1975, Crane &
Walker 1984, Burkill 1985, Macmillan 1991, Martin et al 1998, Schippers 2002, Mvere & van der Werff
2004
40
Bridelia micrantha
(Euphorbiaceae)
Common names I liyisia (Kimalila), mwisya (Nyakyusa), mkarati, mtutu (Swahili).
Description A fast growing tree up to 18
m high with a dense spreading crown. The
trunk and branches usually bear spines.
Leaves are shiny above, elliptic to oblong,
simple, alternate, 6 - 15 cm long and 3 - 8
cm wide and have clear veins extending to
the leaf edge. The small white to yellow
flowers are borne in tight clusters in the
leaf axils. Fruit is a green berry, up to 1
cm long, which turns black on ripening.
Ecology Found at the edges of lowland,
mountain and riverine forest where it often
grows as a pioneer. Present throughout
tropical and southern Africa.
Propagation The tree is easily grown
from seed or can be grown from cuttings.
Pick the ripe fruits when they turn purple
or collect them from the ground. Squash
and remove the seed. Rinse the seed
carefully in water to remove all the flesh
and dry for 2 days in the shade. The fruit
pulp contains a growth inhibitor so must
be removed from the seed. Germination is
even and good, reaching 90 -100% after
30 days. Seed must be fresh. Sow the
seeds in a river sand compost mix (2:1).
Keep moist. Transplant at the 2 leaf stage.
Seedlings and young plants transplant
easily.
Management The tree is fast growing
and can be coppiced or pollarded. I t can also be grown as a hedge or boundary plant
Uses I n Umalila the trunk is used for making
beehives and the flowers are reported to be visited
by bees in March. The wood is greyish to yellowish
- white with a dark brown heart, hard, heavy and
termite proof. When worked it takes a good polish
and large timbers are good for indoor carpentry and
furniture. The wood is very durable in contact with
the ground and in water. I t is resistant to termites
and used for hut and fence posts. I t makes good
firewood and charcoal, giving out an intense heat.
The roots are extensive and are useful for binding
soil along drainage ditches etc.
The tree is useful as a shade tree and can be
planted in seasonally wet areas but should not be
planted near buildings as the roots may disturb
them.
The fruit is edible and tastes slightly like currants.
The leaves can be used as a livestock fodder.
I n Tanzania the bark is boiled and drunk to cure
stomach-ache and to expel tapeworms. The bark
can also be cooked with soup and mixed with milk
41
and given to children as a tonic. I n South Africa the root is used as a purgative and an infusion from the
root is taken orally for coughs. The powdered bark is applied to burns to assist healing. Leaf sap is
applied to sore eyes.
I n the inner bark and outer sapwood there is a sticky substance which is adhesive. Bark can also be
pounded to a paste for filling in door cracks.
The twigs and young leaves give a black dye used to blacken pottery. The pounded bark yields a red
dye.
The leaves are eaten by several species of African silk worm, Anaphe infracta, Anaphe panda, and
Anaphe reticulata. The pupa of these species are eaten by some people. Planting of this tree has been
encouraged for the production of silk worms but since the pupae are eaten first there are too few
remaining to use for silk production. An edible fungus grows under the tree.
References I rvine 1961, Busson 1965, Uphof 1968, Wild et al 1972, Williamson 1975, Kokwaro 1976,
Coates Palgrave 1983, Ambougou 1991, Burkill 1994, Katende et al. 1995, Venter & Venter 1996,
Msanga 1998, SEPASAL 1999, Ruffo et al 2002, Lovett et al. 2006
Bamboo pipes are frequently used for channeling
water from streams and rivers to villages for domestic
water supply and for irrigating vegetable gardens.
42
Brillantaisia kirungae
(Acanthaceae)
Synonym B. cicatricosa, B. ulugurica
Common names I nswina
Description A large shrub or small tree up
to 4 m high. Leaves are coarsely toothed.
Flowers are pollinated by carpenter bees.
Ecology Grows near streams and in moist
undergrowth in mid altitude to mountain
forest.
Left : Brillantaisia kirungae growing beside
a stream near I nyala
Uses Bees were seen collecting nectar in June.
Honeybees are known to collect nectar and pollen
from a related species, B. madagascarensis in
Ethiopia. The stems are sometimes used for
firewood. I n Burundi leafy twigs are pounded and
used as a dressing for dislocations. Leaf sap is
taken for dizziness. A leaf decoction is drunk to
treat fever and colds.
References Baerts & Lehmann 1989, Fichtl & Adi
1994, White et al. 2001
43
Brugmansia suaveolens
(Solanaceae)
Synonym Datura
gardneri, Datura
suaveolens
Common names
I ntwitwi (Malila),
moonflower, white angel's
trumpet
Description
A
shrub
growing to 3 m. Leaves
large, soft and hairy, 20 –
25 cm long. Flowers white
to peach coloured, funnel
shaped, up to 25 cm long,
hanging down at an
angle, with short lobe
spurs and mildly scented.
Calyx 3 – 5 toothed, loose
fitting, the corolla neck
extends beyond the end
of the calyx.
Moonflower being grown as a hedge at I lembo
Ecology Originally from
south-eastern Brazil but commonly grown in Umalila. I t will grow up to an altitude of 2,400 m.
Propagation The plant grows easily from large cuttings.
Uses Planted as a hedge. The flowers
are produced over a long period after
the rains. Bees were seen collecting
pollen and nectar. The plant has a
number of medicinal uses but is also
known to be poisonous.
Right : A Brugmansia hybrid
commonly grown in Umalila
Remarks There are many hybrids of
Brugmansia and the botanical names of
cultivated plants have not been finalized.
Some people report that the honey
produced from Brugmansia species has a
similar effect to that of alcohol. The
flowers
are
known
to
contain
Scopolamine, a hallucinogen.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk
1962, Morton 1964, Llamas 2003
44
Buddleja davidii
(Buddlejaceae)
Synonym B. variabilis
Common names I nswina ipete (Malila), butterfly bush, orange-eye, summer-lilac
Description
A vigorous evergreen or
semi-deciduous arching shrub growing
from 1 to 3 m high. There are many
varieties. Leaves are 5 - 7 cm long, spear
shaped, and dark green with white felted
undersides. Dense clusters of fragrant,
tubular, dark violet-purple flowers are
produced during the rain season in
southern Tanzania.
Ecology I ntroduced from southern China.
The plant grows best in a fertile soil in full
sunlight.
Propagation Can be grown from seed or
cuttings.
Uses Occasionally grown as a hedge plant.
Buddleja flowering in May in Umalila.
Remarks Plants are often attacked by
nematodes.
References Hay 1978, Hessayon 1983,
Brickell 1994, Llamas 2003
Near Shilanga in the rain season
Photo : David Watson
45
Buddleja salviifolia
(Buddlejaceae)
Common names Sagewood
Description
A
straggling shrub or small
evergreen
tree
with
whitish branches up to 4
m tall. Many stems often
grow up from the base
and the branches tend to
droop. Leaves are long
and narrow, opposite,
olive green above and
greyish and hairy below,
4 – 17 cm long and 0.8 –
4.5 cm wide. Flowers are
white to lilac, sweet
scented and in large
clusters at the ends of
the branches.
Ecology Occurs at the
edges of
forest, in
scrubland beside rivers, on rocky hillsides and mountain grassland. Altitude range 1,200 – 2,500 m.
Found from South Africa to Angola and north to Kenya. I t is a common pioneer species.
Propagation Can be grown from hardwood cuttings. The shrub can also be grown from seed. I f
available use a hormone rooting powder for cuttings and plant in river sand, which should be kept
moist. Cuttings strike after 2
– 3 weeks. The plant can be
grown in shade or full sun.
Management Hardy and
fast growing but rather
untidy, though it can be
grown as a hedge if kept
trimmed. I t rejuvenates well
after fire.
Uses Flowers are attractive
to bees and both pollen and
nectar are collected. The
plant
is
popular
with
beekeepers in South Africa.
I t is useful for stabilizing soil
on embankments and dams.
The fresh or dried leaves
can be used to make a tea.
This is best drunk with
honey and without milk. The heartwood is brown, close grained, compact, hard and heavy. I n South
Africa a decoction of the roots is used to treat coughs and for the relief of colic. An infusion of the
leaves is applied as an eye lotion.
Remarks The shrub is often attacked by insects.
References Wild et al. 1972, Coates Palgrave 1983, Venter & Venter 1996, Mutshinyalo 2001, Burrows
& Willis 2005
46
Caesalpinia decapetala
(Caesalpiniaceae)
Common names I nyangwa (Malila), Mysore thorn, Mauritius thorn.
Description A thorny shrub
Caesalpinia decapetala being grown as a hedge
or creeper which can grow up
to 10 m long. I t forms an
impenetrable
barrier.
The
branches, leaf stalks and
flower heads are armed with
thorns. Leaves are compound,
up to 50 cm long, having 6 –
10 pairs of pinnae each with
about 12 pairs of leaflets.
Flower heads are up to 30 cm
long with individual flowers
having
protruding
orange
stamens.
Seed-pods
are
leathery, about 8 cm long and
1 cm wide, and contain 4 – 9
seeds.
Ecology Commonly grown as
a hedge plant in Umalila. Native to tropical and subtropical Asia, but now present in scattered tree
grassland, clearings in lowland rain forest and
in medium to high rainfall areas in Africa. I t
does not thrive on poor soils. Altitude range
880 – 2,130 m.
Propagation Seeds are sown direct on site.
Soak seed in cold water for two days before
planting. Germination rate is above 60% . Seed
can be stored for long periods if kept dry and
insect free by mixing it with wood ash.
Management Fairly fast growing. This plant
can become a serious weed. Burning in the dry
season can be used to control it.
Uses Commonly grown as a hedge plant in
Umalila. Bees collect pollen and nectar. I n I ndia
the bruised leaves are applied to burns. The
plant is used as a purgative in South East Asia.
I n Burundi and Rwanda the plant is used to
treat inflammation of the skin, elephantiasis,
snakebite and insanity. Tannin for dyeing is
present in the stem and root bark.
Right : Flowering spike in a hedge surrounding
farmland at Sasyaka, Umalila.
References FTEA 1971, Wild et al. 1972,
Williamson 1975, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Mbuya et al 1994, Burkill 1995, Katende et al. 2000, Neuwinger
2000, I bnu Utomo 2001
47
Callistemon viminalis
(Myrtaceae)
Common names Bottle brush, weeping bottlebrush.
Description An evergreen shrub or tree from 4
- 9 m high with drooping branches. The tough
leaves are narrow, up to 8 cm long and aromatic
when crushed. The flowers have scarlet or
crimson stamens and are borne mainly in the
dry season in a cylindrical spike. Leaves
continue to be produced beyond the flowers.
Ecology Sometimes planted in gardens and
around houses in Umalila. I t will grow in damp
places or on poor dry soils.
Bees are active throughout the day on bottle
brush trees which flower freely over long
periods.
Propagation The tree can be grown easily
from seed. Germination is uniform after two
weeks. No treatment necessary. The seed stores
well.
Uses Bees gather nectar and pollen during the
dry season in Umalila. The wood can be used for
firewood and charcoal. The tree is sometimes
planted as an ornamental.
References Morton 1964, Crane et al. 1984,
Fichtl & Adi 1994, Mbuya et al. 1994, Bryant 1996, Llamas 2003
Laiton and Hezron Ulenje, beekeepers near I lomba with Envoy Ndere (right)
48
Canarina eminii
(Campanulaceae)
Common names Nanjok
Description A creeper which either climbs into trees or grows along the ground. The plant is covered
with a waxy surface. The root is thick, often with a corky surface layer. Stems are erect and climbing,
up to several metres in length, usually with a fine purple mottling. Leaf blades are triangular to oval in
shape, up to 10 cm long, with a toothed edge. The petiole is short. The flower is funnel shaped, up to
7. 5 cm long, orange to orange-red with veins running the length of the flower tube. Fruit is a berry.
Ecology Grows in upland or river forest. I t either grows on other plants or among rocks. I t has an
altitude range of between 1,600 and 3,200 m.
Propagation The plant can be grown from cuttings taken
from the base of the plant or by using seed.
Management A trellis is needed to support the vine.
Uses Leaves are crushed, put in water and the liquid given
to a cow that does not let down milk. I t is sometimes
cultivated as an ornamental plant. Bees are likely to visit
the plant as they are known to collect nectar and pollen
from other species in Ethiopia, e.g . C. abyssinica.
References Cribb & Leedal 1982, Blundell 1987, Brickell
1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994
49
Canna hybrida
(Cannaceae)
Common names I ngaya (Malila), Canna lily
Description A seasonally dormant herb
growing up to 3 m high from a rhizome
with many round projections. Leaves are
paddle-shaped with a large central vein.
The flowers may be red, orange or yellow.
The fruit capsule has 3 sections and is
covered with tubercules. Seeds are black,
round and hard.
Left : Canna lilies being grown as a hedge
around a church at I lembo.
Ecology Originally from central America.
Plants require full sunlight and humus rich,
moist soil.
Propagation Either the clumps can be divided and
planted just before the rains or the seeds can be sown.
Management The rhizomes grow outwards and may
need to be dug out to prevent them spreading.
Uses An ornamental plant but also sometimes grown as
a hedge in Umalila. I n other countries the rhizomes are
used medicinally to promote urination.
References Jex-Blake 1957, Uphof 1968, Brickell 1994,
Llamas 2003, Bryan 2002
50
Carica pubescens
(Caricaceae)
Synonym C. candamarcensis,
Vasconcellea cundinamarcensis
Common names Mpapai (Swahili),
mountain pawpaw.
Description A semi-herbaceous tree
with a crown of large, coarse, palmate
leaves, but otherwise smaller and more
branched than Carica papaya. The oval
fruits, 6 - 15 cm long, are borne after
18 months and produced throughout
the year. The firm orange-yellow flesh
has a pleasant acid and perfumed
flavour. The tree is highly resistant to
papaya viruses making it useful for
breeding work.
Left : Tree bearing fruit in June
Ecology Native to the Andean region
of South America. Occasionally grown
as a hedge plant in Umalila. I t only
grows at altitudes over 1,500 m in the
tropics.
Propagation I n Umalila trees are
often grown from 1 m long branches
taken
from
fruit
bearing
trees.
Elsewhere the plant is normally grown from seed but these are reported to produce mostly male plants.
Uses The flesh of the
fruits is eaten stewed
and sweetened, as a
preserve or candied,
and
seldom
eaten
raw. I t can also be
made into a drink and
is recommended for
dyspeptics. Both pulp
and seeds are eaten
and the juice is useful
for flavouring fruit
salads.
References Jex-Blake
1957,
Purseglove
1968, Uphof 1968,
Macmillan 1991, van
Balgooy 1991
Carica pubescens grown as hedge in I lembo village
51
Caylusea abyssinica
(Resedaceae)
Synonym Reseda abyssinica
Common names Ukwipa
Description
An erect herb,
occasionally bushy, usually an
annual plant but sometimes a
short-lived perennial. Leaves are
long, 2 – 8 cm, and thin. Flowers
are small, white and in flowering
heads up to 40 cm long. Anthers
are pink or orange, turning yellow
when mature.
Ecology Grows as a weed in
disturbed land and on riversides
between altitudes 1,200 and
3,000 m. Present from Sudan and
Ethiopia south to Malawi and
Rwanda and Burundi. Some
people leave wild plants growing
in their gardens or may even
plant the seed.
Propagation The plant can be
easily grown from seed.
Uses I n Umalila the young leaves
and stems are eaten after being
chopped up and cooked with
other vegetables.
The plant is also used to feed rabbits
and goats. The boiled leaves are used
medicinally to treat stomach pains and
for intestinal worms. Bees were seen
visiting the flowers in July and are
known to collect pollen and nectar over
an 8 month period in Ethiopia.
Above and right : Caylusea abyssinica
in flower near I lembo
References FTEA 1958, Peters et al.
1992, Blundell 1987, Fichtl & Adi 1994,
Ruffo et al. 2002, Jansen 2004
fl
52
Chassalia discolor
(Rubiaceae)
Common names I ntwati ya misengo
Chassalia discolor in flower in forest near Yalenga in October
Description A shrub 1 – 4 m high with finely ridged stems. Leaves are opposite, 4 – 15.5 cm long and
1.4 – 5 cm wide. The margins are often slightly wavy. The leaf stalk is 0.8 – 4 cm long. Flowers are
scented
and
borne
in
branched
panicles.
The
corolla tube is waxy, white
or white and pink, 12 – 21
mm long. Fruits may be
white, reddish or purple
black,
often
translucent,
round or two lobed, 5 – 6
mm in diameter.
Ecology
Present
in
evergreen forest and mist
forest from 1,300 to 1,950
m.
Uses
The
flowers are
reported to be visited by
bees. C. subochreata is
known to be a bee forage,
and the shrub is also used
for firewood, shade and as
amenity tree in Tanzania. Other species are used medicinally.
References FTEA 1976, Beentje 1994, Lovett et al. 2006
53
Chrysanthemum cinerariaefolium
(Asteraceae)
Synonym Pyrethrum cinerariaefolium
Common names Amaua (Malila), pyrethrum.
Description A perennial herb 30 – 60 cm tall with a shallow root system. Leaves are alternate 10 – 30
cm long with a long slender petiole. Flowers, 3 – 4 cm in diameter, are borne singly on long stalks. The
plant is 99% cross pollinated. The greatest content of pyrethrin is produced in the flowers when two or
three rows of disc florets have opened. Pyrethrin content can vary greatly between plants.
Ecology Flushes of flowers are only produced after
adequate rainfall. The higher the crop is grown the
better the pyrethrin content, an altitude of 1,500 m is
the lower limit for production in Tanzania. Fewer
flowers are produced during warm periods. Soils
should be rich and have good structure to avoid
erosion and to allow penetration of rainfall during the
three year cropping cycle.
Propagation
Vegetative
propagation
is
recommended to ensure that high pyrethrin content
clones are used. Avoid taking splits from ‘blind’
plants, recognised by the lack of dead flower stems
at the end of the season. Nurseries should be sited at
low levels to encourage rapid growth of plants which
also will produce plenty of splits for multiplication.
Old woody plants give few splits and the survival rate
after splitting is poor. A young vegetative plant
breaks up easily to give many splits. Splits can be
planted with only two leaves. Trim roots to 10 – 15
cm and plant at the same height and on the same
day as the original plants were uprooted. Do not
bend the roots and plant firmly.
Management (I n the nursery) Weed carefully and remove all flowers from plants in the nursery. Each
plant should be able to produce 12 small splits after 3 - 4 months. (I n the field) Remove all perennial
grasses before planting as deep weeding during cropping must be avoided. Ridging the land along the
contour gives a better crop. Allow 75 – 90 cm between ridges. Plant early in the rain season, allowing
30 cm between plants. Weed with small forked jembes not pangas or ordinary jembes and earth the
plants up at the same time. Cut back old stems to the level of the top of the foliage during the dry
season. This leads to an earlier and better flush of flowers in the following rains and reduces damage
done by bud disease. Pick flowers on dry hot days only, when two rows of disc florets are open. Pick
with forefinger and thumb, rolling the flower over and breaking it off with no stem attached. Sun dry
the flowers on trays turning the flowers 3 times per day. Store the dried flowers in air-tight containers in
the dark.
Uses The dried flowers are used as an insecticide, as a repellent and as a contact poison against a wide
range of insect pests. Care must be taken when picking drying and transporting to ensure that
fermentation and overheating do not take place. An insecticide can be made up as follows:- 500 gm
pyrethrum flowers are soaked in 4 litres kerosene for half a day. Strain off the liquid and use on aphids,
Colorado beetle, flea beetles, grasshoppers and cabbage worms. Alternatively 20 g pyrethrum powder
and 10 litres water are stirred together and sprayed on plants, preferably in the evening. Soap solution
can be added to act as a sticker. Greater effectiveness can be obtained using a combination of tobacco
and pyrethrum.
Remarks The plant is commonly grown in Umalila, however the area under the crop varies from year
to year according to the market.
References Gunn 1953, Purseglove 1968, Acland 1971, Stoll 2000
54
Chrysophyllum gorungosanum
(Sapotaceae)
Synonym C. fulvum
Common
names I palanyiji
(Malila), paranieji (Nyakyusa)
Description A tall evergreen
tree 30 – 40 m high with a
straight slender trunk fluted at
the base. Young branches, buds
and leaf stalks are covered with
golden brown hairs. Leaves are
stiff, 7 to 15 cm long, growing
on a stalk up to 2.5 cm long. The
lower surface is covered with
golden brown hairs. Midrib and
veins are prominent. Flowers are
cream yellow, very small, in
clusters in the leaf axils. Fruit is
oval to round, 5 celled, up to 4
cm long, with milky flesh.
Ecology Found in moist upland
rainforests in East Africa and
also in Malawi and Zimbabwe.
Propagation Seed can often be
found below mature trees.
Collect the fruit from the ground
extract and dry the seed before
storage. Add ash to protect it
from insect attack. Seed can be
sown in pots or wild seedlings
can be transplanted. Grow
seedlings in
established.
the
shade
until
well
Uses The timber is light coloured, of good
density, and used for cabinet making and
building. I t makes good firewood and
charcoal. The fruit is edible. Bees are
reported to visit the flowers.
References
Williamson 1975, Coates
Palgrave 1983, Beentje 1994, Katende et
al. 2000, Lovett et al. 2006
55
Cissampelos pareira
(Menispermaceae)
Common names Lusisia (Malila), mlagalaga (Swahili))
Description A herbaceous creeper. Leaves are roughly circular 2 – 12 cm in diameter. The petiole is
from 1 – 7 cm long and joins the leaf 1 – 4 mm from the base. Male and female flowers are separate,
arising from leaf axils, and may be up to 10 cm long. The fruit is a drupe 4 – 6 mm long and 3 – 4 mm
wide.
Ecology Found in upland and lowland rainforest, often persisting on cleared ground and in cultivated
land; also grows in secondary vegetation and near rock outcrops between 0 – 2,300 m.
Uses Reported as a bee plant in Umalila. String is made from the stem. The leaves are beaten, water
added and the liquid drunk to relieve stomach-ache. Elsewhere in Tanzania the roots are powdered,
mixed with water and used as a remedy for sore throats, colds, coughs, and for snake bite. Leaves and
roots are chewed for stomach and pregnancy pains. Burnt roots and leaves are used for curing wounds.
The plant is also used in Tanzania to treat hookworm, diarrhoea, miscarriage, headache, excessive
bleeding during menstruation, fever and hernias. I t is also an important medicinal plant in I ndia and
Nepal and in Guatemala, Nicaragua, Trinidad and Paraguay.
References FTEA 1956, Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Kokwaro 1976, Neuwinger 2000, Taylor 2005.
56
Clausena anisata
(Rutaceae)
Common names I syenje
Description A shrub or
small tree growing to 10
m high. Bark is smooth
and grey. All parts of the
plant
have
an
unpleasant smell when
bruised.
Leaves
are
compound up to 38 cm
long composed of 11 37
leaflets,
densely
dotted with glands and
more or less hairless.
Flowers are small, white,
in
loose
branched
clusters and smell of
aniseed.
Berries
are
small, up to 0.7 cm in
diameter and turn redpurple
or
blue-black
when ripe.
Clausena anisata flowering in October.
Ecology Grows between
1,500 and 2,300 m
altitude in forests particularly along forest edges and in clearings where rainfall exceeds 750 mm per
annum. I t is often a pioneer plant in secondary bushland on upland sites. Also found at higher altitudes
in West Africa and
throughout
tropical
Africa.
Propagation The plant
can be grown from seed
or cuttings.
: Young fruits
forming on a bush at
Shilanga
Right
Uses
In
Umalila
honeybees are reported
to visit the flowers. The
plant is known as an
important bee forage
from November to May
in Ethiopia, where both
nectar and pollen are
collected. The plant is sometimes hung in doorways and burnt as a mosquito repellent. I n East Africa
the wood is burnt to smoke fish. The stems are cut for walking sticks. Twigs are commonly used for
cleaning teeth or as chewsticks. There are numerous medicinal uses for the leaves. I n Tanzania the leaf
sap is rubbed on the body of a child suffering from malaria. Bruised leaves are given to women in
labour. The roots are aromatic and reported to relieve wind. They are also used to expel roundworms.
The wood is used for firewood. The fruits are reported to be edible.
References De Wildeman 1934, FZ 1963, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Burkill 1997, Burrows & Willis 2005, Lovett
et al. 2006
57
Clematopsis villosa
(Ranunculaceae)
Synonym C. scabiosifolia, Clematis kirkii
Common names I kuwi ? (Malila), shock-headed Peter
Description
The plant
grows from a rhizome and
may form a bush up to
1.5 m tall with erect or
spreading, hairy stems.
Leaves are opposite, up to
12 cm long, also softly
hairy and very variable in
shape.
The
drooping
flowers are scented, up to
7 cm across, and hairy on
their outer surface. The
seeds have a tuft of grey
hairs at their apex.
Ecology
The
plant
photographed
was
growing in grassland at
the roadside. I t also
occurs at medium to high
altitudes in woodland and
wooded
grassland.
It
appears in grassland after
fire in northern Nigeria
and
Cameroon.
Also
present in East, Central
and South Africa.
Uses
I n Zambia the
flowers are crushed and
sniffed to relieve flu and
headaches. The leaf pulp
is inhaled for headaches.
I n Zimbabwe the root
powder is sniffed for
headaches. I n Burundi
smoke from the burning
roots is inhaled to calm
the insane and to treat coughing. A root infusion is drunk to stimulate the appetite, as a tonic and to
treat female infertility. Leaf pulp is applied to treat toothache. I n Sudan the root, after boiling in water,
is used to dress sores. The plant is used together with Hermannia betonicaefolia to treat chest
complaints in South Africa.
References Watt & Breyer-Branwijk 1962, Wild et al 1972, Cribb & Leedal 1983, Burkill 1997,
Neuwinger 2000, Hyde & Wurston 2002 – 6
58
Cleome gynandra
(Capparidaceae)
Synonym C. pentaphylla, Gynandropsis gynandra, G. pentaphylla
Common
names
mgagani,
mwangani
whiskers, spider plant
Umuzimu (Malila),
(Swahili),
cat's
Description An erect annual herb up to
1.5 m tall. Leaves are alternate, compound
with 3 – 7 leaflets, each 2 – 10 cm long
and 1 – 4 cm wide. Flower heads can be up
to 30 cm long. Flowers are white or tinged
with purple. Fruit is a green or yellow
capsule up to 12 cm long. Vegetative
growth stops rapidly as soon as flowering
starts. Farmers often remove flowers to
prevent this.
Ecology
A common weed, especially
around villages. I t can grow up to an
altitude of 2,400 m. throughout the tropics,
though is less common at high altitudes.
Requires full sun and prefers a fertile soil,
high in organic matter. I t is tolerant to
drought.
Propagation Collect seed from late
flowering, tall, green stemmed plants with many large leaves. Seeds are best stored for 6 – 12 months
to break dormancy prior to sowing. Broadcast seed on well cultivated land in pure stands or mixed with
Brassica species, Solanum nigrum or Corchorus olitorius and tridens.
Management. After sowing, plants should be thinned out to a spacing of 25 – 30 cm each way.
Topping, cutting back to the ground and removing the flowers as soon as they appear are practices that
increase leaf production. Green stemmed varieties tend to regenerate better than those with purple
stems. The leaves are picked individually or leafy branches are harvested. Whole plants may also be
uprooted.
Uses Leaves, often with the flowers, are widely used as a vegetable, eaten cooked or fresh as a
spinach or in soup. By themselves the leaves are bitter. They are therefore best boiled, butter added
and eaten with ugali made from finger millet. The
leaves may also be dried for later use. To remove
the bitterness the leaves are allowed to wither, and
then are soaked in milk overnight or in several
changes of water. Young pods are also eaten.
Leaves are rich in calcium and iron. The plant is
used widely as a counter irritant to relieve local
pain, being rubbed on the part affected or applied
as a poultice. The plant is sometimes cultivated for
its edible seed oil. Bees collect pollen and nectar
and, though flowering may occur all year round, it
occurs mostly after the rains. The plants, and
especially the seeds, have insecticidal properties
and are used against ticks on livestock. The glands
on the stem and leaves repel insects. I ntercropping cabbages with rows of Cleome gynanda can reduce
diamond back moth larva ( Plutella xylostella) damage to the former.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, FTEA 1964, Terra 1966, Goode 1974, Williamson 1975,
Kokwaro 1976, Burkill 1985, Dupriez & De Leener 1989, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Chweya & Mnzava 1997,
Schippers & Budd 1997, Maundu et al. 1999, Schippers 2002, Mnzava & Chigumira 2004
59
Clerodendrum johnstonii
(Verbenaceae)
Common names Nanjoha
Description The plant grows either as a shrub which may reach a height of 1.5 m or as a creeper, up
to 20 m long. The bases of the leaf stalks are hooked and spiny, and used to scramble up into the tree
canopy. Leaves are opposite or in threes, 6.5 – 19 cm long and 3.5 – 14 cm wide, and may have a
rounded base, with the tip being shortly pointed. The lower surface of the leaves has a dense mat of
hairs. The scented flowers are white and borne in many flowered terminal heads. The fruit is orange to
black, about 1 cm long but often having galls.
Ecology The shrub photographed above was growing in a pine/ eucalyptus plantation near Maendeleo.
I t grows at the edges of moist forests and in secondary forest, sometimes being common. Also present
in eastern D.R. Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, and north eastern
Zambia.
Propagation Can be grown from cuttings.
Uses Bees are reported to visit the flowers in Umalila.
Clerodendrum species are known to be important bee forage
plants in Africa. Other species, C. cordifolium and C. myricoides
are visited by bees in Ethiopia. The plant is used to treat fever,
coughs as an expectorant and for stomach problems in East
Africa, Rwanda and South Africa. Juice from pounded or
chewed fresh leaves is taken for abdominal pains or stomach
problems in East Africa. A root decoction is drunk for painful
periods in Kenya. I n Burundi the leaf sap is drunk as an emetic
and to relieve painful periods. Leaf decoction is drunk for rectal
prolapse and as tonic for pregnant women. The stems are used
as stakes by farmers in Kenya.
References Kokwaro 1976, FTEA 1992, Beentje 1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Hepburn & Radloff 1998,
Neuwinger 2000, White et al. 2001
60
Clutia abyssinica
(Euphorbiaceae)
Synonym C. pedicellaris, C. richardiana
Common names Smooth fruited Clutia
Clutia abyssinica with fruit growing in a hedge near Sasyaka in April
Description Usually a shrub 1 to 2 m high but it can grow to 6 m. Branches are brittle and the bark is
greenish to pale-brown. Leaves are 3 – 11 cm long and 1.3 – 3.5 cm wide, dotted with glands, light
green becoming red to golden. Leaf stalk slender, up to 2.5 cm long. Flowers very small, greenish to
white. Male flowers in tight clusters along young branches. Female flowers are solitary, occasionally
among the male flowers. Fruit is a capsule 4 to 5 mm in diameter.
Ecology Found in dry forest, forest remnants, secondary bush and wooded grassland and in bush on
rocky hillsides. Grows from Zimbabwe northwards to Ethiopia at altitudes between 700 – 2,300 m.
Uses I n East Africa the roots are boiled in soup and drunk to treat headaches, malaria and stomachache. Leaves are boiled and the vapour used to treat malaria. An extract from the root is drunk for
influenza, indigestion and, with milk to ease liver pains. I n Tanzania women smoke the wood during
menstruation. I n South Africa the roots are used as a laxative, to expel intestinal worms and to treat fits
in children. They are used to flavour food after boiling by the Maasai and Kipsigis. Bees are reported to
visit the flowers of some Clutia species.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Kokwaro 1976, Coates Palgrave 1983, Peters et al. 1992,
Beentje 1994, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, Neuwinger 2000, Burrows & Willis 2005
61
Coffea mufindiensis
(Rubiaceae)
Common names Kahawa mwitu (Swahili), wild coffee
Description An evergreen shrub or small tree, up to 4.5 m tall. Leaves are oval, 2 – 6 cm long and 0.8
– 3 cm wide, crowded together, with crinkly or wavy edges. Stipules are present and are 2 – 7 mm
long, triangular with a fine point. One or two white flowers are produced in the leaf axils. Fruits are
orange – red oval berries up to 1 cm long.
Coffea mufindiensis in I tare forest in November
Ecology An undershrub growing in moist mountain forests from 1,600 to 2,100 m in central eastern
and southern highlands. Also present in Malawi, NE Zambia, Mozambique and Zimbabwe.
Propagation Can be grown from seed.
Uses I n Tanzania the sweet tasting berries are collected and eaten raw mostly by children. Seeds are
roasted, ground and used as a coffee substitute. The wood is used for poles, firewood, pegs and tool
handles. The tree is suitable for growing for shade, as a hedge and as an ornamental shrub. Three
other species are present in moist Tanzanian forests and two of them are reported as bee forage.
Remarks The plant has potential for selection and improvement.
References FTEA 1988, White et al. 2001, Ruffo et al. 2002, Burrows & Willis 2005, Lovett et al. 2006
62
Colocasia esculenta
(Araceae)
Common names Amasimbi (Malila), magimbi (Swahili), taro
Description
A perennial
herb growing from 1 - 2 m
high from a large corm. The
latter may be up to 30 cm
long and 15 cm. in diameter.
Leaf stalks are not attached
at the leaf margin but inside,
in contrast to Xanthosoma
saggitifolia.
Ecology Taro is occasionally
planted in gardens close to
homes in Umalila. I t is more
usually grown in hot, humid
conditions. Best results are
from deep, fertile, friable
loam soils with a high water
table and adequate organic
matter. Taro is fairly tolerant
to shade. Eddoe types are
more resistant to drought
and cold conditions than
Dasheen types.
Propagation
Plant
the
upper tip of the corm with
the lower 15 - 25 cm of the
stalk attached. Plant at the
start of the rain season.
Management
Weeding is
most important. Growth time
to harvest is 8 - 10 months.
The corms are ready for
harvest when the leaves turn
yellow and begin to wither.
Uses The leaves are used as a vegetable and the corms are eaten in Umalila. The soft, white corms are
eaten throughout the tropics. They are rich in starch and can be eaten after removing the sharp
crystals. To do this the corms are boiled, baked, roasted or fried in oil. The starch is easily digested, but
if large quantities of the corm are eaten, goitre can result. Excessive consumption is also reported to
increase the possibility of contracting leprosy. However eating the corm lowers the incidence of tooth
decay.
Remarks Yields of between 4 and 10 tons/ ha. are normal but, by selecting high yielding planting
material and thorough weeding, better yields can be obtained.
References Purseglove 1968, Acland 1971, Kay 1973, Leakey & Wills 1977, Safo Kantanka 2004
63
Crassocephalum vitellinum
(Asteraceae)
Synonmes Gynura vitellana, G. aurantiaca
Common names I nzumba
Description A trailing annual or perennial herb, growing from 30 to 150 cm tall. Leaves are stalkless
and 3 – 12.5 cm long and 1.5 – 7 cm wide. The solitary orange yellow flower heads are 1.8 cm across
on long stalks. Flowers are produced throughout the year but mainly after the rains.
Ecology Common
in grassy clearings, upland forest and
woodland, and occasionally in swamps. Altitude range is 1,050 –
2,550 m. Also found in Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, D. R. Congo,
Nigeria and Cameroon.
Uses The leaves are used to treat stomach-ache in Umalila. Bees
frequently
collect
pollen
and
nectar
from
the
flowers.
Crassocephalum species flower over long periods and this is
helpful for building up the strength of bee colonies. The plant is
known as a good honey source in Ethiopia. The leaves of this
species and of C. bojeri and C. bumbens are eaten in R.D. Congo.
The plant is browsed by sheep and goats in Kenya. The flower
head is sometimes used as a brush to remove objects from the
eye. Elsewhere the plant is used medicinally as a remedy for
elephantiasis, anemia, rectal prolapse and gonorrhea.
Papilio echeroides, the White Banded Swallowtail,
collecting nectar from a flower in June
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Kokwaro 1976, Burkill 1985, Blundell 1987, Konda et al.
1992, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Neuwinger 2000, Burrows & Willis 2005
64
Crotalaria cleomifolia
(Fabaceae)
Common names I sekeseke
Description A shrubby, much branched perennial, 1 - 4 m tall. Leaves are composed of 3 - 5 leaflets
each 5 – 11 cm long. Flower heads are 11 - 28 cm long. Flowers usually have reddish-brown veins. Fruit
pods are 4 – 5 cm long containing 30 - 40 seeds.
Ecology Grows on the margins and in clearings of upland rain-forest, upland evergreen bushland and
grassland, also persisting on roadsides and cultivated ground. Altitude range 1,150 – 2.550 m. Locally
common and widespread in tropical Africa.
Propagation
Suggested
propagation by seed or semi
ripe cuttings.
Uses Bees were seen visiting
this plant in June. The leaves
of Crotalaria natalitia are
used as a vegetable in
Umalila.
They
are
also
chewed and spat onto burns
or dried and then crushed
and
applied
to
burns.
Crotalaria
species
have
potential as green manure
crops. Children use the dried
seed-pods as rattles, hence
the local name.
Remarks There are over
200 species of Crotalaria in
East Africa. Some species are
responsible for producing
serious intoxication in cattle and donkeys. Some are however used medicinally and others are regarded
as potential fodder crops.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, FTEA 1971, Kokwaro 1976, NAS 1979, Blundell 1987,
Brickell 1994, Burrow & Willis 2005
65
Crotalaria natalitia
(Fabaceae)
Common name I thumba (Malila), marejea (Sw.), rattlepod
Description A perennial woody herb or small shrub with one to several thin upright stems from 1 - 2.6
m tall. Leaves are crowded on short lateral shoots, and made up of tufts of 3 – 5 leaflets. Leaflets are
up to 4.2 cm long and hairy on the underside. The yellow flowers turn red in a terminal flower head, up
to 22 cm long. Fruit is a cylindrical mottled dark-green and blue-black pod 3.5 - 4.5 cm long, containing
25 - 40 seeds.
Ecology Found on the
margins of upland rain
forest, in bushland, wooded
or
open
grassland,
deciduous woodland and
riverine forest, also present
on roadsides and cultivated
ground. Altitude range 0 –
3,000 m. Also occurs in the
plateau regions of Angola,
southern Africa and in
Burundi and eastern D.R.
Congo.
Propagation
Suggested
propagation is by seed or
semi-ripe cuttings.
Uses I n Umalila the tender
leaves are eaten as a
vegetable.
Elsewhere
in
Tanzania
the
pounded
leaves are also used and
may be dried for later use.
The leaves are sometimes
Crotalaria natalitia growing in forest
sold in markets. People add
groundnuts and coconut
milk to make the leaves more palatable. I n Malawi leaves are cooked with potash giving a mucilaginous
product. I n Tanzania the plant is also used as a green manure and an ornamental plant. The bark from
fresh roots is chewed, and the juice swallowed as a treatment for boils. Bees were seen to be active on
this plant in Umalila in June.
Remarks Several Crotalaria species are edible but some are known to be poisonous both to man and
livestock. Some species are used medicinally .
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, FTEA 1971, Brickell 1994, Bosch 2004, Burrows & Willis
2005
Crotalaria subcapitata, a low
growing
creeper,
found
in
grassland, is visited by bees in
May.
66
Cucurbita ficifolia
(Cucurbitaceae)
Synonym C.
Pepo ficifolia
melanosperma,
Common names Dabwidi (fruit),
kawiru (leaves) (Malila), mboga
ya kimasaai or mboga ya mboga
(Swahili), fig leaf gourd, Malabar
gourd
Description
A
short-lived
perennial vine up to 30 m long,
climbing with long branched
tendrils. The tap root may be 2 m
long. The stem forms numerous
runners which may root at the
nodes. Leaves are alternate, and
similar to fig leaves, 18 – 25 cm
in diameter. Flowers are yellow to
pale orange up to 7.5 cm in
diameter. The fruit is large, round or cylindrical, 15 – 50 cm
long, green with white stripes and lighter markings, having
a smooth, hard skin. The flesh is white, coarse and tough,
fibrous and rather dry with many black to pale buff
coloured seeds 1.5 – 2 cm long.
Ecology The plant grows best in fertile well drained soils at
altitudes over 1,000 m. Originally from the highlands of
South America. I t occurs in the highlands of Ethiopia and
East Africa and is occasionally grown in Angola.
Propagation By seed or vegetatively by using plants
rooted at the nodes. Seeds germinate after 5 – 7 days.
They may also germinate naturally in cultivated land.
Management Plants are normally grown over a trellis or
fence in Umalila. The plant is known to be strongly
resistant to pests and diseases. Bees are mainly responsible
for pollination. Leaves can be harvested from 2 months
after planting and picking can continue for a further 4
months.
Uses I n Umalila the young leaves and stalks are
stripped of the outer fibre then coarsely chopped and
cooked as a vegetable. The leaves and fruit are also
fed to pigs. The seeds are pounded, sieved and added
to vegetables to provide cooking fat. Elsewhere in
Tanzania the leaves are prepared in a mixture with
maize, pulses, green bananas or I rish potatoes. I n
Europe the plant is grown for its ornamental fruits.
The plant is also used as a rootstock for growing
cucumbers in Europe because of its tolerance to cold
and its resistance to soil borne diseases.
References Maundu et al. 1999, Grubben 2004
Left : Leaves and fruit being carried home near
Maendeleo
67
Cucurbita maxima
(Cucurbitaceae)
Common names I liungu (fruit), ipwiza (leaves) (Malila), mtango (Swahili), winter squash, pumpkin.
Description An annual herb, usually trailing on the ground, but occasionally growing as a bush. Some
cultivars produce very large fruits. Male or female flowers occur in a ratio of about 20:1 and open for
one day only, often early in the morning. Both produce nectar. Bees are the main pollinators and the
number and weight of the fruits increase with the amount of pollen deposited on the stigmas. The fruits
are orange, green or grey, smooth or ribbed, round or oval. Seeds are large and plump, white or brown.
3 - 6 fruits are produced per plant with fruits weighing from 2 - 5 kg.
Ecology Grown throughout Africa. I n Umalila the crop is planted with maize and beans before the rains
start. The plant requires full sunlight, a fairly high temperature, above 25 - 27°C, and fairly low
humidity. Dry periods encourage growth. I t can be grown up to an altitude of 2,000 m and prefers soils
with organic matter. The plant also grows well in soils where ashes have been thrown or where burning
has taken place.
Propagation Normally 3 - 10 seeds are sown per site, spaced 2 m x 2 m, and then thinned out to 1 - 3
plants. Plant seed 2 – 4 cm deep.
Management Harvest the fruits when the skin starts to harden. When collecting the leaves it is
recommended that the third and fourth leaves from the tip are harvested.
Uses The leaves and fruit are eaten in Umalila. The seeds are also pounded, sieved and added to
vegetables to provide cooking fat. The flowers are sometimes used as a vegetable in Africa. I n Malawi
the leaves are dried for later use. Fruit flesh is usually boiled and eaten in pieces or put into stews and
soups. I n northern Ghana the flesh is sliced and dried for storage. Fruits with hard skin can be stored
for later use and will keep well for a long time. The dried fruit shell can be used for making bowls. Many
species of Cucurbitaceae are attractive to honey bees.
References Grubben 1977, Tindall 1983, Burkill 1985, Dupriez & De Leener 1989, Fichtl & Adi 1994,
Robinson & Decker-Walters 1997, Jones 1999, Chigumira Ngwerume & Grubben 2004
68
Cupressus lusitanica
(Cupressaceae)
Common names Mkambo kambo, mtarakwa (Swahili), cypress
Description A fast growing
evergreen tree, normally
conical in shape, up to 35 m
high. I t has a straight trunk.
The bark is red brown with
vertical grooves. Leaves are
very small in 4 ranks, with
spreading pointed tips. Male
cones are produced at the
ends of
branches and
produce large amounts of
yellow pollen. Female cones,
1.5 cm in diameter, ripen
after two years. Trees
commence
bearing
fruit
after 6 – 9 years.
Ecology
Grows
in
seasonally
moist
to
permanently moist areas
having a dry season of no
more than 2 – 3 months.
Altitude range 1,000 – 4,000
m. The tree prefers a deep,
moist, well-drained, neutral
to slightly acid loam. This
species
represents
over
40% of planted trees in
Tanzania.
Propagation
For rapid,
even
germination
seed
should be kept in damp
sand for 30 days before
sowing. Seed can then be
sown in seed beds and the
bare rooted seedlings can
be transplanted into the
field. Alternatively seed can
be planted in containers.
Wild seedlings can also be
used for planting out. Seed can be stored for up to 6 months.
Management Plant out seedlings at 2 – 3 x 2 – 3 m spacing. Pruning to ensure knot-free timber
should commence when trees are 3 years old and be carried out again at 6, 9 and 13 years. Growth is
fast on good sites. Weeding is important during early growth. The tree can be grown as a hedge.
Uses Grown for poles which are ready after 10 years or for timber which can be cut after 20 years.
Timber can be used for furniture and firewood.
Remarks The cypress aphid was a major pest which limited the planting of this tree. However in Kenya
a parasitic wasp, Pauesia juniperorum, has been shown to be an effective control agent.
References Mbuya et al. 1994, I CRAF 1998
69
Cussonia spicata
(Araliaceae)
Common names I pombo (Malila), pombo (Nyakyusa), umbrella tree, cabbage tree.
Description An evergreen tree, up
to 20 m tall, with long bare branches.
The compound leaves are crowded at
the ends of the branches and are
composed of 6 – 12 leaflets. From 5
to 18 flowering spikes, each 6 – 14
cm long, are borne together at the
ends of long stalks which protrude
beyond the foliage of the tree.
Flowers are greenish-white. Fruits are
up to 1.2 cm long. The tree can grow
up to 1 m per year.
Ecology
Common in forests in
Umalila. Normally found on dry
upland forest edges, riverine forest,
grouped tree grassland and wet
upland forest. A pioneer tree growing
between altitudes of 1,450 and 2,500
m. Distribution is from Sudan to the
Western Cape in South Africa. The
tree is drought resistant but does not
like cold winds. I t may also not be
able to withstand frost.
Propagation Fresh seed germinates
An isolated tree left in crop land near Sasyaka.
easily when sown in seedling trays
filled with a mixture of river sand and
compost (1:1). Germination takes
from 15 - 30 days. Most seeds
germinate in the third week. I t can
also be grown from long cuttings
planted in a shady area, but this method is not always successful.
Uses The flowers are an important honey source in
Umalila. Bees were seen visiting in July. Young trees
are sometimes uprooted and the roots eaten in
Umalila. The large succulent root is also eaten in
times of scarcity in South Africa and is used to treat
malaria. The bark is used as a fish poison. I n
Tanzania the leaves are used to treat indigestion
and the roots as an emetic and to treat fever,
venereal disease and uterine pain. The bark is used
as a malarial remedy in Zimbabwe. The powdered
wood is a constituent of snuff in South Africa. The
wood is whitish, light, soft and coarse and very
perishable but used to make mole traps by the
Kikuyu in Kenya. Wooden blocks are used as a
substitute for brake blocks. The fruits are edible.
The leaves are said to provide valuable fodder for
stock. The tree is sometimes used for shade.
Remarks A related
species C.
important honey source in Ethiopia.
holstii is an
Maturing fruit
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Williamson 1975, Kokwaro 1976, Coates Palgrave 1983,
Beentje 1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Venter & Venter 1996, Neuwinger 2000, Hankey & Sisulu 2004, Lovett
et al. 2006
70
Cyathula uncinulata
(Amaranthaceae)
Common names I mbunya (Malila – the name is
given to plants which stick to clothing).
Description An erect
and bushy, or more
commonly, a straggling to climbing perennial
herb, 75 cm to 3 m long. Leaves are variable in
size and shape, often hairy on both surfaces. I ts
trailing habit and grey-silver flower heads make it
easy to identify.
Ecology Grows profusely along the forest edge
around I lembo. Found in extremely different
habitats from moist forest, riverside vegetation,
open bush-land and rocky places. Altitude range
1,290 – 2,880 m.
Uses Bees were active on this plant collecting
both nectar and pollen in June. The leaves are
eaten by livestock. The plant is reported locally to
improve soil fertility. Leaves are dipped in hot
water and applied to the skin to draw out thorns.
They are also used as toilet paper. I n Tanzania a
root decoction is drunk as an emetic and to treat
female sterility and the fruits are eaten to ease
abdominal pain. Elsewhere a paste made from the
powdered leaves mixed in Vaseline, is used to
treat eczema. A decoction of the root is used as
an emetic in Kenya. The plant is also used
medicinally in Burundi. Beekepers say that when
livestock return home with the fruits sticking to their coats it is time to harvest honey.
References Kokwaro 1976, FTEA 1985, Blundell 1987, Neuwinger 2000
Rinaga Jangi carrying Cyperus grass (Amanzila) stems for making mats (I shiriri)
71
Cyphomandra betacea
(Solanaceae)
Synonyms C. crassicaulis
Common names I pana (Kimalila), mgogwe (Swahili), tree tomato, tomatillo.
Description
An evergreen semi-woody
shrub or small tree, with characteristic
umbrella like branching habit, from 2 to 3 m
tall. Young stems have shiny bark, older
stems bear leaf scar markings. Leaves are
alternate, large and heart shaped, 15 – 30
cm long and 10 – 20 cm wide. They have
soft hairs and droop in the heat. Flowers are
fragrant and borne in clusters on older
stems. Each floret is 5 lobed, with white to
pink petals and a dark stripe. The egg
shaped, smooth skinned fruit, grows 4 to 6
cm long and is at first greenish-purple but
becomes shiny orange-red to purple as it
ripens. Fruits are produced in great
abundance in hanging clusters on long stalks
throughout the year. The plant is shallow
rooted.
Ecology Native to the forests of the Andes.
The plant grows in the highland tropics from
1,200 m upwards in frost free areas. At low
elevations the plants do not flower. Plants
require full sun, with deep, fertile, well
drained soils. Flavour develops best where
warm sunny days are followed by cool nights. Suitable for growing with other crops, as it does not
shade out shorter plants.
Propagation The plant is usually grown from seed but can also be grown from stem cuttings. Seed can
be stored without problem. Transplant seedlings when 30 cm high.
Management The tree is quick growing and
starts to bear fruit after about 18 months.
However, as it usually only lives for 3 - 4 years,
it
needs
to
be
replaced
frequently.
Alternatively, after 3 years, the tree can be cut
down to soil level and one good shoot selected
to produce another stem.
Uses The slightly acid, succulent fruits are
usually eaten uncooked but can also be
prepared like tomatoes, sliced, fried and served
as a sauce with the staple food. The juice may
be squeezed out to make a refreshing drink.
Sugar can be added. Fruits are best picked and
eaten direct from the tree. They have a high
vitamin content. Levels of free amino acids,
potassium and phosphorus are also high compared with other fruits.
Remarks The fruits will keep for 3 - 4 weeks if kept cool.
References Uphof 1968, Dupriez & De Leener 1989, Macmillan 1991, I CRAF 1998, Katende et al. 1999,
Katende et al. 2000
72
Dalbergia lactea
(Fabaceae)
Common names Mulembo, ishuwa (Malila)
Description A small tree or climbing shrub, which may be up to 25 m long, with some coiled branches.
Leaves are made up of 6 – 10 leaflets which are elliptic, have a rounded base and apex and are 4 – 9
cm long and 2 – 5.5 cm wide. Flowers are mauve white to purple in large clusters. Fruit pods are 10 –
17 cm long and 3 – 4.5 cm, leathery, flat and hairless and contain a single seed.
Dalbergia lactea flowering in October near Shilanga
Ecology Widespread in mountain and mid-altitude rain forest up to 2,220 m. Also present in the
highlands of Cameroon, south east Nigeria, eastern D.R. Congo and from Ethiopia to Zimbawe and
Mozambique.
Propagation D. nitidula can be grown from seed or suckers.
Uses The flowers are visited by bees in Umalila. D. nitidula is reported as a pollen source in I ringa
district. Dalbergia species are known as important bee forage plants in other parts of Africa. The leaves
and roots are used medicinally to treat abdominal pains. The roots are applied externally to treat
rheumatism or boiled up and the liquid used to bathe in for skin diseases. A root decoction is drunk to
expel roundworms and, together with Senna petersiana, is taken to heal abscesses. The leaves are
pounded and used to treat constipation in cattle. I n Kenya the bark fibres are used for weaving and to
make rope.
References Kokwaro 1976, Beentje 1994, Burkill 1995, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, Kihwele et al. 2001,
White et al. 2001, Burrows & Willis 2005, Latham 2005
73
Desmodium intortum
(Fabaceae)
Synonym D. aparine
Common names I zanji (Malila), green leaf desmodium, Kuru vine.
Desmodium intortum in flower in May near I lembo
Description A perennial, low growing herb with erect, branched reddish-brown stems. Leaves are
trifoliate with leaflets 2 – 7 cm long and 1.5 – 5 cm wide, usually brown or red-speckled on the upper
surface. The flowers are numerous and the plant flowers over a long period. Seed production is
increased by bees.
Ecology Fairly common in grassland in Umalila. Native to central America but now spread widely in the
tropics. I t requires a long warm growing season and withstands hot weather better than D. uncinatum .
I t tolerates moderately low temperatures. The plant prefers a well distributed rainfall of over 875 mm
per year. I t is less drought resistant than Stylosanthes guianensis in Uganda and has little foliage in the
dry season. I t will survive temporary water-logging but prefers well drained sites. The plant requires an
alkaline more or less neutral soil with a pH of 5.0 or more.
Propagation Seed should be broadcast in a well prepared seed-bed. Stem cuttings can also be used
for propagation.
Uses Bees were seen collecting pollen and nectar. A valuable fodder legume both grazed and made into
hay. I t is an excellent source of protein, riboflavin and vitamin A for livestock. I t can be grown with
various grasses.
References Bogdan 1977, Skerman 1977, Jones 1999
74
Desmodium repandum
(Fabaceae)
Common names Asampya
Description
A
loosely
branched perennial herb or
slender shrub growing up to
1 m tall. Leaves are
composed of three thin
leaflets covered with fine
hairs. Flowers pink to bright
red, arranged in terminal or
open panicles. The sticky
fruits have 5 segments
which break up into oneseeded sections and attach
themselves to fur
and
clothing.
Ecology
The
plant
is
common in shade, on the
forest floor or at edges of
forests, in clearings and
along stream banks and
paths. I t grows throughout
tropical and subtropical East
Africa between 1,000 and
3,300 m. I t is also found in
Madagascar, I ndia and Malaysia.
Uses The plant is used to treat mental disorder in Umalila. I n Shambaa, northern Tanzania the root is
used to treat large sores and a spoonful of juice is given to babies for abdominal pain. Elsewhere the
plant is used to treat anorexia, gastric ulcers, liver inflammation, cardiac problems, sciatic pain,
dehydration, diarrhoea, weakness, elephantiasis and wounds. Bees are reported to collect pollen and
nectar from the flowers.
References Kokwaro 1976, Blundell 1987, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, Neuwinger
2000, Burrows & Willis 2005
Dickson Mwahalende with young Hagenia abyssinica (I liogoti) trees. He also has a
nursery of Syzygium cordatum (I fwomi). I ndigenous trees have a wider range of
uses and are better adapted to local conditions than many imported species.
75
Diospyros w hyteana
(Ebenaceae)
Common names I fita (Malila), bladder nut
Description An evergreen shrub or small tree up
to 13 m in height, branching low down. Bark is
brown and rough. Young shoots are red. Leaves
are 2 – 8 cm long and 1 – 3 cm wide, alternate
and the margins are fringed with long hairs.
Flowers are white or cream to pale orange,
fragrant, 5 to 10 mm long, arising from the leaf
axils. Flowering occurs from August to October.
Male and female flowers are on different trees.
The red fruits are distinctive being spherical, up to
2 cm in diameter, and enclosed in a papery calyx.
Ecology Occurs in scrub or forest, on mountain
slopes and in rocky places from Ethiopia to the
Western Cape in South Africa. The shrub can
survive long dry periods. I t is most common in
high rainfall areas at high altitudes.
Propagation Collect fruit from the tree and dry
in the shade. Remove the seeds and soak them in
hot water. Leave in water overnight before
planting. Alternatively seed can be scratched
before planting. Germination takes 3 - 5 weeks
and is rather erratic. Transplant seedlings at the
two-leaf stage. Plants grow quite rapidly.
Uses Bees were seen gathering nectar in October
near Shilanga. Leaves are browsed by livestock.
The fruit is edible but has a bitter-sweet taste,
and is therefore not popular, but the seeds can be
roasted and ground to make a good coffee
substitute. The wood is
whitish with brown to
purple stripes, dense, even
grained and strong. I t is
used for making furniture
and tool handles. The bark
is used to ease painful
periods in South Africa and
the leaf or root extract is
rubbed on to treat a
burning skin rash. The
shrub can be grown as a
hedge plant. A related
species, D. mespeliformis,
African ebony, is known to
be a very valuable bee
forage,
particularly
for
nectar, at lower altitudes in
West, East and southern
Africa and in Ethiopia.
References Wild et al. 1972, Coates Palgrave 1983, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Mbuya et al. 1994, Venter &
Venter 1996, Kihwele et al. 2001, Viljoen 2002, Burrows & Willis 2005, Lovett et al. 2006
76
Dissotis melleri
(Melastomataceae)
Synonym D. whytei
Common names I zolokwale, bumburankwale, nzumbakwale
Description A shrub or small tree up to 6 m tall. Leaves are 4.5 – 16 cm long. The purple flowers are
distinctive and produced after the leaves fall.
Dissotis melleri in flower near Yalenga in October
Ecology Occurs in open bushland and at the edges of
forests. Also found in exposed places, rocky crevices and
mountain slopes in higher grassland. Present in
Mozambique, Malawi and Zambia.
Uses Reported to be visited by bees. Dissotis species are
known to be useful bee forage plants elsewhere in Africa.
A related species D. canescens is visited occasionally for
pollen in Ethiopia. The leaves, flowers and roots of some
species are eaten.
References Peters et al. 1992, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Malaisse
1997, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, White et al. 2001, Burrows
& Willis 2005
77
Dodonaea viscosa
(Sapindaceae)
Synonym D. angustifolia
Common names I nzigula (Malila), mkaa-pwani (Swahili), Sand olive.
Description A thin stemmed, fast growing,
hardy shrub, up to 10 m high. Young leaves
are light green, shiny and sticky. Mature
leaves are thin, erect and up to 10 cm long.
The flowers are small and the sexes are
separate. The fruits are distinctive, 2 cm
long, bearing 3 greenish to red wings which
turn brown.
Ecology Grows from sea level to 2,800 m
but is most common on rocky soils and in
dry mountain forests in Tanzania. Found
throughout Africa from Sierra Leone to
Ethiopia and in South Africa.
Propagation
Regenerates rapidly after
bush fires but can also be planted direct
using seed. Wild seedlings can also be used
for planting. Seed can be stored for up to a
year.
Dodonaea viscosa growing in grassland at I nyala.
Uses Commonly cut for firewood and charcoal. The
shrub provides poles and tool handles and is a useful
plant for soil conservation measures, for wind breaks
and living fences. I t is an important bee plant in drier
areas, producing good supplies of pollen and some
nectar
and
stimulating
brood
rearing
and
strengthening
colonies.
Twigs are used
as
toothbrushes and the lower stem and swollen root are
used as knob-kerries (rungu) in Umalila. I n South
Africa it is an important medicinal plant. A decoction
of the boiled fresh leaves and tips of the twigs is
drunk to treat colds, influenza, stomach troubles,
arthritis and measles and used as a gargle for sore
throats.
Ripening fruits
Remarks This species is not browsed by livestock which makes it easy to establish. I t can be planted to
form a good living fence for dry areas. Though susceptible to fire, it regenerates rapidly after burning
and is especially useful for reclaiming poor land.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Mbuya et al. 1994, van Wyk et al. 1997,
I CRAF 1998, Burrows & Willis 2005, Lovett et al. 2006
78
Dombeya burgessiae
(Sterculiaceae)
Synonym D. dawei
Common names I nkunya
Description A shrub or tree 1 - 6 m high. The leaves, 4 – 17 cm long and 3 – 13 cm wide, are covered
with short soft hairs on both sides. Flowers are white or pink, in bunches with long stalks. The petals
are 14 - 24 mm long. The dead flowers remain attached to the branches for some time. Fruits are
round, about 1 cm in diameter, and very hairy.
Ecology Grows from 1,200 –
3,000 m in open forest, on
forest margins, beside rivers, on
rocky sites or in wooded
grassland. Widespread in drier
upland forest areas. The tree
grows well in light shade.
Propagation
Collect
dried
flower heads and extract seed.
Sow in a well-drained seedbed.
Germination is good and the
seedlings emerge after 3 weeks.
Use fresh seed as viability
declines after 3 months.
Management The tree is fast
growing and can probably be
coppiced.
Flower head in a forest near I nyala
Uses An important bee forage
plant in Umalila. Dombeya
species produce exceptionally
good honey with fine crystallization. Elsewhere in Tanzania a leaf decoction is drunk to treat malaria and
leaf pulp is applied to leprosy sores. I n South Africa the bark is used to make baskets and in Kenya the
bark fibre is used to make rope; the wood is used for bows and building poles; twigs are used as firesticks. Various parts are used to make a cough medicine. I n Uganda the roots are used to treat stomach
pains.
References Smith 1956, Watt & BreyerBrandwijk 1962, Kokwaro 1976, Coates
Palgrave 1983, Blundell 1987, Beentje 1994,
Johannsmeier & Allsopp 1995, Mbuya et al.
1994, Neuwinger 2000, Hankey 2001
A clay jar set in a tree to provide water next
to a hive at Sasyaka
79
Dombeya rotundifolia
(Sterculiaceae)
Common names I tanji (Malila), wild pear
Description A fast growing deciduous
tree up to 4 - 5 m tall, sometimes reaching
8 m. Bark is dark brown and deeply
furrowed. Leaves oval to almost circular, 6
- 18 cm across, rough, often hairy below,
edges unevenly toothed and stalked. The
leaves dry up very crisp and hard. The
whitish-pink flowers are borne in multiflowered heads and are sweet scented. I t
is an attractive tree when in flower. Fruits
are small, round, hairy capsules.
Ecology Single trees are often left in
cropland. I t occurs over a wide range of
altitudes, from Ethiopia to KwaZulu - Natal
in South Africa, usually in wooded and
open grassland. Grows best between
altitudes of 1,400 and 2,200 m, often near
termite mounds. I t tolerates some frost
and drought. The tree is fire resistant.
Propagation Seed germination is good
and seedlings emerge after 3 weeks. Use
fresh seed as viability declines after 3
months. Sow seed in a 3:1 mix of river
sand and compost. Cover with a thin layer
of sand and keep moist. Transplant into
pots at the 2 leaf stage. Seedlings and
young plants transplant easily. Protect
seedlings from heat and sunlight until
hardened off.
Dombeya rotundifolia flowering in October
Management The tree can be coppiced.
Uses I n Umalila the tree is sometimes planted as a
memorial for an event or person. The blossom is
very attractive to bees, producing a light amber
honey with pleasant flavour, but the nectar flow is
reported to be short. I n some areas bees are
reported not to visit the flowers. The timber makes
good firewood and charcoal, and the leaves are
suitable for fodder. I n Umalila the bark is used for
making a very strong rope, though, as the tree is
not very common, sisal is used more often. Bows
are made from the strong flexible branches. Wood is
tough but often twisted. I t is used for tables and
chairs and tool handles. I t is termite resistant when
seasoned. The roots are used medicinally. An edible
I ntanji caterpillar
caterpillar, probably Anaphe reticulata, appears from
March to May and feeds on the leaves. As is the case elsewhere in Africa, it has the same name as the
tree on which it feeds. The caterpillars are tossed with burning charcoal, or placed on a piece of metal
over fire, to remove the hairs. They are then cooked with oil, salt, onion and hot peppers. The tree is
reported to improve soil fertility through its fallen leaves.
References Smith 1956, Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Deschodt 1976, Crane et al. 1984, Beentje
1994, Mbuya et al. 1994, Venter & Venter 1996, van Wyk & Gericke 1997, SEPASAL 1999, Aubrey 2001
80
Dombeya torrida
(Sterculiaceae)
Synonym D. goetzenii
Common names I kunya
Description A much branched, fast growing, deciduous forest tree which can grow up to 25 m tall.
Bark grey and smooth. Leaves are large, up to 28 cm long, hairy and heart shaped with a pointed tip.
Young stems and leaf stalks are often red. Flowers are borne in groups on stalks up to 30 cm long and
have orange anthers. Petals turn yellow-brown and surround the fruit capsule which contains about 10
seeds.
Ecology Grows between 1,800 and 3,300 m altitude in mountain forests, often growing along forest
edges. I t also persists in forest patches and gallery forests and is often seen as a single tree in
mountain grassland and farmland. Rainfall range is from 1,000 to 2,000 mm per year.
Propagation Can be planted from seed but needs careful attention. The seed is not easy to obtain and
it may be easier to plant out wild seedlings.
Management Can be coppiced, lopped or pollarded.
Uses One of the best nectar-producing trees in Africa. Bees collect pollen and nectar throughout the
day and, if the trees are numerous, they will provide abundant honey. The leaves are browsed by cattle.
The wood is soft and easy to work and therefore suitable for turning and house construction, but is not
durable in the ground. I t is used for poles and tool handles and is suitable for firewood. The bark fibre is
used for making cloth and rope. Fallen leaves produce good mulch, improving the soil. Root bark is used
for dressing wounds. The tree is used for soil conservation and as a support for beehives in Rwanda.
References Smith 1956, Egli & Kalinganire 1988, Rochelau et al. 1988, Beentje 1994, Fichtl & Adi
1994, Katende et al. 1995, Lovett et al. 2006
81
Dovyalis abyssinica
(Flacourtiaceae)
Common names I sogwa
Description A small much branched spiny tree
up to 8 m tall having a rounded crown. Trunk
may be up to 20 cm across having pale greybrown bark. The young bark is covered with
brown lenticels. Branches sometimes have
slender axillary spines 0.5 – 1.5 (rarely up to 2.5
cm) long. Leaves are alternate 4 – 9 cm long and
2 – 3 cm wide. Leaf stalk 2 – 4 cm long. Female
flowers solitary. Male flowers in clusters with 40
– 60 stamens, yellow-green or greenish white.
Fruit is globular, yellow-red with minute paler
dots approximately 2 cm across. Seeds are few
and hairy.
Ecology Present in upland rain-forest, beside
streams and in dry evergreen forest, sometimes
in open wooded grassland from 1,500 to 3,000
m. Present throughout East Africa and in
Ethiopia, Somalia and Malawi.
Propagation Can be grown from seed. Soak
fruits in water for 24 hours, break them up and
collect seeds. The seeds store well.
Management The tree can be grown as a
hedge and can be trimmed and coppiced.
Uses The flowers are reported to
be visited by bees in Umalila.
Fruits are edible and may be sour
or sweet. Wood is hard and used
for firewood, tool handles, and
beds. The leaves are pounded,
soaked in water and taken for
indigestion. The roots are used to
treat venereal diseases.
References FTEA 1975, BekeleTesemma 1993, Beentje 1994,
Hepburn & Radloff 1998, Najma
Dharani 2002, Lovett et al. 2006
Photo : Najma Dharani
82
Dracaena steudneri
(Dracaenaceae)
Synonyme D. papau
Common names I teti (Malila), dragon tree
Description A shrub or
small tree growing up to
18 m tall. The trunk is
swollen and is often
branched from the base.
Leaves are crowded at the
end of the branches, each
up to 60 cm long. I nner
leaves are erect, outer
ones droop. Flowers are
white or pale yellowgreen,
fragrant
and
produced in a large
flowering
heads.
The
fruits are red, orange or
yellow and about 12 – 14
mm in diameter, juicy and
eaten by birds.
Ecology Grows in moist
or dry evergreen forest.
Plants are sometimes left
in gardens or grow in
hedges
in
Umalila.
Altitude range 1,250 –
2,100 m. Also present in
Mozambique
and
Zimbabwe and north to
Ethiopia and Sudan.
Propagation Grows well
from cuttings. Seed of
other species germinates
quickly and well but
cannot be stored for long
periods.
Management
Other
species are fast growing
and coppice well.
Dracaena steudneri flowering in October
Uses Sometimes planted
as a boundary hedge in
Umalila.
Beehives are
often placed in this tree. Elsewhere it is grown as a windbreak and as a boundary marker. The leaves
are used for wrapping certain foods. Bees collect nectar and pollen and, because it flowers after the
main honey flow, it is a valuable plant for strengthening colonies. The root is used as a remedy for
rheumatism in Tanzania and for the relief of wind in East Africa. The root is used in baking in Ethiopia.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Coates Palgrave 1983, Bekele-Tesemma et al. 1993,
Beentje 1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Mbuya et al. 1994, Lovett et al. 2006, White et al. 2001, Burrows &
Willis 2005
83
Duhaldea stuhlmannii
(Asteraceae)
Common name Uwutupwa, isasami, ikusa
Description A vigorous creeper which scrambles over other plants. Flowers are produced in October in
Umalila.
Ecology Grows at the forest edge at around 2,000m. A rare plant previously known only from the
Usambara and Uluguru mountains (Personal communication - Vollesen 2001).
Uses Reported as a good bee forage though the honey produced is said to be rather bitter. The plant is
also used as a fish poison.
Soil erosion is a serious problem
in some parts of Umalila. Planting
crops or fodder grasses, such as
Napier or Guatemala grass, along the
contour can reduce soil erosion
considerably.
84
Ehretia cymosa
(Boraginaceae)
Synonym E. sylvatica
Common names I tundumusi
Description A much branched, crooked, fast growing tree or shrub, very variable in size. I t may grow
up to 20 m high. Bark is pale brown with prominent lenticels. Leaves are simple and alternate on short
petioles 1.2 – 3.5 cm long. The tree is often covered with the small, white, sweet scented flowers. The
plant was seen in flower in October.
Ecology Common between altitudes 500 and 2,700 m in high rainfall areas of Tanzania. I t occurs often
in secondary medium-altitude evergreen bush in Ethiopia. Found in West and Central Africa and south
to Zimbabwe.
Propagation Easily grown from seed.
Uses Bees collect nectar and pollen throughout the day from the flowers. The tree is known to be a
valuable bee plant with a long flowering period. I t provides valuable timber for furniture and farm tools.
The leaves are browsed by livestock. Branches are used for firewood. I n Ghana the small stems are
used as chewsticks. The plant has various medicinal uses. I n East Africa the leaf sap is sprinkled on
wounds to stop excessive loss of blood. I n Ethiopia the tree is planted around dwellings to attract bees
to the hives.
References Bally 1937, Burkill 1985, Blundell 1987, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, White
et al. 2001, Lovett et al. 2006
85
Ekebergia capensis
(Meliaceae)
Common names I hoho (Malila), Cape ash, dog plum.
Description
An evergreen, or semievergreen tree, up to 30 m in height. The
stem is swollen at the base and may be
buttressed. Leaves are glossy, compound, 10
– 35 cm long with usually 6 - 14 leaflets and
one terminal leaflet. Male and female flowers
are produced on different trees, often in
great abundance. The flowers are small,
greenish yellow or white, and sweetly
scented. Fruits are round, 1 – 2 cm in
diameter, turning pink to yellow-red when
ripe. The tree is reasonably fast growing.
Ecology Found from Ethiopia to Western
Cape in South Africa and from sea level to
3,000 m. I n Tanzania it is found in lowland
scrub, and in riverine and highland forest. I t
is sometimes planted as an ornamental tree
in towns. The tree grows well in deep sandy
soils.
Propagation Germination of fresh seed is
good but slow (37% after 4 weeks and 60%
after 6 weeks). Fruit is best collected from
the tree. Flesh must be removed from the
seed by soaking in water and squashing by
hand. The seeds are then washed in water.
They do not store well and should be sown
within 4 weeks of harvest. Plant no deeper
than 5 mm in river sand. Seedlings can also
be collected from the wild. Cuttings can be
taken from the tips or from older wood and
planted in sand. Alternatively large cuttings (truncheons) can be planted direct at the permanent site.
Management The tree grows fast and
can be interplanted with bananas and
coffee without affecting yields. Young trees
should be protected from livestock for the
first two years.
Uses I n Umalila the tree is reported to be
a valuable bee forage in November. Bees
are known to be strongly attracted to the
flowers for nectar and pollen in South
Africa and Ethiopia. I n Ethiopia the bark is
burnt in traditional hives to attract bees to
enter. The wood is light, soft and strawcoloured with an even grain; it works
easily and makes attractive furniture but is
not very durable. The wood is suitable for
poles, tool handles and light construction
Ekebergia capensis with a few flowers in July.
work and also for firewood and charcoal.
Leaves can be fed to stock. Various parts
of the tree have medicinal uses and the tree can also be grown for shade.
References Deschodt 1976, Coates Palgrave 1983, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Mbuya et al. 1994, Venter &
Venter 1996, I CRAF 1998, Msanga 1998, van Wyk & Gericke 2000, Dlamini & Sisulu 2004, Lovett et al.
2006
86
Eleusine coracana
(Poaceae)
Common names Uwulezi (Malila), mwimbi, mbege, ulezi (Swahili), finger millet.
Description A tufted annual grass, growing 40 – 170 cm tall, and taking between two and a half and
six months to mature. I t has narrow grass like leaves and many tillers and branches. The head consists
of a group of finger like spikes.
Ecology A traditional food
crop in Umalila but probably
grown less frequently now.
I t is often planted on land
cleared
from
Kotschya
recurvifolia. Certain varieties
are suited to upland areas,
growing between 1,000 and
2,000 m. The plants require
a well distributed rainfall
throughout
the
growing
season with the absence of
long drought periods. I t will
grow under a wide variety of
soil conditions but prefers
well drained, fertile sandy
loams. I t will not tolerate
water-logging. Heavy rain at
flowering can affect grain
setting and reduce crop yield.
Propagation Either the bush is cut and burnt before sowing with the first rains or grassland is dug and
the sods turned over and placed in heaps and burnt. Seed is usually broadcast in November. I t would
reduce the labour needed for weeding, as well as the risk of erosion, if seed was planted in lines across
the slope. A fine seedbed is required. Two crops a year can be grown if early maturing varieties are
used. Seed germination drops to 50% after 2 years. There is no dormancy period. I f sown in lines, rows
should be spaced 20 – 35 cm apart and plants thinned to a spacing of between 5 and 10 cm in the
rows.
Management I ndividual heads are cut with a knife together with some stalk. The heads are then
usually dried out above the kitchen fire. Alternatively the heads can be piled in heaps for a few days.
This encourages fermentation and the heating makes the seed easier to thresh.
Uses Finger millet is one of the world's most nutritious crops. The protein content is from 6.7 to 8%
being especially rich in Methionine. The stored crop is not attacked by insects though mice are a major
problem in Umalila. The grain is made into flour and used in the preparation of uji (liquid porridge) or
ugali (stiff porridge). Sour milk and melted butter may be added to finger millet ugali. The flour can also
be made into bread. Milling can be simplified using the "mini millet mill". The porridge tends to be gritty
and is often eaten with a slippery vegetable like Corchorus olitorius L. The seeds may also be
germinated and made into malt, an easily digested food for infants and elderly people. Much of the crop
is used for beer making in Umalila. Finger millet straw makes good fodder containing up to 61 % total
digestible nutrients.
Remarks The main problem with finger millet is the time taken for weeding, harvesting and threshing.
A wild relative of finger millet is hard to differentiate in the field making weeding particularly difficult.
The crop is subject to quelea and other bird attack and can sometimes be attacked by a serious fungal
disease.
References Acland 1971, Purseglove 1972, BOSTI D 1996, Maundu 1999, de Wet 2006
87
Emilia sp.
(Asteraceae)
Common names Enzumba
Ecology A common plant in cultivated land and beside paths.
Uses Bees were seen visiting the flowers in June. Bees are known to collect nectar and pollen from E.
discifolia in Ethiopia.
Remarks There are 38 species of Emilia in East Africa. This is probably E. basifolia (Personal
communication - Vollesen).
References Blundell 1987, Fichtl & Adii 1994
Yalenga village from I saho forest
88
Ensete ventricosum
(Musaceae)
Synonym E. edule
Common
names
I gawo
(Malila),
mabangala (Nyakyusa), ndizi mwitu
(Swahili), false banana
Description A giant herb arising from a
short upright rhizome. Plants are usually
from 4 to 12 m tall. The edible pseudostem is formed from the overlapping
bases of leaves. Leaf blades are erect or
spreading, forming a large rosette. The
mid-rib is red or green. The flower
appears from the centre of the rosette
and hangs down when mature. The fruits
resemble small bananas, and are
arranged in clusters. The hard black
seeds, 15 - 20 mm in diameter, are
embedded in orange pulp. Once the
seeds become ripe the whole plant dies.
Ecology Common in forests in Umalila.
Found in disturbed places in upland
forest, often in ravines and on steep
slopes, or in swamps and on river banks,
but also sometimes in drier lowland
Ensete ventricosum in forest in Umalila
forests. Rainfall range 900 – 2,250 mm. The plant can be
found growing wild in many parts of sub-Saharan Africa. I t
thrives in the cool tropics between 1,700 – 2,450 m and
grows well on deep, well drained soils of volcanic origin with
a pH of between 5.6 and 7.3. The plant can grow in wet and
weed infested soils.
Propagation
Can be grown
from seed or
suckers.
Squeezing out liquid from a section of
stem. This can be drunk
Management I n Ethiopia where the plants are grown for
food the stems are normally harvested just before
flowering, which occurs 3 - 9 years after planting,
depending on altitude, system of growing, number of
times transplanted, soil and rainfall.
Left : Seed being used to play the game of bao or bao la
mtaji
89
Uses I n Umalila the leaves, slightly wilted, are
used for wrapping foods. The stem and leaves
are used as a cattle fodder during the dry
season and the stem produces a brown dye.
The liquid squeezed from sections of the stem
is drunk for refreshment when no water is
available (see above). I t is also splashed into a
beehive, apparently to encourage bees to build
comb. Bees visit the flowers for nectar. The
fruit is occasionally eaten in Umalila but
elsewhere is used only as a famine food. Leaf
strips are used for binding material. The leaves
are also used to make up bee smokers for
harvesting honey (see below). The black seeds
are used for making necklaces and in the game
of bao (see above). The plant is grown for
shade and as an ornamental. I n Ethiopia it is
an important traditional food being cultivated
for the flour obtained from the fermented
Ensete ventricosum in flower
pseudo-stem and corm. Occasionally the
young flowers are cooked and eaten. The
corms can also be cooked unfermented.
The young plants produce leaves which are
used as a vegetable and mature leaves are
used for thatching in Kenya. Pieces of stem
are boiled and the liquid is drunk for the
treatment of liver problems. Juice from the
stem is drunk by Meru women to protect
them from childbirth problems. A white
powder is made from the seeds and used
to treat wounds. I n Malawi the fibre from
the outside of the leaf stalk is used to
make a strong string.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk
1962, Williamson 1975, Kokwaro 1976,
Peters et al. 1992, FTEA 1993, Beentje
1994, Raemaekers 2001, Ruffo et al. 2002,
Schippers 2002, Lovett et al. 2006, NRC
2006
Ripe fruits (I mbidio) have poor taste and contain large
seeds
Left : Making up a smoker
from split bamboo stems
wrapped in leaves from
Ensete ventricosum, for
use
when
harvesting
honey.
90
Entandrophragma excelsum
(Meliaceae)
Common names I hale (Malila), mahogany
Description
A
deciduous
forest tree with a clear trunk up
to about 24 m and having a
large crown. The base of the
trunk is buttressed up to 4 – 5
m. Bark thick grey and smooth
when young, becoming brown
with pale pink-orange patches.
Leaves, up to 60 cm long, or
more, are compound with 5 – 7
pairs of leaflets. Each leaflet is
18 cm long and 8 cm wide.
Flowers are tiny, white in stiff
heads about 30 cm long and 10
cm across. Fruit is a cylindrical
woody capsule, dark brown
black, 12 – 20 cm long, pointed
and breaking open into 5 parts,
starting at the base but falling
together. Winged seeds are about 7 cm long. Seed is produced every 2 years.
Ecology Grows in mountain rainforest between altitudes of 1,500 and 2,000 m. Also present in Uganda,
D.R.Congo and Malawi.
Propagation
Can be grown
from seed or wild seedlings. Soak
the seed in cold water for 12
hours. Seeds should be stored in
wood-ash but no longer than for
2 months. Germination of fresh
seed can reach 95% .
Right : Seeds and fruit
in I lomba forest.
Management Shade seedlings
until well established. Seedlings
can be panted out as an avenue
or in pure stands. I n Rwanda the
tree is planted around buildings,
in fields and banana plantations
and along water courses.
Uses An important timber tree, though the timber warps and twists unless well seasoned. The wood is
used for heavy construction, carpentry, tools, firewood and charcoal. The tree is used for soil
stabilization and to provide shade. The fallen leaves produce a good mulch and are used medicinally in
Rwanda. Root bark ash is rubbed into scarifications made when a person coughs up blood. At I lomba
the flowers are reported to be visited by bees.
References Williamson 1975, Egli & Kananganire 1988, Katende et al. 1995, Neuwinger 2000, White et
al. 2001, Vande weghe 2004, Burrows & Willis 2005, Lovett et al. 2006
91
Eriobotrya japonica
(Rosaceae)
Common
names I nsongwa
(Malila),
loquat
Description A compact tree growing up
to 7 m high and branching close to the
ground. The bark is grey and rough,
young stems are hairy. Leaves, up to 35
cm long, have no stalks, are dark green
and shiny above, but have woolly hairs on
the under surface. The tip is pointed and
the edge slightly toothed. Young leaves
are paler. Foliage is borne in upward
pointing tufts towards the end of the
branches. Flowers are cream to white,
scented, in pyramid like tufts also at the
ends of branches, flower buds being
covered with golden-brown hairs. The
tree flowers profusely after rains. Fruit is yellow, egg shaped to 3.5 - 6 cm with brown-black seeds The
flesh is acid-sweet.
Ecology Originally from China, Japan and northern I ndia. I t is grown occasionally in home gardens in
Umalila. The tree does well in the Tanzanian highlands from 1,500 – 2,400 m. I t is drought resistant
once established, but prefers a moderate to high rainfall range of between 900 and 1,200 mm. I t
produces the best fruit in sheltered areas. Soil should preferably be acid and well drained.
Propagation
This
is
normally done by direct
sowing, or by transplanting
seedlings or wild seedlings.
No treatment is necessary
but the seed does not store
well and should therefore be
sown as soon as possible.
I mproved
varieties
are
propagated by layering or
grafting.
Management
Fairly fast
growing.
Trees
start
producing 2 – 3 years after
planting
but
should
be
pruned to increase the size of
fruit
as they
tend
to
overbear. Pruning should be done immediately after harvest. Normal yield of fruit per tree is between
16 and 20 kg per annum.
Uses The fruit is normally eaten fresh but can be made into an excellent jelly. I t is rich in vitamin A,
having a high carotene content, but the quality of the fruit is very variable. The fruit is a good source of
acid and pectin. The wood is used for firewood, poles and carving, and the tree is planted as a
boundary marker in Arusha and Kilimanjaro areas. The tree provides shade, mulch and makes a good
windbreak. Because of the long flowering period it is a valuable bee forage. Bees collect both pollen and
nectar. Nectar secretion is moderate to good but is reduced during dry periods, especially if dust is
carried onto the flowers. Sugar concentration of nectar is high, from 30.5 to 65% and pollen yield is
also good. Honeybees are the main pollinators.
Remarks I f improved grafted trees are available, they make stronger growth, remain smaller, and
mature and produce fruit faster. Always remove seeds before cooking as they are poisonous.
References FAO 1982, Crane et al 1984, Macmillan 1991, Nguyen Tien Hiep & Verheij 1991, Fichtl &
Adi 1994, Mbuya et al 1994, I CRAF 1998
92
Erythrina abyssinica
(Fabaceae)
Synonym E. tomentosa
Common
names
I seve,
esebe
(Malila), mwamba ngoma (Swahili),
red-hot poker tree, lucky bean tree
Description A small deciduous tree
with deeply grooved bark from 5 to 15
m high. Leaves are compound with 3
alternate leaflets, each 5.5 – 15 cm
long and 6 – 14 cm wide. The terminal
leaflet is the largest. Flower heads, up
to 5 cm long, appear before the leaves
during the dry season. Seeds are shiny
red.
Ecology
Normally found in warm
temperate and tropical areas of Africa.
I t grows best in well-drained soils at
altitudes between 1,250 and 2,400 m.
Trees can be planted near the home
and around field boundaries without
affecting crop yields. The tree tolerates
fire and is fairly termite resistant.
Propagation
Grows easily
from
cuttings, after removal of the leaves.
Plant 50 cm cuttings at the start of the
rain season or just before flowering.
Germination rate of seed is low, though
this can be improved by rubbing seed
on sandpaper. Alternatively seed can
be soaked in water for several hours
before planting.
Management Trees are slow-growing
and can be coppiced or pollarded.
Uses The tree produces flowers
over a long period and is a
valuable source of nectar and
pollen for bees at the end of the
dry season. Wood is used for
carved items (kitchen utensils
mortars, stools, guitars and
drums)
and
sometimes
for
firewood. Though it does not split
when being nailed it does not
hold nails well. The bark and
leaves are used medicinally. I n
Umalila
the
leaves
were
sometimes used
instead
of
spoons. The leaves provide
fodder for sheep and goats, and
also make good mulching. The
Erythrina abyssinica flowering in October
tree is nitrogen fixing and
therefore useful for soil improvement. Cut branches are used for making hedges. A brown dye is
extracted from the bark. The tree can provide good shade.
References Egli & Kalinganire 1988, Pauwels 1993, Mbuya et al. 1994, Van Wyk et al. 1997, I CRAF
1998
93
Eucalyptus saligna
(Myrtaceae)
Common names I longoti (Malila), mkaratusi, mtimbao (Swahili), Sydney blue gum, saligna gum
Description
The tree can
grow from 30 to 50 m high.
The straight trunk may be
clear of side branches from
half to 2/ 3 of the total height.
Bark is rough, brown, peeling
in strips near the base, but
smooth,
green-white
on
branches. Young leaves are at
first opposite then alternate.
Adult leaves are curved, 9 –
17 cm long and 2 – 3 cm wide.
7 to 11 flower buds are
produced in the leaf axils.
Ecology This is the dominant
gum tree grown in the
highlands of Tanzania. I t is
widely planted
throughout
Africa, though see ‘Remarks’
below. I t will grow on all sites
other than those infested with
termites. I t grows best on
sandy loams which are moist
and well drained.
Propagation Seed should be
planted in nurseries and then
transferred to plastic sleeves before planting out. The young plants should be grown in full sunlight and
kept clean weeded for the first two years. Seed remains viable for a long time if kept dry. Trees start
bearing seed from 7 – 8 years of age.
Management The tree is fast
growing and can be coppiced.
Uses The flowers of various
Eucalyptus
species
are
an
important source of nectar. A fine
extra light amber honey is
produced from Eucalyptus in
combination with Olea sp. The
tree is often planted for firewood.
The timber is used for making
furniture
and
in
general
construction work, for veneers,
plywood, poles and posts. I t is
also used for charcoal, medicine,
shade and windbreaks.
Remarks I n Africa many of the
early plantations were actually of
E. grandis not E. saligna as the
former was not named until 1918.
Before that seed of both species
were exported under the name of E. saligna. Hybrids of the two species are also present.
References Smith 1960, Crane et al. 1984, Mbuya et al 1994, Brooker & Kleinig 1996, I CRAF 1998
94
Euphorbia nyikae
(Euphorbiaceae)
Common names I langali, irangari
Description Shrub or more often a tree from
3 to 12 m high. Branches are succulent, in
segments and are winged with 2 - 4 spiny
wings. The spines are 0.3 - 3 cm long. Leaves
are deciduous. Flowers and fruit are yellowgreen.
Ecology Grows in bushland and woodland on
rocky hills and outcrops between altitudes of
550 and 2,000 m.
Propagation Cuttings root easily when the
soil is dry, but great care should be taken not
to get sap into the eyes.
Uses Bees visit the flowers in Umalila but the
honey produced is reported to be bitter. E.
abyssinica and E. candelabrum are also visited
by bees for the abundant nectar and some
pollen. These trees are very helpful in
strengthening colonies and maintaining brood
rearing in the dry season. However the yellow
honey produced from E. abyssinica is said to be
poisonous, though this is not normally a
problem, as bees collect nectar from other
sources at the same time. The wood is used for
construction work and the trunk for making
beehives in Umalila. I t is also sometimes grown
as a hedge (see below). The root or fresh latex
is used medicinally in eastern Tanzania to treat
epilepsy, inflammation of the urinary tract and
blood in the urine.
References Beentje 1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Neuwinger 2000
Euphorbia nyikae planted as a hedge
95
Faurea saligna
(Proteaceae)
Synonym F.speciosa
Common names Vunda vunda (Malila), beechwood, red beech.
Description A deciduous shrub or slender forest tree growing up to 17 m high with a dense crown.
The trunk is often twisted. Leaves are up to 16 cm long and 3 – 3.5 cm wide. Flowers are 12 - 15 cm
long and 2 - 3 cm wide, greenish-creamy white, and smell of coconut or honey. The tree resembles a
Eucalyptus. I t sprouts from an underground stem. Seed is dispersed by wind.
Photo : Braam van Wyk
Ecology. Found in both low and high altitude forest from Nigeria to Sudan and in southern Africa.
Common around forest edges in Tanzania. Trees are often left standing in crop-land. I t is common in
savannah bush in north-eastern South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe with an altitude range of
2,100 to 3,000m. The tree is often associated with poor, sandy or rocky soils.
Propagation Use fresh seed but trees are not easy to grow. Seed viability is lost after 1 month.
Management The tree grows rather slowly. I t can withstand some fire damage but not fierce grass
fires. Trees are sometimes left in cropland.
Uses An excellent bee forage producing plenty of nectar. Sometimes however, although the tree may
flower, little nectar is produced. There is normally a heavy flow every 5 years. Honey flavour is strong
and malty. The honey is black, solidifies fairly quickly and tastes aromatic, similar to toffee. The timber
is used for furniture and construction work. The hard, yellow-brown heartwood has an attractive, netlike patterned grain, and is valued for panelling, ornaments, utensils and furniture. Stems are used for
poles and posts. The wood is also used for firewood or charcoal. The roots and bark are used
medicinally. The leaf and root are used for ear troubles in Zimbabwe and the root to treat diarrhoea and
indigestion in East Africa. The leaves make good mulching. The tree is grown as a windbreak. The bark
can be used for tanning and dyeing. The wood is resistant to termites and borers.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Wild et al. 1972, Williamson 1975, Coates Palgrave 1983,
Crane et al. 1984, FTEA 1993, Mbuya et al. 1994, Burkill 1997, I CRAF 1998, SEPASAL 1999, van Wyk &
Gericke 2000, Kihwele et al. 2001
96
Ficus lutea
(Moraceae)
Synonym F. vogelii
Common names I ndolo or I ndola (Malila), mkuyu (Swahili), giant leaved fig.
Description A large spreading,
buttressed tree, often having a
short trunk, but which may
grow up to 30 m high. The tree
may have aerial roots and is
sometimes epiphytic. Bark is
dark brown to grey and
smooth. Cuts in the bark
produce latex freely. Leaves
have clear yellow veining and
are 7 – 25 cm long and 3 – 12
cm wide, simple, alternate and
in a spiral. The petiole is 1.3 13 cm long. Flowers are
produced in leaf axils or just
below. Fruit is stalk less, round,
1 – 2.5 cm, yellow orange or
brown when ripe.
Ecology Although this tree normally grows beside rivers in the lowland tropics, it is also present in
some highland situations. Present in Eastern and Southern Africa and in Angola and D.R. Congo.
Propagation Short branches up to 60 cm long
strike easily and grow fast in warm moist
conditions. I t can also be grown from seed. The
ripe figs should be opened and dried for a day or
two. Cover seed lightly and keep moist and in
sunlight. Germination takes place from 10 days to
one month.
Right : Cuts made in the trunk
to extract latex for bird lime.
Uses I n Umalila the stakes are used for cattle
bomas and the latex for trapping birds. The tree
makes a good shade tree. The bark was formerly
used for making bark cloth in Tanzania. This is still
done in Mozambique. I n Tanzania the latex is used
to stop blood loss and to dress wounds. Fruit is
sometimes eaten by children. I n southern Africa
the wood ash is used to make soap. Leaves can be
used for fodder.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Coates Palgrave 1983, Burkill 1997, Dharani 2002, Burring
2004, Lovett et al. 2006
97
Ficus thonningii
(Moraceae)
Synonyms
persicifolia
Common
F.
hochstetteri,
name I vum
mrumbapori (Swahili).
F.
(Malila),
Description An evergreen tree up to
30 m high, with a dense crown. The
tree sometimes grows as an epiphyte
and may strangle the host tree. Bark
is smooth, pale brown or grey. When
cut it produces a white latex, which
often turns pinkish. Figs, enclosing
many small flowers, are borne in the
leaf axils. These are pollinated by a
small wasp living inside.
Ecology The tree is widespread in
tropical Africa and South Africa. I t
grows on a variety of soils but
favours rich, deep loamy soils and is
relatively drought resistant.
Propagation Stem cuttings, 20 cm
long, root easily, sprouting after 7 - 9
days. Remove most of the leaves,
leaving only a few at the top. Larger
cuttings, 2 m long, can also be
planted for hedges, but should be
left in the shade for a few days
before planting. Root cuttings can
also be used.
Management Protect the tree from browsing when young. I t should not be planted near buildings as
the roots may damage the foundations.
Uses Stems are used for
livestock
enclosures,
boundary markers and as
a goat fodder. Livestock
eat the dry leaves in
particular. A decoction of
the leaves is used to
treat mental disorders,
stomach-ache,
coughs
and abscesses. A wash is
made from the pounded
leaves
to
treat
haemorrhoids. The bark
is pounded, soaked in
water and used to treat
rheumatism. A good jam
can be made from the
fruit. The latex can be
used as a glue and birdlime.
References Cobbina & Reynolds 1988, Keay 1989, Mbuya et al. 1994, Venter & Venter 1996, I CRAF
1998, Maundu et al. 1999, Neuwinger 2000, Lovett et al. 2006
98
Flacourtia indica
(Flacourtiaceae)
Common names I sugwa (Malila), governor’s plum, I ndian plum, Madagascar plum
Description A deciduous shrub or small tree, up to 10 m tall. The trunk bears straight or sometimes
branched spines, up to 12 cm long. Branches may also have large spines. Bark is rough, powdery, pale
yellow-grey. Leaves, red or pink when young, are variable in size, up to 12 cm long with toothed edges.
The tree bears small, cream, fragrant male and female flowers. Fruits are reddish-purple to black, round
and juicy but rather acid, up to 2 .5 cm diameter, containing up to 10 seeds. The fruits remain on the
bare tree after the leaves turn bright red-purple and fall.
Ecology The tree is fairly
common and grows well
in mountain woodland
and at forest edges, on a
variety of soils, from sea
level to 2,400 m. Present
throughout Tanzania and
sometimes left on farms
or
cultivated.
It
is
sometimes grown as a
hedge. I t is widespread in
tropical
Africa,
Madagascar,
Seychelles
and Malaysia.
Propagation
Branch from a tree growing near Yalenga
The tree
cannot be vegetatively
propagated but is grown
from seed, which however
needs to be cracked,
nicked or pierced before
planting. Germination may
take up to 9 weeks. Wild
seedlings can also be used.
Management The tree is slow growing. I t can
be grown as a hedge, tolerating frequent
trimming. I t can also be coppiced.
Uses I n Tanzania the fruit is eaten raw and has
a pleasant flavour. I t is also used to make jam
and jelly. I t is sometimes sold in markets. Fruits
are sometimes dried for later use and then
soaked in water before eating. The branches
can be cut for livestock fodder. The leaves are
used medicinally to relieve wind and are
astringent, causing contraction of the body
tissue and blood vessels. They are also used to
treat asthma and as a tonic for anaemia. The
roots are used to treat indigestion and stomach
Photo : Ken Love, University of Hawaii
pains, snakebite and infertility. Roots are used
to treat sore throats and coughs. The wood is
white and tough and used for firewood, charcoal, spoons, beds and for building. The tree can be grown
as a windbreak. Bees are reported to visit the flowers.
References Macmillan 1991, Verheij & Coronel 1991, Burkill 1994, Leakey & Newton 1994, Mbuya et
al. 1994, Maundu et al. 1999, SEPASAL 1999, van Wyk & Gericke 2000, Ruffo et al. 2002, Lovett et al.
2006
99
Fuchsia magellanica
(Onagraceae)
Synonym F. macrostemma, F. gracilis
Common names Fuchsia
Fuchsia hedge round a home in I lembo town
Description A shrub growing from 2 to 3 m high. The leaves are in opposite pairs or whorls of 3.
Flowers are produced in large numbers over a long period. They are 4 – 5 cm long and borne on stalks
which arise in the axils. They have a crimson tube and sepals and purple petals with protruding
stamens.
Ecology Best grown in well drained soil. The plant will
tolerate some shade.
Propagation Use 5 - 10 cm long softwood cuttings
from the tips without flowers. These should be planted
early in the rain season. Space 90 – 120 cm apart.
Management The plants should be trimmed back to
form a thick hedge.
Uses Sometimes used as a hedge plant around homes
in Umalila. Flowers have a high nectar content, the
nectar being protected from rain by the drooping
nature of the flower. The honey is of light colour and
has little flavour. Another species, F. excorticata, is an
important honey source in New Zealand.
References Jex-Blake 1957, Hay 1978, Howes 1979, Crane et al. 1984
100
Galinieria saxifraga
(Rubiaceae)
Synonym Galiniera coffeoides Del.
Common names I liepwa
Description A shrub or small tree up to 14 m tall with smooth grey bark, and often having long downcurved branches. Leaves are simple, opposite, on short petioles, 8 – 18 cm long and 3 – 7 cm wide,
often with reddish veins. Triangular stipules are present between the petioles. Flowers are fragrant and
white with pink-tips. The fruits are red and round, 7.5 – 9 mm across.
Ecology The tree grows in moist forest, often near water, between altitudes 1,850 and 2,400 m. I t is
present from Sudan and Ethiopia through eastern D.R. Congo and Rwanda and into Malawi and Zambia.
Uses I n Umalila and in Ethiopia bees forage for both pollen and nectar. The tree is grown to provide
shade and as an ornamental tree. The wood is used for firewood, tool handles, spoons, walking sticks
and stirring sticks. The fruits are used medicinally in Ethiopia.
References Beentje 1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994, White et al. 2001, Burrows & Willis 2005, Lovett et al.
2006
101
Galinsoga parviflora
(Asteraceae)
Common names I kuvengwa (Malila), Kew weed, gallant soldier
Description A small annual herb up to 20 cm high but it may grow to 60 cm in fertile soils. Much
branched, almost hairless. Leaves are opposite and simple, up to 6 cm long with a pointed tip. The tiny
flowers are produced all the year round in heads, up to 1.8 cm in diameter, and have many yellow
tubular florets in the centre. There are 5 outer female florets composed of small white petals which
have 3 lobes.
Ecology A notorious weed,
originally from South America.
Often present in vegetable
gardens in Umalila. I t thrives
in well drained sites and is
difficult to eradicate because
uprooted plants tend to reestablish themselves easily.
Uses Bees collect nectar and
pollen. The young stems and
leaves are used as a vegetable
in several countries in central
Africa. I n Kenya and Uganda
the young leaves are chopped
up and cooked as a vegetable with simsim or groundnut paste. They are also eaten
in I ndonesia and can be fed to chickens, rabbits and pigs. 100 g fresh plant contains
3.2 g protein. The herb has strong cardio-vascular properties and is used
occasionally for dressing wounds. Stems and leaves are chewed to cure colds or
sores.
Reference Uphof 1968, Kokwaro 1976, Burkill 1985, Goode 1989, Fichtl & Adi
1994, Katende et al. 1999, Maundu et al. 1999, Neuwinger 2000, Schippers 2004
Khatanta forest near Maendeleo village
102
Garcinia kingaensis
(Clusiaceae)
Synonym G. mlanjiensis
Common names Penausiku, mpukuso
(Malila), mpekesho (Swahili), northern
forest Garcinia, African mangosteen.
Description A small to medium, often
slender, tree up to 15 m high. I t has
numerous, regular, horizontal branches.
Bark is brown and smooth. Young
branches are grooved and square in
section. The dark green, thick leaves
are 6 – 16 cm long, with a prominent
tip. Orange-yellow fruits are up to 2.5
cm in diameter.
Ecology The tree is common and often
grows as an under-storey shrub in
evergreen forest, beside rivers and in
open woodland. I t is also present in
Malawi,
Zambia,
Zimbabwe
and
Mozambique.
Uses Fruits are edible and have a
refreshing acid-sweet taste. Extracts of
the leaves and flowers have been found
to have antibiotic properties. Wood is used for general
purpose carpentry but is difficult to saw. An aqueous
extract from the roots is drunk to relieve chest pains in
Malawi.
Remarks Reported as a bee forage. Bees are known to
collect nectar from G. livingstonia in Tanzania.
References Williamson 1975, Coates Palgrave 1983, Ruffo
et al. 2002, Lovett et al. 2006
103
Garcinia kingaensis in flower at Sheyo
in October
Geniosporum rotundifolium
(Lamiaceae)
Synonym G. paludosum
Common names I shumwa
Description
A very variable, erect
perennial herb, growing from a woody
rootstock, up to 1.2 m high. The plant
flowers at the end of the rains, from May
to July in Umalila.
Ecology
Widespread in the Southern
Highlands of Tanzania, often beside tracks
and roads, especially at the base of
hedges. The coarse form is found in rocky
sites while the more slender form is found
in seasonally wet areas. Also found on
grazed hilltops, riverine forest and arable
land; altitude range 1,150 – 2,775 m.
Widespread in tropical Africa.
Coarse form flowering in July
Uses A very useful bee forage in Umalila. Bees collect
both nectar and pollen over a long period during the
dry season. An extract from the aerial parts of the
plant is used to treat liver inflammation and an extract
from the leaves and twigs is drunk to treat epilepsy in
Rwanda. The plant is used in a variety of ways in
Burundi, for example, the leaf ash is eaten to treat
vomiting, nausea and coughs and a decoction of leafy
twigs is made into a vapour bath to treat general
weakness and also used as an enema to treat
diarrhoea.
References Blundell 1987, Neuwinger 2000
104
Slender form flowering in May
Gladiolus dalenii
(I ridaceae)
Synonym G. psittacinus, G. natalensis
Common names I shirungu
Description A robust plant, 50 to 150 cm tall,
growing from a corm, 3.5 cm in diameter, with
leaves 40 to 120 cm long and 0.7 to 3 cm broad.
Flowers 3 - 9, very variable in size and colour, 3.5
to 6 cm long, white, yellowish-green, orange, pink,
red or brown often flecked with red or brown.
Flowers are produced throughout the rainy
season.
Ecology The plant is common in grassland above
2,000 m in the Southern Highlands. I t is
widespread throughout tropical and southern
Africa and prefers a well drained, fertile soil.
Propagation Small corms can be separated from
the parent plant and should be planted out 12 cm
deep, spaced at 12 cm. Deep planting helps the
plants stay upright.
Management Porcupines may dig up and eat
the corms.
Uses The corm is used as a soap substitute in
Umalila. Children suck the base of the flowers
for the nectar. I n South Africa a decoction of
the corm is used to treat colds and dysentery.
The powdered corm is often taken for
dysentery. Smoke from burning the corm is
inhaled to treat a cold. The plant is also used
medicinally in Sudan, eastern Congo, Benin,
Togo, Rwanda, Ethiopia. Also grown as an
ornamental.
References Jex-Blake 1957, Watt & BreyerBrandwijk 1962, Cribb & Leedal 1982, Hessayon 1984, Philips & Rix 1997, Neuwinger 2000
105
Gnidia glauca
(Thymelaeaceae)
Common names Suwaji, isuwaji (Malila), balsam tree
Description A shrub up to 3.5 m tall or, less commonly, a small tree with a spreading crown and up to
13 m tall with a woody stem and fibrous bark. Leaves are alternate, but appear as a rosette, 3 – 6.5 cm
long and 0.8 - 1.6 cm wide towards the ends of the branches. The flower head is 3.5 - 5 cm across with
between 20 and 50 yellow or orange slightly fragrant flowers surrounded by bracts.
Ecology Common throughout the southern highlands above 2000 m and often associated with Hagenia
and Kotschya species. Widespread in tropical Africa from Sudan and Ethiopia to Malawi and Zambia.
Management The plant regenerates quickly after fire.
Uses The bark produces a strong fibre which is used for making thread and ropes. I n Umalila the
flowers, produced from June to October, are reported as a bee forage. The roots are boiled and the
liquid drunk to treat indigestion.
Remarks G. involucrata is also called Suwaji (Malila).
References Kokwaro 1976, FTEA 1978, Cribb & Leedal 1982, Beentje 1994, Burkill 2000, White et al.
2001, Burrows & Willis 2005
106
Gnidia involucrata
(Thymelaeaceae)
Common names Suwaji
Description An erect perennial herb with green to reddish stems, growing from a creeping, woody
rhizome. Stems are sometimes brown. A very variable species, especially in the degree of branching,
which appears to be related to variations in the weather and the intensity of burning. The hairless and
commonly un-branched stems are up to 40 cm tall, but may branch and reach 2 m in plants growing at
lower altitudes. Leaves are 1.2 to 1.5 cm long and 1.5 to 4 mm wide. Flowers are yellow or creamyyellow, (sometimes orange-red or pinkish to red), about 1.5 cm long and have large reddish or brown
bracts, 8 – 10 mm long. The plant flowers from September to January though this photo was taken near
Yalenga in April.
Ecology The plant is common in the seasonally burnt grasslands above 1,500 m in the Southern
Highlands. Also found in open and wooded grassland and in deciduous bushland and woodland between
1,000 – 2,700 m altitude, in Ethiopia, Sudan, Uganda, and south to Mozambique.
Uses Bees were reported to visit the flowers near Yalenga. I n Marakwet, Kenya the stalk is chewed to
help clear mucous from the respiratory system. I n Zimbabwe root powder is used to contract the
vaginal canal.
References Cribb & Leedal 1982, Blundell 1987, Neuwinger 2000
107
Gouania longispicata
(Rhamnaceae)
Common names Lihambako
Description A creeper up
to 20 m long which climbs
by means of coiled tendrils
with reddish hairs. Leaves
are simple, alternate, 8.5
cm long and 7 cm wide,
with
toothed
margins.
Flowers are small, greenish
or yellowish white in long
racemes. The plant flowers
after the rain season. Fruits
are light brown and have
three wings.
Ecology Grows in gaps in
the forest and on forest
margins in mountain areas
between 1,100 and 2050 m
altitude. Also present in
southern Nigeria and widely
distributed in eastern Africa from Sudan to Mozambique.
Propagation Can probably be grown from seed.
Uses Reported as an important bee forage in Umalila. Bees are known to collect nectar and pollen in
Ethiopia from this plant. Gouania species are known as bee forage in equatorial and dry savannah areas
of Africa. G. lupuloides and G. polygama are reported to be important honey sources in tropical Central
America. The leaves are eaten in Morogoro district. A root decoction is taken to treat hard pussy
abscesses. Stems are used for tying in Tanzania.
References FZ 1966, Crane et al. 1984, Beentje 1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Burkill 1997, Hepburn &
Radloff 1998, White et al. 2001, Burrows & Willis 2005
108
Grevillea robusta
(Proteaceae)
Common names Grevillea, silk oak, silver oak.
Description A fast growing, deep rooted
tree reaching 20 m in 15 - 20 years on good
sites.
Ecology Originally from Australia but now
grown throughout the subtropics. Mature
trees can withstand occasional light frost but
not young plants. I t grows at a wide range
of altitudes, from sea level to above 2,300
m. Can be grown where annual rainfall is
only 400 - 600 mm, with 6 - 8 dry months. I t
will grow in many types of soil, including
sandy soils, loams of medium fertility and
mildly acid soils but deep soils are preferred.
I t does not tolerate water logging. The roots
are able to extract phosphorus from soils
very low in this mineral. The tree is
sometimes grown as a coffee shade tree in
the Mbeya region.
Propagation Use seed or cuttings. Seed is
difficult to collect as there are only 2 - 3 days
between seed maturity and dispersal by
wind. Only mature seed can be used which
remains viable for up to 3 months.
Germination rate is between 30 and 90% .
Seed should be put out in sunlight for a few
hours before sowing. Natural seeding is fairly
common in cultivated land. The seedlings can be transplanted when 60 cm tall.
Management Moderate to fast growing. Young, but not mature trees, can be coppiced. The tree can
be pollarded. When grown with food crops, branches are pruned and pollarded and lateral roots may
also be pruned to reduce competition with the crop.
Uses A valuable timber tree, suitable for
cabinet making, as well as for firewood
and charcoal. The tree can be planted
in farm land, generally around fields, as
it has little effect on shallow rooted
crops. The flowers are a valuable pollen
and nectar source for bees. The nectar
secretion is abundant with high sugar
concentration and the pollen yield is
heavy. Bees forage all day and, when
flowering is heavy, a surplus of honey is
produced from areas with many trees.
The honey is reddish black, has a strong
flavour and granulates rapidly.
Remarks Although this tree is not grown widely in Umalila farmers are interested in it and it is likely to
become widely planted in future. ADP I sangati have a small plantation at Santiliya.
References Leloup 1956, NAS 1980, Egli & Kalinganire 1988, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Mbuya et al. 1994,
Skene et al 1996
109
Guizotia scabra
(Asteraceae)
Common names I nzumba
Description A very variable, erect, usually rough, perennial herb which can grow up to 2 m high. I t has
a wiry rootstock. Leaves are opposite, simple, have no stalk and clasp the stem. They are often toothed,
5.5 – 10.5 long and 1 – 3 cm wide. The yellow flowers are borne in terminal heads and are produced
throughout the year but most abundantly after the rains.
Ecology Fairly common in upland grassland in Umalila. Also found in abandoned fields. I t is widespread
in Tanzania between the altitudes of 1,520 and 2,780 m in all regions except Tanga and Morogoro. Also
present in Nigeria, Cameroon, D.R. Congo, Zambia, Malawi and Zimbabwe.
Uses The young leaves are eaten as a vegetable in Tanzania. Bees were seen gathering nectar in
Umalila. I n Ethiopia bees gather significant amounts of pollen and nectar from the subspecies scabra,
and the subspecies schimperi is a very important honey source. G. abyssinica, which is grown to
produce Niger oil, is one of the most important honey sources in that country. I n Uganda the stalks with
ripe seeds are also harvested and put on a platform until dry and the seeds are shed. These are then
roasted, ground up and made into a simsim like paste, which has a mildly bitter taste. This is eaten with
vegetables, beans or peas and is an important source of protein and oil. The plant is widely used
medicinally in a number of countries in Africa.
References Goode 1974, Crane et al 1984, Blundell 1987, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Katende et al. 1999, Ruffo
et al. 2002, Bosch 2004
110
Gynura scandens
(Asteraceae)
Common names I wozya
Description A weak creeper which may grow to 12 m long. The plant has an unpleasant smell. Leaves
are fleshy and toothed, 2.5 – 12 cm long and 1.5 to 8 cm wide. The flower heads are composed of
many orange-red flowers, 11 mm across. I n Umalila flowers are produced in October.
Ecology Grows in hedges,
at forest margins and in
clearings, often near water,
up to an altitude of 2,100
m in Tanzania, Kenya,
Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi,
R.D. Congo, Malawi and
Zambia.
Uses
Reported to be
visited by bees. The plant
is used by the Haya people
in Tanzania to treat high
fever in both babies and
adults. Leaves are crushed,
mixed with butter and
rubbed on the whole body
which causes perspiration.
The body may alternatively
be washed with hot water
in which the leaves have
been
soaked.
A
hot
decoction is used for
indigestion. Leaves are also used for fever in eastern DR Congo. An extract of leaves is drunk and
rubbed in for sciatic pain in Rwanda. I n Umalila it is believed that growing the plant in the compound
protects the home from thieves.
References Kokwaro 1976, Blundell 1987, Neuwinger 2000, Burrows & Willis 2005
111
Hagenia abyssinica
(Rosaceae)
Common names I liogoti (Malila), mtulenya, mturunga, nturunga (Nyakyusa)
Description A slender tree up to 20 m high
with a short trunk and thick branches. The
twigs are covered with silky brown hairs and
ringed with leaf scars. Leaves are
compound, 40 cm long, composed of 6 – 8
pairs of leaflets, each up to 15 cm long. The
male and female flowers are produced on
different trees in large hanging bunches, up
to 60 cm long and 30 cm wide. Female
flowers are pinkish-red, male flowers are
orange-white and
more feathery
in
appearance. Flowers may be produced
throughout the year, other than in the
coldest months.
Ecology Grows in East Africa and Ethiopia.
Common in the mist belt, often above the
bamboo zone, in mountain areas, from
1,850 – 3,700 m where mean annual rainfall
is between 1,000 and 1,500 mm. Adapted
to most soils as long as they are well
drained.
Propagation Can be grown from seed or
transplanted wild seedlings. Seed can be
stored for up to 6 months. No treatment is
necessary before planting.
Uses Bees collect pollen from the male and
nectar from the female flowers and the tree
is an important honey source. I t is valued
for its leaf litter being
associated with greater
crop production and faster
fallow recovery. The timber
makes good firewood and
charcoal. I t is dark red and
hard and widely used for
furniture, flooring, beehives
and carving but may be
attacked by borers. The
tree can be used for soil
conservation planted at 2
to 3 m intervals along the
contours. I t does not
compete with crops if
managed
to
prevent
shading. The dry female
flowers are used as a deworming treatment.
References Fichtl & Adi
1994, Mbuya et al. 1994,
I CRAF 1998, East & Thurow
1999, Lovett et al. 2006
Hagenia abyssinica with male flowers in October at Shilanga
112
Halleria lucida
(Scrophulariaceae)
Common names Tree fuschia
Description A small tree growing up to 15 m tall with a crooked and branched trunk. Bark pale grey.
Leaves simple, opposite, and 4.5 – 10 cm long and 2 – 6.2 cm wide, on a petiole from 0.4 – 1.2 cm
long. Flowers are often borne in clusters on the trunk or branches and are orange-yellow with a curved
tube. The fruit is a dark purple berry with sweet gelatinous flesh.
Halleria lucida in flower in the Southern Highlands in October
Ecology Grows in dry mountain forest, on forest margins and in secondary forest growth and riverine
forest at altitudes between 1,400 – 2,450 m. Found from South Africa to Angola, Ethiopia and Yemen.
Propagation Easily propagated by layering but can also be grown from seed. Dry the seed in the
shade after extracting them from the fruits. Seed germinates after 4 – 8 weeks. 10 cm cuttings can be
planted in sandy soil at the beginning of the rains.
Uses The wood is yellow, hard and tough and is used for firewood and tool handles. The flowers are
rich in nectar and visited by bees. An infusion is made from moistened dry leaves and roots and poured
into the ear to relieve ear ache. Thin sticks can be used as fire-sticks. The fruit is edible but has a sickly
sweet taste and tends to dry out the mouth. I t is usually only eaten in times of food shortage. Unripe
fruits can be ripened by burying them in sand. The plant is sometimes grown as an ornamental bush.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Deschodt 1976, Coates Palgrave 1983, Beentje 1994,
Johannsmeier & Allsopp 1995, Venter & Venter 1996, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, White et al. 2001,
Burrows & Willis 2005, Lovett et al. 2006
113
Haumaniastrum venosum
(Lamiaceae)
Common names I nuha, inuka (smelling strongly Malila), African mint.
Description An erect herb or shrub having simple
leaves. The purple or blue flowers are produced in
terminal heads.
Ecology A normally infrequent herb found in high
altitude bush/ grassland flowering in June and July.
I n some localities, for example around I tundu, it is
fairly common. Found from West Africa to
Zimbabwe and in Mozambique.
Uses Bees were seen collecting nectar in July at
I tundu.
I nuha growing in bush on Mt. Mbogo
References Agnew 1974, Cribb & Leedal
1982, Paton 1997
A large clay jar used for water storage, cooking or beer making
114
Helianthus annuus
(Asteraceae)
Common names Amabangayeye (Malila), alizeti (Swahili), sunflower
Description An annual plant
with
large
flowers.
The
common large sunflower can
grow to 150 - 240 cm tall with
flower heads up to 35 cm
across. Dwarf varieties grow to
120 cm high. Sunflowers are
deep rooted.
Ecology
An
extremely
adaptable plant. I t thrives in
the tropics at medium and
high elevations. I n East Africa
it is grown from sea level to
2,590 m provided rainfall is
more than 750 mm annually. A
dry period is necessary during
the later stages of ripening.
Dwarf varieties are hardier and
give reasonable yields under
less than 25 cm rain per
annum but rainfall should be
evenly distributed during the
growing season. Sunflower
grows on many soil types of
moderate fertility. Does well
on light, rich, calcareous soils
with pH range from 6 - 7.5.
The crop requires fertile soil
and is best planted with
fertilizers if available.
Propagation
and
management Seed is planted
Sunflower growing near I zumbwe
2 - 3 cm deep in November.
Birds can cause considerable
damage to the maturing crop.
To avoid loss of seed the
flower heads can be cut before
the seeds are quite ripe and
exposed face up to dry.
Uses Sunflowers are an important bee forage and worth planting for this reason. The honey tends to
granulate rapidly and has a mild but characteristic taste, similar to butter. Bees are important for
pollination and have been found to increase yields of seed. Seed set is often poor where the number of
bees is low. I t is recommended that there should be 1 – 2 hives per ha. Dried green stems and leaves
make good bee smoker fuel. The large seeds can be roasted, salted and eaten. They are also used as
poultry food. The crop is grown mainly to produce seed for edible oil extraction. Oil content may be 40 52% of shelled seed. Poor grades are used for making soap. The petals yield a yellow dye.
References Smith 1960, Watt & Breyer- Brandwijk 1962, Morton 1964, Godin & Spensley 1971, Acland
1977, Howes 1979, Crane et al 1984, Crane & Walker 1984, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Jones 1999, Raemaekers
2001
115
Helichrysum foetidum
(Asteraceae)
Common names I nzumba (Malila), straw flower.
Description An erect, hairy biennial
having a strong smell and growing from 30
cm to 1 m tall. Stem may be single or
having a few branches. Leaves are spear
shaped to oblong 4 - 9 cm long and 1 – 2.5
cm wide. The plant bears golden yellow
flowering heads with glossy papery flowers.
Heads are saucer shaped and 10 mm
across. Growth is rapid.
Ecology Common in open grassland in
Umalila. Also present in disturbed places in
dry upland forest, on forest margins and in
damp sites along streams from South Africa
to East Africa, Sudan, Ethiopia, Congo and
Nigeria. Also present in Spain and Arabia.
Propagation Helichrysum species can be
grown from seed or shoot cuttings, 7 cm
long, preferably with a heel.
Uses Reported to be visited by bees in
Umalila. Bees collect pollen and nectar
from other Helichrysum species. Elsewhere
in Tanzania the roots are used to treat eye
troubles and the leaves are used to treat
influenza. I n South Africa the leaves are applied to circumcision and septic wounds.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Kokwaro 1976, Blundell 1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994, van Wyk
& Gericke 2000, Kihwele et al. 2001, Burrows & Willis 2005, Nonkululeko 2005
Children carting un-burnt building bricks in I lembo
116
Heteromorpha arborescens
(Apiaceae)
Synonym H. abyssinica, H. trifoliata
Common names I lelengu (Malila), parsley tree, parsnip tree
Description A straggling, open-branched shrub or small tree up to 7 m high. Bark is reddish brown to
purplish brown, smooth, waxy in appearance, peeling in papery flakes. Leaves are alternate, compound,
glossy, light green or grey green, becoming yellow to red, having 3 – 9 leaflets arranged in an unusual
and variable manner. Flowers are small, greenish white or yellowish, often strong smelling in dense
round heads, up to 5 cm in diameter. Fruits are formed in two parts which split away from each other.
These are flattened, rather heart shaped, 5 – 7 mm long, drying to creamy brown.
Ecology Occurs at medium to high altitudes and frequently found at the edges of evergreen forest,
wooded ravines, on hillsides and rocky outcrops from Sudan and Ethiopia to southern Africa and into
Angola and Namibia. I t grows to a tree in high rainfall areas. Found in moist plateau or mountain
grassland in Malawi.
Uses Bees were active at midday on a tree near Maendeleo during April. The plant is used in Tanzania
to expel intestinal worms. An infusion of the root mixed with other plants is drunk to cure colds and also
to treat venereal disease in Malawi. I n South Africa an infusion of the leaves is prepared as an enema to
treat abdominal disorders and given as a remedy for mental and nervous conditions. A leaf preparation
is given to children for intestinal worms. The smoke from burning wood is inhaled to relieve headaches.
A decoction of the peeled root is used to treat breathlessness, coughs and dysentery. The fruits contain
a volatile oil. This has shown definite anti-bacterial and anti-fungal activity.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Wild et al. 1972, Williamson 1975, Coates Palgrave 1983,
Blundell 1987, Van Wyk et al. 1997, Neuwinger 2000, Van Wyk & Gericke 2000, White et al. 2001
117
Hibiscus diversifolius
(Malvaceae)
Common names I wawa
Description A shrub up to 3 m high covered with
short red thorns. Flowers may be deep purple or
yellow with a red or purple centre and about 5 cm in
diameter, flowering in June and July. The woody,
shrubby habit distinguishes this plant from Hibiscus
cannabis.
Ecology Found in field margins and roadsides in
Umalila. Grows in scrub or forest in West Africa and
is widely dispersed throughout Africa. Hibiscus
species grow best between altitudes of 1,800 and
2,100 m.
Propagation Cultivated ornamental species grow
easily from cuttings. For shrubby species take 10 cm
cuttings having a heel.
Hibiscus diversifolius flowering in June
Uses The flower petals are used as a vegetable,
called Ukurugwa in Umalila. They are eaten with
beans, after the black base has been removed. The
plant is sometimes grown as a hedge. The stem is a
source of hemp or jute fibre for mat making. Bees collect nectar and are known to forage for pollen and
nectar from the flowers of many species of Hibiscus. The woody parts are used as fire sticks in Malawi.
Bruised leaves are used to
ease the pain from stings. A
tea made from leaves and
twigs is taken for bronchitis
and chronic coughing. The sap
of leafy twigs is drunk for
yaws. The Swati people use a
decoction of the root and
flower for pneumonia. Sheep
and goats eat the leaves.
References Jex - Blake 1957,
Watt
&
Breyer-Brandwijk
1962, Wilson 1967, Agnew
1974, Williamson 1975, Hay
1978, Wilson 1978, Fichtl &
Adi
1994,
Burkill
1997,
Neuwinger 2000
Hibiscus diversifolius grown as a hedge
118
Hibiscus ludw igii
(Malvaceae)
Synonym H. macranthus
Common names I wawa
Description Usually a small shrub up to 3 m high, with erect branches but sometimes grows larger
producing trailing branches. The plant is covered with sharp irritating hairs that break off in the skin.
Leaves are alternate. The pale yellow flowers are large and usually borne singly. They have a purple
base. The flowers droop and sometimes never open fully. The closed flower is about 6 cm long. Flowers
are produced in April.
Ecology Common between altitudes of 1,520 and 2,440 m in cleared forest grassland throughout
Tanzania, except Songea, and also present in Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Malawi, Zimbabwe and
in the highlands of Cameroon.
Uses Bees are reported to visit the flowers in Umalila. Bees collect pollen and nectar from this plant in
Ethiopia. The stem fibre is used in Uganda. A preparation of the root is used in Rwanda to treat
anthrax.
References Blundell 1987, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Burkill 1997, Neuwinger 2000
119
Hypericum quartinianum
(Clusiaceae)
Common names Tandankwari
Description A shrub growing to 4.5 m tall. The lower stems are woody and tawny brown while the
young shoots are 4 angled. Leaves are opposite, up to 8 cm long by 2.2 cm wide and when young are
tinged with red. They have black dots on the edges and glands on their upper surface. The yellow
flowers are borne in a cluster and are 5 – 8 cm across. Flowers are produced from May to September.
Leaves, glossy green.
Ecology Usually found in rocky places, gulleys and on river banks in deciduous woodland or in upland
grassland. Grows up to an altitude 2,800 m. Present from Ethiopia to northern Malawi.
Propagation Can be grown from root suckers and 12 cm cuttings. Seed germination is poor.
Uses Reported as a bee forage in Umalila. I n the upland forests of Kenya and in Ethiopia Hypericum
species are important bee forage plants, especially for pollen as they flower over a long period.
Branches are used for fuel in some areas.
References Smith 1956, Cribb & Leedal 1983, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Hepburn & Radloff 1998
120
Hypericum revolutum subsp. revolutum
(Clusiaceae)
Synonym H. lanceolatum
Common names Giant St. John’s wort, curry bush
Description Much
branched shrub or
small tree 1 – 6 m
tall. The plant has
an open crown and
the branches often
droop. Bark is dark
brown and corky
and often fissured.
Leaves
are
opposite,
pale
green,
narrowly
elliptic to
lance
shaped up to 20 30 mm long and
2.5 - 6 mm wide,
produced in dense
clusters on short
shoots, with many
scattered,
transparent
oilglands.
Leaves
have a curry-like smell after rain or when crushed. Flowers are solitary, terminal, up to 4 - 5 cm in
diameter with petals 25 – 30 mm long. Fruits are woody 5 valved capsules, containing many small black
seeds. Flowers are produced all year round.
Ecology A characteristic tree of the Afromontane rain forests and evergreen bushland, found from 1800
– 2900 m, especially along the upper tree limit and often associated with Hageni-Schefflera forest.
Present from Cameroon to Ethiopia and to South Africa and also in Saudi Arabia, Comoro islands and
Madagascar. I t is an early invader of fire protected grassland in Malawi.
Propagation Can be grown from root suckers and 12 cm cuttings. Seed germination is poor.
Uses Wood is dark red-brown, fairly hard but flexible and popular for making house poles and yokes for
ox-ploughs in Ethiopia. The flowers are an important bee forage. Bees collect both pollen and nectar
and the honey produced is of good quality. The tree is recommended for planting for bees. Powdered
dried leaves and stems are used to treat diarrhoea and rheumatism in East Africa. The plant has a
number of medicinal uses in Burundi and in Ethiopia the leaves are cooked and eaten with meat to
safeguard against stomach upsets. The shrub is sometimes planted as an ornamental. I t has also been
used as a source of balsam.
References Smith 1956, FZ 1961, Wild 1972, Brummitt 1973, Blundell 1987, Burkill 1994, Fichtl & Adi
1994, Bryant 1996, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, Neuwinger 2000, White et al. 2001, Dharani 2002,
Burrows & Willis 2005
121
Hypoestes triflora
(Acanthaceae)
Common names I nswina ilinsi
Description A straggling annual plant, very variable
in size, but often growing to a height of 50 cm.
Leaves are borne on short stalks. The pale mauve or
white flowers are produced in groups of three and are
2.5 cm. long; each flower has two stamens. Seen
flowering in October and November in Umalila.
Ecology Grows in forest shade and beside footpaths
and waterways at altitudes between 1,200 and 3,050
m in East Africa, Rwanda, Ethiopia and Malawi.
Uses Reported as a good bee plant at Yalenga. Bees
frequently collect pollen and large quantities of nectar
in Ethiopia. Used as a wound dressing for livestock in
Ethiopia. A leaf extract is drunk to treat jaundice in
Rwanda.
References Blundell 1987, Fichtl & Adi 1994,
Neuwinger 2000
Pitsawers at work near Maendeleo
122
I boza riparia
(Lamiaceae)
Common names I vuguvugu (Malila), ginger bush.
Description
A shrub or
small tree normally growing
to 3 m high. Bark is light
grey to brown, smooth and
sometimes peels when old.
The soft leaves have a
strong smell, are opposite, 7
cm long and 6 cm wide, and
covered with fine dense
hairs on both surfaces. The
leaf margin is toothed.
Leaves have stalks up to 2
mm long. Flowers are very
small, mauve, pink to white,
in
large
dense,
much
branched heads up to 20 cm
long. Male and female
flowers
are
borne
on
different plants. The shrub
grows rapidly.
Ecology Often planted as a
hedge around compounds in
Umalila. I t is found on rocky
outcrops and at the margins
of evergreen forest, often
near
water.
It
grows
between altitudes of 1,400
and 2,400 m. Requires 800
mm or more rain per
annum. The plant prefers
deep well-drained soils. I t is
also planted around fields and
along roadsides and river courses
as a hedge in Rwanda.
Propagation Planted by cuttings
20 - 50 cm long.
Uses Bees were seen collecting
nectar from this plant in July,
though it is said that the quality of
the honey is poor. The leaves are
used as an insecticide and for
mulching. I n Rwanda the plant is
sometimes grown as a wind break
and on contour banks to check
erosion. I n Malawi the plant is said
to be a powerful remedy for
intestinal worms. I n Kenya the
crushed leaf is used against
cataracts by the Pokot. The plant
has many other medicinal uses in
Africa.
References Watt & Breyer - Brandwijk 1962, Williamson 1975, Coates Palgrave 1983, Egli &
Kalinganire 1988, Beentje 1994
123
I lex mitis
(Aquifoliaceae)
Common names I sangati (Malila), African holly,
Cape holly.
Description An evergreen shrub or more usually
a tree growing up to 30 m or higher. Bark is grey
and fairly smooth with dark spots. Leaves are
simple and alternate, the edges saw toothed,
shiny dark green, 3 – 14 cm long and 1 – 5 cm
wide, borne on dark red stalks. Flowers are white
to cream coloured, fragrant and arise in the leaf
axils. Fruit is a round fleshy berry, glossy red
when ripe.
Ecology Common in forest reserves and beside
water in Umalila. Found in moist to dry upland
forests and thickets, also in woodland beside
streams between altitudes of 900 and 3,000 m.
Present from Ethiopia to South Africa.
Propagation Grows easily from seed. Collect
fresh seed and dry in the shade. Sow in a seedbed in a mixture of 1:1 river sand and compost and
cover lightly. Seed germinates after 8 20 days.
Management
Transplant seedlings
into plastic sleeves when they have
two leaves. Seedlings grow easily and
fairly fast. Plant out, preferably beside
running water, and protect from fire
and livestock.
Uses The timber is used for making
good quality, lasting furniture. The
wood darkens with age, after many
years of oiling. I t is also used for tool
handles and for firewood and charcoal.
The flowers are an important source of
honey. Beekeepers recommend that
honey should be collected after
flowering has finished or that the honey should be stored for some time to improve the flavour. I n
Umalila the trunk is used to make beehives. An edible mushroom grows on the rotten trunks of this tree
during the rains. Leaves form a
lather when rubbed in water. The
fruits are eaten and can vary from
being slightly sweet to bitter. The
boiled roots are also reported to be
edible. The bark is used as a mild
purgative in South Africa
References
Watt
&
BreyerBrandwijk 1962, FTEA 1968, Wild
et al. 1972, Bekele-Tessema 1993,
Beentje 1994, Venter & Venter
1996, Hepburn & Radloff 1998,
Forrester 2004, Lovett et al. 2006
124
I mpatiens gomphophylla
(Balsaminaceae)
Common names I mbogwa
Description An erect herb, 1 m tall
occasionally up to 1.5 m. Stems are
usually unbranched or have few
branches. Leaves spirally arranged,
often rather dense. Flowers are borne
in clusters in the leaf axils and vary in
colour from pale yellowish-green to
greenish-orange.
Flowers with
a
yellowish spur and orange or reddish
petals are most common. I n the
Southern Highlands the plant flowers
all year round
Ecology The most widespread and
common I mpatiens species in the
Southern Highlands. I t often grows in
large clumps in grassland. The
specimen photographed was growing
in an old maize field. I t grows in moist,
open or semi shaded places in
grassland or scrub between 1,200 and
2,650 m. Widely distributed in Malawi,
Zambia and southern D.R. Congo.
Left : I mpatiens gomphophylla near
I lembo in May.
Uses Bees like this plant and were
seen collecting nectar in June. The
honey produced is reported to be of
good quality. Other species e.g. I .
glandulifera are useful bee plants
elsewhere.
References Moriarty 1975, Howes 1979, Cribb & Leedal 1982, FTEA 1982, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Burrows
& Willis 2005
Honey labels used to sell honey from Umalila beekeepers
125
I pomoea batatas
(Convolvulaceae)
Common names I mbatata (Malila), sweet potato
Description A perennial, creeping plant, up to 4 m long, which is usually grown as an annual.
Ecology I n Umalila plants are usually grown on hill slopes rather than in valley bottoms. Planting is
done in June and December. Growth is restricted by cool weather. Low humidity is needed as the crop
nears maturity. Though the plant is drought tolerant there must be sufficient moisture for 50 - 60 days
after planting for tuber development. Sweet potatoes grow best in sandy loams, reasonably high in
organic matter.
Propagation I t is best to use cuttings taken
from the growing tip of the vines as they
grow faster and give a higher yield than
cuttings taken from the base or middle.
Cuttings should be 20 - 45 cm long and have
7 nodes. They should be left to wilt for 24 48 hours and then 10 - 20 cm of the cutting
should be planted below the soil level at an
angle. Space at 23 - 30 cm in the rows, and
60 - 75 cm between rows.
Management Harvest the crop when the
leaves turn yellow and the tuber can be cut
without the sap rapidly turning black. Tubers
cannot be stored so are best dug when
required.
Uses Tubers are baked, boiled or fried.
Chips may be dried in the sun and then ground into flour. There are three main types 1) Dry and mealy
when cooked. 2) Soft and watery. 3) Coarse fleshed. The young shoots and leaves of the last two are
eaten as vegetables. Vines can also be used as a livestock feed. Bees sometimes collect nectar from the
flowers.
Reference Kay 1973
126
I pomoea cairica
(Convolvulaceae)
Common names Kiazi pori (Swahili), railway creeper, ipomée du Caire (Fr.)
Description A perennial herb which grows up to 5 m long from a tuberous rootstock. Stems twine up
other plants or grow along the ground. Leaves are divided into 5 – 7 lobes, 3 – 10 cm long on a petiole
2 – 6 cm long. The leaf lobes are narrow and are up to 4 cm long. Outer lobes often split again. Flowers
are funnel shaped, usually pale pink to mauve but can be white with a darker throat. Fruit is a round
capsule up to 1.2 cm across, papery brown, containing several black, hairy seeds.
Ecology The plant was present in hedgerows at I zumbwe village. I t also grows in clearings in forests,
swampy grassland and on lake shores and waste or cultivated land from 750 – 1,890 m. I t is found
throughout East Africa and from Ethiopia to Zimbabwe. I t is present in many countries throughout the
tropics and is an invasive plant.
Propagation Can be grown from seed or rooting stems.
Management Can be trained on a trellis and used as a screen.
Uses Bees were seen collecting nectar and pollen in Umalila. I pomoea species are known to produce
important amounts of nectar and pollen. Elsewhere in Tanzania the leaves are collected, partially dried
in the sun, and then cooked alone or mixed with other vegetables and served with the staple food. The
leaves can be fed to pigs, guinea pigs, cows, goats and rabbits. The dried leaves can be stored. I n
Ghana stem fibres are used to make sponges. The tubers and stems are used as food in Hawaii but are
both slightly cyanogenic. Seeds are used as a strong purgative in Nigeria and I ndia. The plant has
considerable antibiotic action though this varies between plants. I n I ndia an essential oil, extracted from
the plant, was found effective in controlling several species of mosquito. The plant can be grown as an
ornamental.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Crane et al. 1984, Burkill 1985, Blundell 1987, Phillips &
Rix 1997, Ruffo et al. 2002, Llamas 2003, Thomas et al. 2004
127
I pomoea involucrata
(Convolvulaceae)
Common names I sindu
Description A slender
but vigorous, sprawling
or twining annual or
perennial
herb.
The
slender stems grow to 8
m long. Leaves are up to
9 cm long, occasionally
11 cm, and 7 cm wide,
hairy on both surfaces.
Flowers
are
funnel
shaped with a purple,
rose, white or white-pink
throat.
Ecology
Found
in
grassland, woodland and
in abandoned cultivation;
altitude range 100 –
2,700 m in East Africa,
Zambia and Zimbabwe.
I pomoea involucrata in cleared forest at Songwe
Propagation Soak seeds for 24 hours before
planting. The plant can also be grown from
softwood or semi-ripe cuttings.
Uses I n Umalila a fibre from the stems is used to
make string and the bitter root is used to relieve
wind. The plant has a number of other medicinal
uses. Bees were seen collecting pollen and nectar
from this plant and from I . wightii. Some
I pomoea species flower nearly all the year round.
These produce pearly white honey of a delicate
flavour. Leaves of this and some related species
are edible. I n Nigeria the plant is used as a
ground cover and can be grown as a screen over
a suitable frame.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, FTEA 1963,
Hay 1978, Crane et al. 1984, Burkill 1985, Blundell 1987,
Brickell 1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Martin et al. 1998,
Neuwinger 2000
Left : A basket made from bamboo strips tied together with
fibre from I pomoea involucrata.
128
I pomoea tricolor
(Convolvulaceae)
Common names Lusisia (Malila), morning glory.
Description A stout, perennial, twining plant growing up to 2.4 m or more. The thin stems carry pale
green, heart shaped leaves. This species flowers freely, the flowers opening in the morning and then
fading in the afternoon.
Ecology Often grows in recently cleared forest land and in hedgerows in Umalila. The plant originates
in Mexico. This is the most commonly cultivated Morning glory in many countries.
Propagation As for I pomoea involucrata.
Uses A useful bee forage and widely grown as an ornamental. The stems are used for tying.
References Hay 1978, Burkill 1985
129
I soglossa eliasbandae
(Acanthaceae)
Common names I nswina ipete
Description A robust herb with markedly
ribbed leaves growing up to 2 m tall. Flowers
have two lips. I t is an uncommon plant.
Ecology An under-storey shrub in woodland.
Also present in Malawi.
Left : I soglossa eliasbandae in flower in July
near I lembo.
Uses Reported as a bee forage plant in
Umalila producing good quality honey. A
related species, I . deliculata, produces a heavy
nectar flow over a short period of time in
South Africa. Honey produced is mild but has
a characteristic flavour. Two other species
yield nectar and pollen in Ethiopia.
References Agnew 1974, Crane et al. 1984, Fichtl.
& Adi 1994
Tabia and Mwaji collecting leaves of Cleome gynandra in a garden at I lembo
130
Jasminum abyssinicum
(Oleaceae)
Common names I sanzo
Description A climbing shrub
with stems growing up to 7 m
long. Leaves are opposite,
dark green and shiny and
composed of 3 leaflets. The
terminal leaflet is larger than
the other two, being 2 – 7.5
cm long and 1.5 – 5.5 cm
wide. Flowers are produced in
large numbers and are white
or yellow white, sometimes
pink on the outside. They are
borne at the ends of branches
or on lateral shoots, solitary or
in clusters of a few flowers,
and have a strong sweet
smell.
Ecology Found at the edges
of upland evergreen forest and
in
mountain
bushland,
especially near flowing water.
The plant sometimes grows
over
fences
around
compounds.
Propagation Jasminum species can be grown from seed or semi-ripe cuttings. Plants can also be
grown by layering.
Uses Stems are used in Umalila for tying the frame in hut construction. The Maasai use the roots to
make soup and the stems as string in building huts. I n Umalila bees have been reported to visit the
flowers. I n Ethiopia bees are reported to visit occasionally. The roots are used to dress wounds in
animals in Ethiopia. I n Rwanda the leaf extract is drunk for constipation. I n Burundi a leaf decoction is
used to wash with for dizziness and a decoction of leafy twigs is drunk for insanity or possession. I n
East Africa the roots or leaves are steeped in water and the liquid drunk to treat snake-bite.
References Hessayon 1993, Beentje 1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Bown 1995, Hepburn & Radloff 1998,
Neuwinger 2000
Grain stores on a farm at
I zumbwe. The store on
the left was for maize
and that on the right for
finger millet.
131
Jasminum goetzeanum
(Oleaceae)
Common names I wovi, impyuyu
Description A much branched,
usually evergreen shrub at the
edges of forest, though becoming a
strong woody climber inside the
forest, 2 – 6 m tall. Leaves are
spirally arranged, compound, being
composed of 5 leaflets. The flowers
are borne terminally and are
composed of up to 12 yellow,
scented flowers.
Ecology Found in upland grassland
and in mountain forest between
1,440 – 2,430 m. Also present in
Kenya, D. R. Congo, Zambia and
Malawi.
Uses Bees are reported to visit the
flowers. Jasmine species are known
to be visited by bees in some dry
areas.
Jasminum goetzeanum growing at the edge of I soho forest
References FTEA 1952, Hepburn &
Radloff 1998, White et al. 2001
Nyasalandi Nayomo
climbing to inspect one of
his 13 hives.
132
Justicia diclipteroides
(Acanthaceae)
Common names I nswina
Description A trailing herb which
roots at the nodes. I t has
scattered purple to pink flowers
about 8 mm across in the upper
leaf axils.
Ecology Common in evergreen
forest edges between altitudes of
1,220 and 2,130 m.
Uses Bees were active on the
flowers collecting nectar in the
early morning. Justicia species are
known to be important bee forage
plants in several climatic zones in
Africa. The plant is eaten by
livestock.
Left : Justicia diclipteroides
flowering in May near Maendeleo.
Remarks
Three species of
Justicia are useful bee plants in
Ethiopia. The young leaves of a
further three species are used as
vegetables in Malawi.
References
Agnew
1974,
Williamson 1975, Blundell 1994,
Fichtl & Adi 1994, Hepburn &
Radloff 1998
Neema Yisambi with her favourite
heifer Samboya. I f stall fed with
Napier or Guatemala grass in the dry
season, when grazing is hard to find,
improved dairy cattle could provide
the family with much more milk. I f
fodder grasses were planted on the
contours this could reduce the
amount of soil lost through erosion.
Cattle manure appears to be seldom
used in Umalila but could improve
yields of vegetables and fruit trees
around the home.
133
Kalanchoe lateritia
(Crassulaceae)
Common names I vata
Description A succulent perennial, from 20 cm to 1.5 m high. Leaves are simple and borne on short
stalks on the main stem. They are up to 16 cm long and 8 cm wide. Flowers are borne in small terminal
heads and may be red, reddish orange, salmon pink or pale yellow. Each flower is about 15 mm across.
Ecology Plants were seen
growing beside a track and in
woodland
near
Shilanga.
Present in deciduous and
semi deciduous bushland,
thicket and scrub, on sandy
soil, rocky ground or on rocks
up to an altitude of 2,000 m
throughout Tanzania and in
bush-grassland in western
Kenya, D.R. Congo, Rwanda,
Malawi,
Zimbabwe
and
Mozambique.
Propagation Stem cuttings,
offsets or leaf cuttings root
easily.
Left : Plant in flower at the
end of October near
Shilanga.
Uses The leaves are heated
and placed on painful swellings. The juice is squeezed from the dried leaves of Kalanchoe species and
applied to septic wounds. I n Ethiopia other Kalanchoe species are occasionally visited by bees.
Remarks Another
species K. densiflora,
known
as I tivwa
(Malila)
is
widespread
above
1,800 m in the
Southern Highlands.
I t is found in flower
between August and
November.
Right :
Kalanchoe
densiflora growing in
forest
References Kokwaro 1976, Cribb & Leedal 1983, Blundell 1987, FTEA 1987, Fichtl & Adi 1994
134
Keetia gueinzii
(Rubiaceae)
Synonym Canthium gueinzii, C. hispidum
Common names Nyongampembe (Malila), climbing Canthium
Description A scrambling shrub or climber, from 3
to 25 m tall. Bark is dark to almost black and the
branches are long and trailing. Young branches may
be densely covered with golden to rust covered
hairs. Leaves are opposite entire, oblong 5.5 – 13.5
cm long by 3.5 – 6.0 mm wide, slightly hairy above
and more densely below. Flowers are sweet
smelling, creamy white, and borne in dense clusters
of 20 to 50 flowers. Fruit is black when ripe and has
one seed.
Ecology Grows in forest and woodland often on
swampy ground. Altitude range 90 – 2,450 m.
Found from Cameroon to Ethiopia and south to
eastern Cape. The plant is widespread in
Malawi. I n Kenya it is found at the coast on
moist forest margins, secondary bushland
and in riverine forest.
Right : The unripe fruit on a bush growing
beside the road.
Uses Fruit is edible but rather sour. Bees
are reported to visit the flowers.
References Coates Palgrave 1983, FTEA
1991, Beentje 1994, White et al. 2001,
Burrows & Willis 2005
135
Kniphofia princeae
(Liliaceae)
Common names I susumba (Malila), red
hot poker.
Description An evergreen plant, from 1.3
to 3 m tall, growing from a rhizome. I t
forms clumps of tough, narrow, tapering
leaves, which are 1.8 – 2 m long. The
flower head is borne on an erect stem, up
to 2.5 m tall, above the leaves. The small
tubular flowers are orange and long
lasting.
Left : Knipofia princae flowering beside a
stream in May
Ecology Grows in grassland or mountain
scrub, on forest margins and in damp
areas often beside running water. Altitude
range is from 1,800 to 2,300 m. The plant
often grows in partial shade. Also present
in northern Malawi.
Propagation By seed or more usually by
division at the start of the rains. Divided
plants come into flower much more quickly.
Uses Bees visit the flowers. I n Ethiopia bees collect only pollen from several Kniphofia species. I n
Umalila the leaves are formed into a cushion for carrying head loads. I n Malawi the leaf fibres are used
to make a strong cord. Other species are used medicinally in South Africa. The flowers are sucked for
sweetness by children.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Williamson 1975, Brickell 1987, Fichtl & Adi 1994,
Johannsmeier & Allsopp 1995, Stern 2002, Burrows & Willis 2005
Brassica oleracea in a plot of Solanum umalilaense in flower
136
Kotschya recurvifolia
(Fabaceae)
Common names I ntenga
Kotschya recurvifolia is often found in dense clumps in grassland. Photo taken near I nyala.
Description
A very variable, erect, much
branched, aromatic shrub up to 4 m tall. The
plant is covered with yellow to whitish sticky,
hairs. Leaves are compound with 8 – 18 leaflets
which are curved at the tips. Flowers are borne in
dense masses, are golden yellow and covered
with golden bristly hairs. The pods are hairy and
the seeds greenish to dark red-brown.
Ecology I t is one of the dominant plants of
upland grassland above 1,800 m in Umalila. Also
present in moorland, bamboo forest, forest
glades, at forest edges and in secondary thickets.
Present in Ethiopia and south to Malawi and
Zambia.
Uses A valuable bee forage, yielding nectar
throughout the day during May and June. The
stems make good firewood which does not
produce much smoke. Finger millet is commonly
planted on land cleared from Kotschya recurvifolia
as it is reported to improve soil fertility.
References Cribb & Leedal 1982, Beentje 1994, FZ 2000, Burrows & Willis 2005
137
Lagenaria sphaerica
(Cucurbitaceae)
Synonym L. mascarena, Luffa sphaerica
Common names
I tungururu (Malila), wild
calabash.
Description
A perennial
herb with a woody rootstock
and annual climbing or
trailing stems, up to 10 m
long or longer, sometimes
completely leafless when
fruiting. Leaves are rather
rigid, shaped like a hand,
margins toothed, 5 - 18 cm
long, both surfaces have
rough, short hairs. Leaf
stalks are 2 - 8 cm long. The
tendrils split in two. Flowers
are fragrant, opening in the
evenings. They are velvetywhite
or
creamy-white
coloured with green veins
and rounded petals, 2.2 - 6 cm long; male and female flowers are on separate plants. Male flowers are
in groups of 2 – 10. Female flowers are solitary and stalked. The flowers are large and open in the
evening. The fruits, which are found throughout the year, hang from a stout stalk and are 6 -10 cm
across, deep-green with pale-green or yellowish, slightly raised patches. They have a hard shell and
whitish flesh and have a foul smell when ripe. Seeds are white to yellowish, oblong-triangular in outline,
flattened, 1 – 1.5 cm long.
Ecology Grows over hedges in villages in Umalila. Found naturally in tropical and southern Africa from
Somalia down to the Western Cape; it also grows in Madagascar. The plant grows in full sun and semishade in forest margins, on river banks and in dry river beds. I t is usually found in well-drained loam
and stony, sandy soils. The flowers are produced throughout the year, but mainly from December to
May. I n southern Africa it grows from about sea level to an altitude of 915 m, in both dry and wet areas
with an annual rainfall of 200 - 1,200 mm. The flowers are visited by bees, ants and flies.
Propagation The wild calabash can be grown from
seed.
Management The plant requires support often growing
over trees, shrubs or fences.
Uses I n Umalila the fruit is skinned, cut up and used as
a soap substitute for washing clothes. I n Malawi the
leaves are sometimes cooked and eaten as a vegetable.
The plant has various medicinal uses. I n South Africa an
infusion of the leaves or roots, together with those of
Bidens pilosa, is either drunk or administered as an
enema for stomach-ache. The fruit is used to treat
glandular swellings. A decoction of the pounded root is
used for treating swellings thought to be caused by blood disorders.
References Watt & Breyer- Brandwijk 1962, Williamson 1975, Neuwinger 2000, Welman 2004
138
Landolphia buchananii
(Apocynaceae)
Synonym L.
kilimanjarica
swynnertonii,
L.
Common names I lonji (Malila),
mbungo (Swahili), rubber vine
Description A woody shrub or
climber, 6 - 20 m long, the stem
being deeply furrowed and dark
brown. Hooked tendrils may be
present, which branch at the tip.
Leaves are glossy green above,
opposite, 5 – 12 cm long and
narrow, with an elongated blunt tip.
Flowers are fragrant, yellow to
white with touches of red or orange
in terminal heads of 5 – 10 flowers.
Petals overlap to the left. Fruit is a
round green berry, 4 – 10 cm in
diameter with a hard white spotted
skin. Ten or more seeds are
embedded in the juicy pulp.
Left : Plant flowering in November
near Sasyaka village.
Ecology Common in rainforest,
normally at medium altitudes up to
1,600 m. Plants produce more fruits
on the forest edges. Present in
West Africa, Congo basin to Kenya,
Uganda and Ethiopia and
south to Zimbabwe.
Propagation
grown
from
cuttings.
Can
seed
be
or
Uses I n Umalila the fruits
are collected from the tree
or from the ground, cut
open and the seeds and
pulp
eaten.
Bees are
reported
to
visit
the
flowers. Young stems are
used for tying, particularly
when constructing the roof
of a house.
References Beentje 1994,
White et al. 2001, Ruffo et
al. 2002, Burrows & Willis
2005
139
Lantana viburnoides
(Verbenaceae)
Common names I sawi
Description A lemon scented shrub or woody herb up to 1 m high.
Ecology The plant was growing beside the road at approximately 2,000 m. but is most commonly
found in the drier parts of tropical and sub-tropical Africa and also present in Arabia and I ndia.
Uses Bees were collecting nectar in April. Other Lantana species are visited by bees in Ethiopia. Fruit
and leaves are edible. I n Tanzania the leaves are soaked in water which is then taken to relieve
coughing. Leaves are also pounded to a paste and rubbed on the stomach to relieve stomach-ache.
Cooked leaves, after cooling, are applied to sores on the legs. I n Kenya the presence of this plant is
thought to indicate a good millet growing site.
References Peters et al 1992, Burkill 2000, Neuwinger 2000,
Lantana camara
growing as a hedge
at Shilanga.
140
Leonotis ocymifolia
(Lamiaceae)
Common names I fipa
Description An erect plant, commonly growing
2 – 3 m high, in large clumps. The stems are
covered with short hairs and the leaves, up to
14 cm long, are densely felted underneath. The
flowers are in compact heads, 6 - 8 cm across,
and produced in the upper nodes of the stem.
The flowers are reddish or orange-red and palecream. Each flower has 4 stamens, the
uppermost being the longest and arching under
the upper lip of the flower. The plant flowers
from June onwards in southern Tanzania.
Ecology Commonly grows in bush-land or in
open areas in woodland above 1,950 m. Also
found in eastern Uganda, Zambia, Malawi,
Zimbabwe and Mozambique.
Uses Leonotis species are known to be a source
of nectar and pollen. The flowers are often
sucked for their nectar by children or, in
Uganda, are cooked as a vegetable. A leaf tea is
used medicinally in Namibia to treat coughing
and to purify the blood. I n South Africa the leaf
tea is used to relieve hypertension and to treat
colds and headache. I n Sudan a warmed decoction
of the leaves is drunk to relieve fever and gastrointestinal pain. Pounded roots and leaves are added
to the drinking water of cattle and poultry to treat
gall bladder problems and general sickness.
References Watt & Breyer-Bradwijk 1962, Goode
1974, Cribb & Leedal 1982, Blundell 1987, Fichtl &
Adi 1994, Neuwinger 2000, van Wyk & Gericke
2000, White et al. 2001, Burrows & Willis 2005
Left : L. myricifolia is also present and bees were
seen collecting nectar on a windy day in July.
141
Lobelia gibberoa
(Campanulaceae)
Common names I woti, piriti, idudwi (Malila), cardinal flower.
Description A perennial herb growing
up to 9 m tall, when in flower, with
erect, usually unbranched stems, though
they are sometimes branched near the
base. A white latex is present in the
stem which has an unpleasant smell.
Leaves are narrow, spear shaped with a
pointed tip, 25 – 90 cm long and 4 – 19
cm wide. Flowers are greenish with a
purple or blue tinge on stalks up to 2 m
long. The plant flowers after several
years’ growth.
Ecology
Grows on the margin of
primary and secondary forest, in swamp
or riverside forest, and at the edges of
bamboo thicket. I t prefers partial shade
and adequate moisture. Also present on
Mt. Kilimanjaro and in Kenya, Burundi
and Rwanda.
Lobelia gibberoa growing in I tega forest near I lomba
Propagation Can be grown from seed.
Uses Bees collect nectar from the flowers. I n
Rwanda the leaf extract is gargled for angina.
I n Burundi a leaf infusion is used as a
purgative enema. A leaf decoction or leaf sap
is drunk for intestinal parasites but this is
known to be very dangerous. A leaf decoction
is used as an enema for tapeworms. A root
decoction is drunk as a tonic for pregnant
women and to expel the placenta.
Remarks The honey produced from this plant
is known to be poisonous. The latex has a
sharp nauseating smell and eating a minute
amount causes violent vomiting.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962,
Cribb & Leedal 1982, Beentje 1994,
Neuwinger 2000, Burrows & Willis 2005
Left : Lobelia gibberoa in flower
142
Lopholaena dolichopappa
(Asteraceae)
Common names Popoti ndongo
Lopholaena dolichopappa in flower in grassland near Shilanga
Description A low growing, semi-succulent, shrubby herb from 30 to 60 cm high arising from a
perennial woody rootstock. The stems are trailing to erect, becoming woody with age. The narrow
leaves are sessile, 1.5 – 6.0 cm long and 0.3 – 1.5 cm wide. The solitary flowers are 1.2 – 7 cm long
and borne in the leaf axils or terminally on lateral branches. They have 3 – 6 white florets, sometimes
tinged lilac, which have purple anthers.
Ecology Widespread in the Southern Highlands. Found in rocky grassland where it may be common
after burning. Also in bushland with Protea sp. Present in Malawi and Zambia.
Uses I n Umalila the roots are used to reduce temperature. The leaves are also put in water and the
liquid drunk for the same purpose. Kinga people use the plant as a cure for snake bite.
References Cribb & Leedal 1982, Burrows & Willis 2005, FTEA 2005
143
Maerua decumbens
(Capparaceae)
Synonym M. subcordata, M. edulis, Courbania glauca
Common names Utupa
Description A bushy shrub growing to 2.4 m, occasionally to 3 m high. Often several stems arise from
the tuberous rootstock. Leaves are stalked, greyish-green, leathery, alternate, oval or round,
approximately 3 cm long. The solitary yellow or whitish flowers have a wavy, feathery appearance and
arise in the axils of the upper leaves. They often close slightly during the heat of the day and are 20
mm across, on stalks as long as the leaves. The fruit is up to 3 cm long borne on a long stalk. Ripe
fruits are yellow or orange, 20 mm in diameter.
Ecology Found at altitudes up to 1,850 m throughout East Africa. Also present in Sudan, Ethiopia,
Somalia and Zimbabwe. Found in dry bush-land and open areas in vegetation beside water. Common in
sandy areas, on light clay soils and rocky sites in Kenya.
Uses The fruit pulp and seeds are edible, as is the root, which is chewed as a stimulant. The root is
also used to control insect pests being washed, peeled, chopped and dried in the sun before being
ground to powder. A pinch of powder is then put in the funnel of the maize plant to control stalk-borer.
The dried root powder is also used to control maize pests in store. A decoction of the roots is drunk as a
treatment for syphilis and gonorrhoea, the leaf pulp is used as a dressing for rheumatism and a
decoction of the roots and bark is used to treat eye diseases in East Africa. The roots are boiled and
mixed with broth to promote health and strength in Kenya. Freshly sliced pieces of root thrown into
muddy water will make it clear. The plant can be used as a fodder for goats in the dry season, if eaten
sparingly. I n Ethiopia bees forage on a related species, M. angolensis.
References Glover et al. 1966, Wild et al. 1972, Kokwaro 1976, Blundell 1987, Peters et al. 1992, Fichtl
& Adi 1994, Maundu et al. 1999
144
Maesa lanceolata
(Myrcinaceae)
Common names I nkuti
Description
A
straggling shrub or tree
growing to over 20 m
high. The leaves are
simple and alternate
and sometimes produce
an
orange-red
resin
when
broken.
The
petiole is 1.4 – 4 cm
long. Leaves are from 6
to 22 cm long and 2 to
11 cm wide. Flowers are
very small, white to pale
yellow, sweet scented in
branched
axillary
panicles. Fruit is a
yellow-brown to red
berry 0.3 – 0.6 cm in
diameter.
Ecology
Maesa lanceolata bearing fruit in November
Grows
in
mountainous
forested
areas and at the edges
of forest. Present in
much of tropical and
southern Africa and in Madagascar and the Arabian peninsula.
Propagation I t is reported that the tree can be grown from seed.
Uses
The
scented
flowers are reported to
be visited by bees. I n
Tanzania the white, soft
wood
is
used
for
firewood, charcoal and
tool handles and in
Kenya and Malawi as
hut poles. The fruits or
seeds are used as a
medicine for stomach
worms. Roots are used
to treat stomach-ache,
jaundice
and
sore
throat. A decoction of
boiled roots is taken for
convulsions in children
by the Hehe people.
Fruits are used to treat
guinea worm in Malawi.
I n Uganda the shrub is
sometimes grown as a
Photo : Hugh Glen
hedge in damp places.
The bark has a sharp
taste and is used in Kenya to make a stimulating drink. Fruits are reported to be sweet. I n South Africa
slightly warmed leaves are rubbed on wounds and sprains. A decoction of the decorticated root is used
as an emetic to treat biliousness and the powdered fruit or seeds are used to prepare a remedy for
intestinal worms in humans and livestock.
References Williamson 1975, Kokwaro 1976, Coates Palgrave 1983, Beentje 1994, Burkill 1997, Glen &
Ngwenya 2005, Lovett et al. 2006
145
Maytenus undata
(Celastraceae)
Common names I zorote, mpwagili (Malila), koko tree.
Description A shrub or well branched tree up to 10 m high. Bark is grey-brown, smooth but later finely
grooved. Branches have no spines or hairs. Leaves are alternate, often shiny above, oval to circular, 3.2
– 13 cm long and 1.2 – 7.5 cm wide with toothed edges. Fruits are yellow to red and 4 - 7 mm long.
Maytenus undata in flower near I zumbwe in July
Ecology Found in lowland and mountain savannah areas in East and West Africa and in dry upland
forest, often associated with Cedar or Olive. I t is also be found in degraded forests, in bush-land or in
clumps of woodland in grassland.
Propagation Grows easily from seed. No treatment is necessary. The tree can also be grown from
cuttings.
Uses The fruit is eaten in Umalila and also in Mozambique. Bees were very active collecting pollen and
nectar at midday. Related plants are known to be visited by bees in Ethiopia. Timber is red, hard and
heavy, used for tool handles, hut building and for firewood. The leafy branches are used as a livestock
feed in times of drought. The bark is eaten as a relish in Kenya and a decoction of the bark is used as a
tonic. When pounded and steeped in cold water it is used as a drink. The plant can be grown as a
hedge.
References Coates Palgrave 1983, Burkill 1985, Bekele-Tesemma et al. 1993, Beentje 1994, Fichtl &
Adi 1994, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, Lovett et al. 2006
146
Mikaniopsis tanganyikensis
(Asteraceae)
Common names I zeru
Description A scrambling shrub or creeper. Mikaniopsis species resemble those of Senecio.
Ecology The plant was growing at the forest edge.
Uses Bees were seen collecting nectar in October near Shilanga. A related species, M. clematoides
provides pollen and nectar to honey bees in Ethiopia.
Remarks A rare plant, only the second collection from Tanzania (Vollesen – personal communication)
References Agnew 1974, Fichtl & Adi 1994
Major Pepete with two
women from Mbagara.
Older people generally
know the names and
uses of many different
plants and it is vital for
future generations that
this knowledge is kept.
147
Momordica foetida
(Cucurbitaceae)
Common names I nyole (Malila), Mnukia muuma (Swahili)
Description A hairy climber or creeping herb growing from a perennial rootstock. Tendrils arise from
opposite the leaves and are simple or forked. Young stems are spotted dark green. The plant has an
unpleasant smell. Leaves are alternate, 8 – 12 cm across. Male and female flowers are on separate
plants. Female flowers are borne on long stalks arising from the axils. They are pale yellow and have a
black centre. 4 – 8 male flowers are borne together. Fruit pale yellow to bright orange, up to 6.5 cm
long covered with soft orange bristles. The fruit bursts when ripe revealing the seeds in a red pulp.
Ecology Found at forest edges and clearings, and
on disturbed ground up to an altitude of 2,400 m.
Widespread in tropical Africa and also in South
Africa.
Management
The
troublesome weed.
plant
can
become
a
Uses I n Umalila the roots are used to treat women
with heavy periods. Leaves and roots are pounded,
water added and the liquid drunk for stomach-ache.
The leaves are gathered from the wild and eaten in
times of hunger as a vegetable elsewhere in
Tanzania and in Gabon, Sudan and Uganda. The
pulp of the ripe fruits is also eaten in these
countries and in Ghana and Kenya. Plants are
reported to be grazed by cattle in Sudan, though
other reports say that the plant is poisonous to
stock. The leaves are fed to rabbits in Kenya.
References Blundell 1987, Ruffo et al. 2002, Bosch
2004
148
Morus alba
(Moraceae)
Common names Mforsadi, mfurusadi (Swahili), mulberry.
Description A small deciduous
tree, fast growing, up to 35 m tall.
The bark is pale-brown or pinkgrey, smooth and yields a white or
yellowish-white latex. Leaves are
very variable, oval to heart shaped
with 3 nerves from the base, 5 -15
cm long, but usually small and
coarsely toothed. The small, green,
male and female flowers are borne
on different plants. Fruit is up to 2
cm long. pink to dark maroon,
sweet and juicy.
Ecology Grows in subtropical to
mild temperate areas. The plant
prefers a moist climate, up to an
altitude of 2,000 m and tolerates
shade. I t grows best on a deep
alluvial
soil
with
adequate
moisture. I t does not withstand
drought. The tree is widely grown
in Tanzania.
Propagation
Grown
from
seedlings or cuttings but seed
germinates poorly. The tree can
also be grown by layering.
Management Fast growing when
planted from cuttings. Fruit is
produced after 3 years. The tree
will require pruning to maintain its
shape and to allow new shoots to
develop. I t should be protected
from livestock.
Uses The sweet, juicy fruit is
rather tasteless when eaten fresh
but can be made into juice, jam or
chutney. The tree can be used as a hedge
or planted close together along the
contours to stabilize steep slopes. Wood is
suitable for house building, furniture, tool
handles and makes a medium quality fuel.
Leaves can be fed to livestock and are
highly nutritious. I n some countries the
leaves are eaten as a vegetable or used to
raise silkworms.
References Mbuya et al. 1994, I CRAF
1998, Dharani 2002
149
Musa spp.
(Musaceae)
Common names I ndoki (Malila), banana.
Ecology
Commonly
grown around homes in
Umalila.
Deep
friable
loams and soils which are
not
compacted
are
preferred. High organic
matter and fertility assure
good
yields.
Bananas
require
an
adequate
supply of water but high
rainfall tends to encourage
disease problems.
Propagation By sucker.
Remove old roots and
diseased parts and place
suckers in a sack and dip
in boiling water for 30
seconds
to
control
nematodes and borers.
The best
method of
planting is to dig out a
hole 60 x 60 x 60 cm, add
5 debes (20 litre tins) of
manure and mix with top
soil in the base of the
hole. Plant the sucker in
the pit at the beginning of
the
rains
and
add
household
waste
and
manure from time to time.
Management
Remove all dead
leaves. There should be 6 to 8
healthy leaves remaining on the
plant
for
adequate
fruit
development.
Remove
excess
suckers. Cut out old stems below
ground level after harvest and cover
the exposed surface with soil to
reduce borer/ weevil
infestation.
Chop up the stems to encourage
them to dry out or rot down quickly.
Uses The main use is for edible
fruit. Bees forage for nectar and
pollen from the flowers throughout
the day, though not all nectar is
available to them. Nectar secretion
is increased by rain and damp soil.
The flavour of the honey produced
is sharp, similar to tamarind.
References Crane et al. 1984,
The small dessert bananas known as ‘Kambani’ are commonly
eaten as a snack. ‘I siya’ is a larger type which can be eaten
fresh or cooked.
Nakasone & Paull 1998
150
Myrianthus holstii
(Cecropiaceae)
Common names I twiza, iswizya (Malila), mswiza (Nyakyusa), giant yellow mulberry
Description A tree up to 20 m high, but
often less, with a short trunk and large
branches. Bark is grey-brown producing a
watery sap, which turns black on exposure.
Leaves are 25 – 60 cm across, compound
and palm shaped made up of 5 – 7 leaflets,
the largest central leaflet being 20 – 30 cm
long. Outer leaflets are smaller. Leaf edge
toothed, the upper surface being smooth
and dark green. Lower side is grey-green
and hairy, with clearly marked veins.
Leaves are borne on a hairy stalk 7 – 35 cm
long. Male and female flowers are present
on separate trees. Male flowers are
greenish with orange anthers. Female
flowers are in a stalked yellow head 2 cm in
diameter. Fruit is usually round, 5 - 8 cm in
diameter, hard and yellow when ripe with
sections like a pineapple. I n Umalila a
second species, M. arboreus, with fruits 6 10 cm in diameter (see below), is also
present. The seeds are surrounded by an
acid yellow pulp.
Ecology Present in rain forest, and in mountain forests, sometimes at the edges or in forest
regrowth and along rivers between altitudes of 900 and 2,100 m. Occurs from Mozambique
and Zimbabwe northwards to Zambia, and in D.R. Congo, Uganda and Kenya.
Propagation The tree can
be grown from seed, wild
seedlings or root suckers.
Crush the fruit to extract the
seeds. Store in a cool dry
place.
Management The tree can
be coppiced or pollarded.
Uses
Fresh
fruits
are
collected
and
eaten,
sometimes being sold in local
markets. Timber is white and
soft and used for firewood,
torches
and
cups
in
Tanzania. Leaves make a
good mulch, and the tree is
useful for soil and water
conservation.
In
Umalila
bees are reported to visit the
flowers.
References FZ 1991, Katende et al. 1995, White et al. 2001, Ruffo et al. 2002, Burrows &
Willis 2005, Lovett et al. 2006
151
Myrica humilis
(Myricaceae)
Synonym M. salicifolia, Morella salicifolia,
Common names I siwiziwe
Description An evergreen shrub or
small to medium tree up to 15 m
high with a wide spreading crown
and having large branches. Bark is
thick, corky, pale-grey and deeply
fissured.
Leaves
are
simple,
alternate, dark green above and pale
green beneath, 1.5 – 17 cm long and
0.6 – 6 cm wide. There are small
yellow glands on the undersurface of
the leaves and the leaves have a
spicy aromatic smell when crushed.
The small yellow flowers are fragrant
and produced in catkins. Young twigs
are glandular and hairy. Male and
female flowers are separate. Fruit is
a very small purple berry, having
white waxy dots on the surface.
Ecology Grows at the edges of dry
mountain forests and in forest
regrowth in Tanzania, often on rocky,
shallow soils. Also present in Kenya,
Malawi, Zambia, Ethiopia and in the
Arabian peninsular. Altitude range
1,600 – 3,300 m.
Propagation Can be grown from
seed or root suckers. Germination
rate is fast but few seeds germinate.
Only fresh seed should be used.
Management The tree can be coppiced but is slow growing. I t is fire resistant.
Uses. I n Umalila the flowers are reported to be visited by
bees. Myrica species are recorded as being good bee forage in
the Sahel. The leaves are eaten by an edible caterpillar
variously called I ungu, Sambenze or I siwiziwe which is
collected in March (see page 191). The gut is not removed.
The caterpillar also feeds on I zenya ( Agarista salicifolia) and
Mshesheru (unidentified). The wood is moderately hard but is
of poor quality and used for local carpentry only and for
firewood and charcoal. The tree makes a good shade. The
bark is chewed for toothache and bark extracts are used to
treat body pains and fatigue. Seeds and roots are used as an
anthelmintic and to treat coughs. Roots are used as a slow
acting medicine for stomach-ache and headaches. Roots are
pounded and soaked in water or boiled and the infusion drunk
for indigestion. A decoction of bark together with milk is given
to children as a tonic. Pounded young leaves with ghee are
rubbed on to treat skin infections. The tree is also reported to
be used for making a dye and for basket work.
References Kokwaro 1976, Mbuya et al. 1994, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, White et al. 2001, Burrows &
Willis 2005, Lovett et al. 2006
152
Mystroxylon aethiopicum
(Celastraceae)
Synonym Cassine aethiopica, C. velutinum
Common names I tobero, insambwa (Malila), kooboo berry.
Description A shrub or small evergreen tree
up to 18 m high. Bark is black to dark brown
and rough. Leaves 1.6 – 12 cm long and 0.8
5.6 wide, leathery, ovate to oblong, apex
rounded, margins entire or finely toothed.
Flowers are pale green/ yellow. Fruit is a
smooth red berry from 0.8 to 2 cm in
diameter.
Ecology Found in mountain and riverine
forests between 0 and 2,450 m altitude. Also
common in woodland and on termite mounds.
Present from Ethiopia to the western Cape in
South Africa, Madagascar and the I ndian
Ocean islands. The shrub is drought hardy.
Propagation Remove flesh from the berry
and plant seeds in an equal mixture of sand
and compost in a warm site. Keep soil moist.
The seed takes 2 – 3 weeks to germinate.
Keep seedlings in shade and then gradually
expose them to more sunlight. Plant out in the
following rain season.
Uses The flowers are reported to be visited by
Photo : Braam van Wyk
the bark as a drench for worm infestation in
calves. Root bark is used to treat diarrhoea
and dysentery. Bark tea is drunk by children
for stomach pain. The bark is used for tanning
leather.
References Coates Palgrave 1983, Peters et
al 1992, Venter & Venter 1996, Neuwinger
2000, Burrows & Willis 2005, Lovett et al.
2006
Mama Sampamba Mwakawasira
making an axe shaft
153
bees. The fruit is edible and sweet and ripens
in March and April. The thin sticks are used to
sew up sacks as the wood is very hard and
strong. I n South Africa the Xhosa people use
the wood to make tool handles and as
firewood. Zulus prepare a milk infusion from
Neoboutonia macrocalyx
(Euphorbiaceae)
Common names I papama
Description A fast growing tree up to
25 m tall with a short trunk. Bark thin,
fairly smooth, grey-brown. The under
bark is green. Young leaves and shoots
are covered with pale brown hairs.
Leaves are large and rounded, 6 – 35 cm
in diameter with prominent veins and on
stalks 10 – 20 cm long. The yellow-green
flowers are in terminal heads 50 x 30 cm.
Fruit is a grey, three lobed capsule 12 13 mm in diameter.
Ecology Grows in upland forest, mostly
on the edges and in clearings. A quick
growing pioneer tree where moist forest
has been disturbed or cleared.
Left : Neoboutonia macrocalyx in flower
in June beside a forest track near I lembo
Propagation Can be grown from seed
or wild seedlings. Harvest the capsules
just before they open. Spread out on
polythene sheeting and collect the seeds
when the capsules open. Seed can be
stored in sealed containers in a cool
place but must be sown within two
months.
Uses The wood is soft, white and
fibrous and suitable for firewood,
carving and paper pulp. The tree can
be planted along contours to conserve
soil. Bees were seen collecting nectar
in June. The root, bark and leaves are
used medicinally in Burundi and
eastern Congo.
References Beentje 1994, Katende et
al. 1995, Neuwinger 2000, Lovett et
al. 2006
154
Neorautanenia mitis
(Fabaceae)
Synonyms N. pseudopachyrhiza
Common names I hole
Description A shrubby herb, very variable,
erect, climbing and scrambling, with stems up
to 2 m long, or more, arising from a large
tuberous rootstock which may weigh 12 kg or
more. Leaves are alternate, trifoliate and on
stalks. I ndividual leaflets are round and 3
lobed, 5 – 19 cm long and 4 – 19 cm wide.
The mauve, purple or sometimes whitish
flowers are in dense racemes 10 - 50 cm long.
Fruit pods are 10 – 13 cm long and 1.5 - 1.8
cm wide, leathery, releasing black or blackishred seeds.
Ecology Found in grassland, bushland, open
woodland, sometimes in rocky places with an
altitude range between 1,200 and 1,450m.
The plant is widespread across tropical Africa
from Sudan to south western Africa.
Uses I n Umalila the root is washed, peeled,
chopped and dried in the sun before being
ground to powder. A pinch of powder is then
put in the funnel of the maize plant to control
stalk-borer. However this should be done
during the rain season to avoid the risk of
burning the plants. The dried root is
sometimes used for firewood. The flowers are
reported to be visited by honeybees in Umalila.
The powdered root is sometimes sprinkled on
to bees to make them quiet while harvesting
honey. However as the root powder is used by
the Wahehe and Sukuma people as an effective
protection for stored maize against insect
attack, this practice is not recommended. The
root powder is also widely used in Tanzania,
Malawi, Zimbabwe and D. R. Congo as a fish
poison.
The cooked
leaves are used
medicinally, bound onto areas affected by
scabies or pounded and applied as a repellent
for sand fleas. I n Rwanda the powdered root,
mixed with butter, is used to treat calves with
mange. The root is poisonous and reported to
contain the chemical Rolvarine. I t can be used
to rub on furniture to protect against borers.
However the root serves as an emergency
source of fluid for people in the deserts of
south western Africa. They slice off the top and
pound the flesh. The sap separates and is then
removed for use. The fruit, though used as a
fish poison, is also used as a food by the
Sukuma people in times of famine. The plant is
effective in killing bilharzia carrying fresh water
snails. Sap is used as a soap substitute in Zimbabwe.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Wild et al. 1972, Williamson 1975, Kokwaro 1976, Burkill
1995, van Wyk & Gericke 2000, Raemaekers 2001
155
Nicandra physaloides
(Solanaceae)
Common names I fuate, ifoti (Malila), apple of Peru.
Description
A
much
branched, erect annual herb
growing to 1.2 m high.
Leaves are alternate with
irregularly
and
deeply
toothed margins. Flowers
pale blue to purplish with
white centres. Stamens 1.5
to 2.5 cm long. The plant
can be found flowering
when only a few cm tall.
Widespread and flowering
during most of the year.
Left : Nicandra physaloides
in cropland near Sasyaka
Ecology
An
introduced
weed from Peru and Central
America. Grows in arable
land up to an altitude of
2,400 m. Now present in
Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe and South Africa. I t is sometimes the dominant weed in maize.
Propagation
The
spreads by seed.
plant
Uses Young tender leaves
are collected in the rain
season and used as a
vegetable
in
Tanzania.
They are sometimes sold
commercially.
Flowering
takes place nearly all year
round
and
bees
are
reported to collect pollen
and some nectar.
References Agnew 1974,
Moriarty 1975, Fichtl & Adi
1994, Ruffo et al. 2002
156
Nicotiana tabacum
(Solanaceae)
Common names I ntumba (Malila), tumbako (Swahili), tobacco
Description An annual or short lived perennial herb growing 1 – 3 m high.
Ecology Tobacco thrives in a
warm climate and needs
sufficient rainfall while the
plants are young. I t does not
grow well on water-logged
soils or soils with a high salt
content.
Propagation Seed is long
lived and should be sown
thinly in a fine seedbed. One
teaspoon is sufficient for 30
sq. m. Sowing is best carried
out using a watering can.
Place the seed in the can, add
water, stir and then use a fine
spray.
Uses The plant can be used
as a spray to control insects.
The highest concentration of
nicotine is in the stalks and
leaf ribs. Sprays are most
effective
when
the
temperature is above 30°C.
Food crops should not be
eaten until 4 days after
spraying. The plant also acts
as an insect repellent and a
fungicide. Nicotine spray is
effective
against
aphids,
cabbage worms, caterpillars,
flea beetles, grain weevils, leaf
miners, mites, stem borers,
thrips and rust disease in
beans. Soak 1 kg crushed
tobacco stalks and leaves in
15 litres water for one day.
Add some grated soap (this
will help the liquid stick to the
sprayed plants). Filter out the solid material. Spray immediately using a fine nozzle. Clean out all
utensils carefully after use. Nicotine is a very toxic organic poison. I t is important not to allow
the spray to come in contact w ith the skin during application. Tobacco is also a useful bee plant
providing both pollen and nectar. Though the honey from tobacco is unpalatable by itself it is normally
brought in with nectar from other plants, which masks the unpleasant taste.
References Purseglove 1968, Crane et al. 1984, Stoll 2000
157
Nuxia congesta
(Loganiaceae)
Synonym N. sambesina, N. viscosa
Common names I mbaza (Malila), brittlewood, common wild elder
Description A shrub or small
tree often with many stems, up
to 10 m high or 25 m in closed
forest. The trunk is often
twisted, corrugated, and the
lower branches often hang
down. Bark is grey to brown,
flaking lengthwise in long strips.
Young branches are 3 – 6 sided
with thicker nodes where the
leaves arise. Leaves are 7 - 11
cm long and 2 - 5 cm wide,
leathery, dull green, in groups of
3 at the ends of branches. They
have short stalks, sometimes
with a few coarse teeth near the
apex, or with a rounded or
notched tip. Flowers are heavily
scented, small, white, cream or
mauve, in dense terminal flat or
rounded heads.
Ecology Grows in the lower storey vegetation in forest edges and in drier evergreen highland forests.
Altitude range is from 1,500 to 3,100 m. Present in West, Central and East Africa, north to Eritrea and in
southern Africa.
Propagation Can be grown from
seed or wild seedlings. Collect the
fruits when mature. Seed can be
stored.
Management The tree is slow
growing and can be coppiced or
pollarded.
Uses A good bee forage. Bees
collect abundant nectar and
pollen throughout the day. The
flowers are known to be a
valuable source of honey at
higher altitudes.
Other Nuxia
species are reported to be good
honey producers. The bark or
leaves are chewed or boiled in
water and the liquid drunk to cure
indigestion in East Africa. Bark is
used in Uganda to treat toothache
and impotence.
References Wild et al 1972,
Kokwaro 1976, FZ 1983, Fichtl &
Adi 1994, Bekele-Tesemma et al. 1993, Katende et al. 1995, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, Hyde & Wursten
2002-6, Lovett et al. 2006
158
Ocimum gratissimum
(Lamiaceae)
Synonyms O. viride, O.suave
Common names I songwa,
ishiomwe
(Malila),
East
I ndian basil, tea bush, tree
basil, fever plant
Description
An
erect,
branched,
woody
shrub
from 30 to 250 cm tall.
Ecology
Widespread
in
open sites in Central and
East Africa and in tropical
Asia. Common in disturbed
ground in upland forest
areas, with an altitude range
of 600 – 2,400 m.
Left : Ocimum gratissimum
in grassland at I tundu in
July.
Uses The plant is widely
known as an aromatic,
antiseptic herb and as a
stimulant. I t is an important
medicinal plant, particularly
in West and Central Africa.
I n eastern Tanzania a root
decoction is drunk and leaf
pulp is rubbed on the body
to treat convulsions and
epilepsy. The leaves can be
infused to make a tea and
the oil is used in perfumery.
The plant is burnt as a
mosquito
repellent
in
southern Africa. The strongly scented leaves are rubbed between the palms and snuffed as a treatment
for blocked nostrils. The leaves and oil are used to treat fevers, headaches, impotence, diarrhoea,
dysentery and worms in children. They are also rubbed on to the skin to treat rheumatism and
lumbago. This and other species of Ocimum are frequently rubbed onto hives, especially around the
entrance, to attract bees. Other species are known to be important bee forage plants which flower over
long periods.
References Watt & Breyer - Brandwijk 1962. Kokwaro 1976, Howes 1979, Blundell 1987, Fichtl & Adi
1994, Bown 1995, Burkill 1995, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, Neuwinger 2000, Paterson 2006
159
Ocimum lamiifolium
(Lamiaceae)
Common names I sawi
Description
An erect, robust,
branching shrub up to 3 m high.
Leaves are opposite and covered
with fine hairs. Flowers are white
or very pale purple in compound or
simple terminal flower heads.
Ecology Sometimes grown as a
hedge plant in Umalila. Locally
common on mountain forest edges
and in disturbed ground. Altitude
range 1,500 – 2,700 m. Present in
Maasai, Tabora, Mbeya and I ringa
regions in Tanzania and also in
Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, eastern
D.R.Congo and Ethiopia.
Left : Ocimum lamiifolium growing
in wasteland near Yalenga.
Propagation Can be grown from
seed.
Uses A hedge plant. Bees were
collecting pollen and nectar in
April. The plant has a long
flowering period. Ocimum species
are known to be important bee
forage plants. I n Ethiopia the
leaves are reported to have value
in reducing fever.
References Blundell 1987, Fichtl
& Adi 1994, Hepburn & Radloff
1998
160
Olinia rochetiana
(Oliniaceae)
Synonym O. usambarensis
Common names I wobe
Description A shrub or tree
Olinia rochetiana with young fruit in April
up to 20 m tall. Bark is light
grey-brown, flaking in thin
yellow-brown flakes. When cut
the
branches
have
a
characteristic unpleasant burnt
smell. Small branches are
square in cross section. Leaves
are bright red when young,
opposite, up to 7 cm long and
are wider towards the tip which
is blunt or notched and has
toothed edges. The leaf stalk is
grooved and often pinkish.
Flowers are cream-white fading
to pink-red, strong smelling,
very small and in dense round
heads up to 7.5 cm diameter.
Fruit is in heavy bunches, redbrown when ripe, and 0.5 - 1
cm in diameter.
Ecology The tree was growing in grass/ bush land in Umalila. I t is also found on the margins of
evergreen forest, near streams, in gallery forests and rocky outcrops on the Nyika plateau in Malawi. I n
Uganda the tree grows in dry upland forests between 1,600 and 2,900 m. I t is especially found in
secondary forests and on forest edges. I n Ethiopia it grows between altitudes of 1,300 and 3,200 m in
various types of forest: mountain, evergreen, riverine and frequently on forest edges. I t also grows in
evergreen bushland and is sometimes left as a single tree in grassland and farmland derived from
forest. The tree is present in D.R. Congo, Rwanda, Kenya, Angola, Zambia, Malawi, Zimbabwe and
South Africa.
Propagation Can be grown from seed or transplanted small
wild seedlings. Soaking the seed in cold water for 24 hours
may hasten germination.
Management The tree can be coppiced or pollarded.
Uses The tree is reported to be visited by bees in Umalila
and is known to be an important bee forage being worked for
pollen and nectar in Ethiopia. The tree is commonly used for
firewood though, in Umalila, it is reported to make poor
firewood and is better made into charcoal. The stems are
used for house building, farm tools and walking sticks. The
leaves are eaten by goats and cattle. I n Uganda the tree is
planted for soil conservation, the timber is used for firewood
and charcoal and the roots and bark are used as medicine.
The roots, bark and young leaves are used medicinally in
Kenya to treat fevers, tapeworms, rheumatism, bronchitis
and indigestion and as a stimulant. The tree can also be
planted for ornamental purposes.
Photo : Reinhard Fichtl
References Kokwaro 1976, FZ 1978, Coates Palgrave 1983, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Hepburn & Radloff
1998, Katende et al. 2000, Neuwinger 2000, Burrows & Willis 2005, Lovett et al. 2006
161
Oreosyce africana
(Cucurbitaceae)
Common names I nyuli
Oreosyce africana growing in a hedge at Shilanga village
Description A climbing or trailing plant, 3 – 4 m long, having tendrils. Stems are rough and covered
with brown hairs. Leaf blade is hairy, slightly 3 – 5 lobed and may be roughly triangular in outline, 22 –
98 mm long and 30 – 79 mm wide. Lobes are
triangular with central lobe the largest. Leaf stalk has
brown hairs and is 24 – 115 mm long. Male flowers
are in groups of 2 – 5, having pale yellow or cream
petals, which are rounded and united at the base.
Female flowers are solitary on 3.5 – 9 mm stalks.
The green to greenish white fruit is borne on a stalk
8 – 20 mm long, is roughly oval, 15 – 27 mm long
and 13 – 21 mm wide, bearing tubercles of different
lengths.
Ecology Found in upland grassland, also on the
edges and in clearings in forest and bamboo thicket.
Altitude range 900 – 3,000 m. Also present in
Uganda, Kenya, Malawi, Angola, Cameroon, eastern
DR Congo, Ethiopia and Madagascar.
Uses Bees were seen collecting nectar near Shilanga
village. The plant is cooked with Justicia heterocarpa
and the soup taken to accelerate childbirth in
Tanzania. The leaf is rubbed on areas affected by
ringworm.
References FTEA 1967, Burkill 1985, Burrows & Willis 2005
162
Osyris quadripartita
(Santalaceae)
Synonym O. lanceolata, O. compressa, Colpoon compressum
Common names I weya (Malila), mbula (Nyakyusa), African or East African sandalwood.
Description An evergreen shrub or small
tree from 1 to 6 m tall. Bark is smooth and
grey later becoming thick and rough.
Leaves are simple and alternate, crowded
along the stems, grey, blue or yellowgreen, slightly fleshy, becoming tough and
leathery 1 – 7 cm long with a sharp tip,
edges are tightly rolled under, the 2 mm
stalk runs down the stem forming a ridge.
Male and female flowers separate but on
the same plant. Male flowers are short and
greenish in short loose, few flowered
clusters. The female flowers are usually
solitary. Fruits are waxy, oval to round
berries about 1 cm long, green-yellow
ripening to shiny red, fleshy and edible,
containing one seed.
Ecology Grows on well drained soils as an
under-storey shrub in highland forests and
forest remnants and on rocky ridges and
mountain slopes from 1,500 to 2,500 m
altitude. Found in Kenya, Ethiopia, Burundi
and South Africa. Also present in southern
Europe and Asia.
Propagation Can be grown from fresh
seed or suckers. I t is best to nick the base
of the seed to increase germination speed
which is normally 60% after 6 weeks.
Management Very slow growing and
requires shade in the early stages.
Uses Reported to be used as a salt
substitute in Umalila. Elsewhere in
Tanzania the leaf, roots and bark infusions are drunk as a tea and as a tonic. The fruit is found from
July to December and is eaten raw. The roots and bark are sold locally and also exported to make
perfume. The wood is very hard, strong and heavy and used for carvings, mortars, firewood, pestles,
pegs, beds and building poles. The roots are used to make a red dye. The shrub can be planted as an
ornamental and for soil conservation. Flowers are produced throughout the year and bees collect pollen
and nectar. Root fibres are used to make baskets.
Remarks The tree is endangered in Tanzania due to over-exploitation for cosmetics. I n South Africa O.
compressa is regarded as a separate species and grows as a partial parasite on other trees. I t is
restricted to coastal dunes.
References Watt & Breyer - Brandwijk 1962, Wild et al.1972, Coates Palgrave 1983, Peters et al. 1992,
Beentje 1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Mbuya et al. 1994, Neuwinger 2000, van Wyk & Gericke 2000, White et
al. 2001, Ruffo et al. 2002, Burrows & Willis 2005, Lovett et al. 2006
163
Parinari curatellifolia
(Chrysobalanaceae)
Synonym P. mobola
Common names I yula,
ihula (Malila),
mbula,
(Swahili), mobola plum
iwula,
mbura
Description An evergreen shrub
or small tree with a dense rounded
crown. Bark rough, dark greybrown.
Young
shoots
have
yellowish woolly hairs. Leaves oval
and alternate, with clear parallel
veins, leathery, 3 to 8 cm long.
Flowers are small, white-pink and
scented. I n Tanzania flowering
occurs over a long period between
August and November. Fruit oval,
up to 5 cm long, containing one
seed with two fatty kernels. The
fibrous yellow flesh is sweet but
sharp.
Ecology Grows in most areas of
Tanzania, from 0 to 2,100 m in
grassland
often
persisting
in
Parinari curatellifolia near Shilanga
secondary bushland and cultivated
land. The tree is also present in Uganda, Kenya, Zimbabwe and South Africa and from Senegal to
Cameroon.
Propagation Grow from seed or use wild seedlings or root suckers. Collect fresh seed from fruit on the
tree. Clean the flesh away and dry the seed in the shade. I mmerse in boiling water for 15 minutes,
allow to cool, then soak for 24 hours. Sow in sandy soil and cover with a thin layer of sand. Take care
not to damage the tap-root when transplanting, which should be done at the 3 leaf stage. Plant out
after 2 years. The young trees grow quite fast. Germination of seed may be poor and very slow, taking
up to 6 months. I t should also be possible to use root suckers, which are produced after cutting or
damaging the root.
Management The tree is often protected in
Tanzania.
Uses The flowers are a valuable bee forage,
providing abundant nectar and pollen. The sweet
fruit is usually eaten fresh. The taste is improved if
fruits are stored for several days until completely
ripe. They are sometimes dried for later use. A
tasty syrup can be made by peeling the ripe fruits
and soaking them in warm water or boiling the
fruit in water. This is then diluted. The fruits can
also be made into jam or cooked and eaten with
porridge. Cooking oil can be extracted from the seeds. Fruit flesh is rich in vitamin C and the seed
kernel is rich in oil. The seeds may be dried, roasted and crushed. The wood is used for charcoal, poles
and tool handles. The timber is hard and heavy and used for building rafters and for furniture. I t tends
to blunt saws quickly. The tree makes an attractive shady tree. The leaves and fruit can be used as
livestock fodder. Bark can be used for tanning. A bark extract is used to bathe a person suffering from
pneumonia. The mouth is rinsed with a root infusion to ease toothache. Young shoots are used as
toothbrushes in Zanzibar and Pemba.
References Williamson 1975, Coates Palgrave 1983, FAO 1983, Burkill 1985, Mbuya et al. 1994, Venter
& Venter 1996, I CRAF 1998, Msanga 1998, van Wyk & Gericke 2000, Kihwele et al. 2001, Ruffo et al.
2002
164
Passiflora edulis
(Passifloraceae)
Common names I pokhola (Malila), passion fruit, granadilla.
Description
A
vigorous
woody perennial vine, up to
15 m long. The stems remain
green. Tendrils arise from the
leaf axils and are spirally
coiled. Leaves are borne on
stalks and are 3 lobed, 10 –
15 cm long and 12 - 25 cm
wide, but are often undivided
on young plants. Flowers are
solitary, fragrant and 7.5 - 10
cm
in
diameter.
Fruits
become deep purple when
ripe. Seeds are black and
surrounded by yellowish, juicy
pulp which has a sharp but
pleasant flavour.
Ecology The plant is native to
southern Brazil. I n Umalila it is widely grown over hedges, fences and on trees. I t prefers a cool
highland climate and, between altitudes of 1,200 and 1,500 m, plants produce for up to 8 years. The
plant requires a well distributed rainfall but rain should be minimal during the flowering period.
Propagation Seeds should be washed to remove the pulp and then dried in the sun. They can be
stored at room temperature for up to 3 months. Sow in a seed-bed. Germination takes approximately 2
weeks. Young plants are usually transplanted into polythene tubes and grown in semi-shade until they
are 25 - 50 cm high. They should be hardened off in full sun for 1 or 2 months before planting out.
Management Pinch out the top shoot and allow 2 - 4 leaders to grow. Tie the new shoots to the fence
or trellis. Pruning should be light and carried out after the crop has been harvested. I t encourages new
growth and maintains high yields. Remove all vines that touch the ground. Always cut growth a few
nodes away from the main stem. Do not throw long vines over the fence. Thin out some vines growing
on top of the fence and leave them there to dry out and fall naturally.
Uses Grown for its edible
fruit which can be used fresh
or made into a juice. The
juice is highly nutritious and
has good mineral content. I t
is a digestive stimulant and
has been used as a remedy
for gastric tumours. Seeds
are oily and have potential
for soap making. Bees collect
pollen
and nectar
and,
together with carpenter bees,
are the most important
pollinators for the plant.
Preparation of juice . Fruit
is washed and diseased or
damaged fruit is removed.
Remove stalk and cut fruit in half. Remove flesh. Seeds are separated from pulp with a centrifugal
extractor or can be sieved out. Water and sugar are then added to taste. Filter again. Sterilize and
bottle after cooling. Juice can be stored for 3 months at 25 - 28°C. Consume within 24 hrs. of opening
the bottle.
References Purseglove 1968, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Burkill 1997, Nakasone & Paul 1998
165
Passiflora ligularis
(Passifloraceae)
Common names Sweet passion fruit, sweet granadilla
Description
A vigorous
woody climber with entire
leaves, 10 – 20 cm long
and greenish-white flowers,
7 – 10 cm in diameter.
Fruit is an oval berry, 7 – 8
cm in diameter, orangebrown when ripe and
having a hard shell. The
fruit pulp is white with
black, flat, pitted seeds.
Leaves are large and
undivided. I mmature fruits
are green with a slight
purple sheen at first but
then turn orange. Pulp is
clear and sweet.
Ecology
Grows
in
mountainous regions, 900
– 2,700 m altitude in the
tropics or at lower altitudes
in the sub tropics. The
plant originates in tropical
I mmature fruit and foliage
America, where it is also cultivated. Elsewhere it is
occasionally cultivated, particularly in Hawaii, New Zealand
and New Guinea.
Propagation The plant can be grown from seed or
cuttings.
Management The plant needs to be supported off the
ground and can be grown over a tree or trellis.
Uses
I n Umalila
pulp from the fruits
is
eaten
fresh.
Elswehere
it
is
made into drinks
and ice creams.
References Purseglove 1968, Verheij & Coronel 1991,
Nakasone & Paull 1998, van Wyk 2005
166
Pavetta sp. probably abyssinica
(Rubiaceae)
Common names I zenya zenya
Description Pavetta abyssinica is a forest under-shrub or tree 2 – 8 m tall. Leaves are opposite,
glabrous, 4 – 16 cm long and 1.5 – 6 cm wide, often drying black. Leaves of Pavetta species often have
bacterial nitrogen fixing nodules, visible as black or pale dots or stripes. Flowers are borne terminally on
leafy branches or short leafless shoots. Fruits are black and up to 1 cm across.
Ecology Present in highland forests, between
1,050 and 2,500 m altitudes. Also present in
Kenya, Uganda and Malawi.
Propagation P. lanceolata can be grown from
seed. Seedlings prefer being grown in some
shade. They can be transplanted fairly easily.
Seedlings and young plants require adequate
water but once established can be grown in the
sun and tolerate dry conditions. The plant grows
slowly at first.
Management P. lanceolata can be grown as a
hedge or screen.
Uses Many bees were seen visiting the flowers in
October. Pavetta species are known to be
important honey plants.
Remarks There are known to be 70 species of Pavetta in East Africa. The identity of this species,
determined from the photographs, is likely to be P. abyssinica (H. Beentje – personal communication).
References Blundell 1987, FTEA 1988, Beentje 1994, Mabberely 1997, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, White
et al. 2001, Herman 2006, Lovett et al. 2006
167
Pavonia urens
(Malvaceae)
Common names I wawa
Description
A very
variable erect shrub,
1.5 to 3 m tall. Usually
the stems and leaves
are covered with dense
golden-brown hairs that
may cause a slight skin
irritation. Leaves are
also variable in size, the
lowermost up to 15 cm
long, but the upper
much smaller, borne on
stalks 2.5 to 11 cm
long. The flowers, 3 - 5
cm in diameter, are
bright rose pink to
mauve with a darker
base, and have a
central pink column of
stamens 1.5 to 2.5 cm
long.
Flowers
are
produced in southern
Tanzania from April July.
Ecology
Pavonia urens in flower near I lembo in June
Common in
forest
margins,
secondary forest and
scrub from 600 to 2,000
m altitude. Widespread
in tropical Africa but
most common in the drier regions.
Uses Bees were seen collecting nectar in the early morning. Bees frequently collect pollen and
abundant nectar in Ethiopia. The flowers may be cooked as a vegetable. String, made from the stems,
is used widely. The leaves are browsed by sheep and goats. They are sometimes used for cleaning the
hands and utensils in Kenya. A decoction of the root is drunk to treat abdominal disorders in Pare,
Tanzania.
References Agnew 1974, Williamson 1975, Kokwaro 1976, Cribb & Leedal 1982, Fichtl & Adi 1994,
Burkill 1997
168
Peddiea polyantha
(Thymelaeaceae)
Common names Gamboruguga
Description A shrub or small tree 2 – 6 m
high. Branches are light-brown and
smooth. Leaf stalks are 3 – 6 mm long.
Leaves are alternate, spear shaped, 9 – 14
cm long, and 2.5 – 4 cm wide. They are
often clustered at the ends of the
branches. The flower head has 10 – 18
yellowish green flowers with a slight violet
tinge on the outside.
Ecology The tree was photographed in
Khatanta forest. I t is found in upland
rainforest, from 1,500 to 2,200 m in
Tanzania.
Uses Bees are reported to visit flowers in
Umalila though, with the long corolla tube,
they may have difficulty getting to the
nectar. Other species of Peddiea are known
to have useful fibres.
References FTEA 1978
Jelimaya Kanini lighting up a smoker at
Yalenga. Only 30 of his 60 hives had bees.
169
Pennisetum purpureum
(Poaceae)
Common names I sale (Malila), elephant grass, napier grass
Description A robust, erect, deep rooted perennial grass with stems growing 2 – 6 m high and forming
large clumps. Leaves 30 - 120 cm long by 1 - 5 cm wide with a prominent midrib. The leaf sheath is
hairy.
Ecology Napier grass will grow up to an altitude of 2,000 m and can withstand periods of drought. I t
prefers a deep soil though it will grow in a wide variety of soils. I t does not however stand
waterlogging.
Propagation Most easily planted using stem cuttings having at least 3 nodes. Cuttings are planted
diagonally or vertically with 2 nodes below the ground. For good soil conservation, plant at a close
spacing along the contour. Otherwise for fodder production, plant at a spacing of 50 – 90 cm. After
cutting back top growth to ground level clumps can be divided and planted out.
Management To obtain the best food value cut regularly when leaves reach 100 – 120 cm. The plant
responds well to nitrogen fertilizer if available. Alternatively Desmodium intortum can be planted in
combination to improve the supply of nitrogen.
Uses Napier is a useful forage grass for stall feeding, though it can also be grazed. I ts feed value
however depends on the ratio of stem to leaf and on age. Young leaves have a much better digestibility
than older leaves, particularly if stems are present with the latter. The plant is valuable for erosion
control when planted in a continuous line along the contour at 2 m vertical intervals.
References Bogdan 1977, ‘t Mannetje 1992
170
Peponium vogelii
(Cucurbitaceae)
Common names I lomba
Description A creeper up to 8 m long, normally possessing rough hairs. The tendrils divide into two.
Leaves are 5 – 18 cm long and 7 – 26 cm wide and are 5 lobed. The leaf edge has sharp pointed teeth.
Flowers are bright yellow, opening at night and only seen in the early morning. The fruit is bright red,
hairy, thin-skinned, 15 cm long, and borne on a stalk 7 cm long. The fruit has a beak and contains small
dark seeds in fleshy pulp.
Ecology Found in upland and lowland rainforest, particularly at the edges and where there is a high
water table, in upland bamboo thicket, woodland and in bush near open water. Also present in rocky
places. Altitude range is from 100 to 2,400 m. Also present in West and Central Africa and south from
Ethiopia to Mozambique and in the Seychelles.
Uses The ripe fruit pulp is sweet and eaten raw. The unripe fruits are very bitter. The fruits are also fed
to pigs and rabbits. The dried powdered leaves are rubbed into scratches made in the skin to treat
leprosy in Tanzania. I n Kenya the leaves are used as a medicine for menstrual problems. The pulped
leaves are used to mature abscesses and furuncles in D.R. Congo. The ripe fruits are eaten for stomachache in Ethiopia. I n Burundi the leaf ash is sniffed for chest pains and the leaf ash is eaten for pain in
the side. A leaf decoction is drunk or given by enema as a purgative. To mature boils, leaf pulp is
applied as a dressing.
Remarks The plant can become a problem weed in cultivated land.
References Kokwaro 1976, Burkill 1985, Peters et al. 1992, Neuwinger 2000, Ruffo et al. 2002
171
Periploca linearifolia
(Asclepiadaceae)
Common names I ngururusi
Description A climbing herb or woody
creeper up to 10 m long. A white latex is
produced from the cut stems. Leaves are
narrow and pointed, 4 – 9 cm long and
0.2 – 1.2 cm wide. The flowers are cream
or greenish yellow, in bunches up to 15
cm long. Fruits are cylindrical up to 15
cm long and contain many seeds with
numerous white hairs attached at one
end.
Ecology Grows in hedges, on forest
margins, in riverine forest and secondary
bushland derived from forest, where it
scrambles over other plants. Altitude
range is from 1,700 to 2,400 m. Also
present in Kenya, Uganda, Burundi,
Malawi, Zimbabwe and Ethiopia.
Uses I n Umalila the stems are used for
tying. I n Marakwet, Kenya the latex is
applied to skin diseases and ulcers. I n
Burundi the leaf sap is drunk by pregnant
women to stop vomiting. A leaf decoction
is drunk for diarrhoea and insanity. A root
bark infusion or decoction is drunk or
administered as an enema for tapeworm.
A leaf or root decoction is drunk or used
for bathing for skin diseases. Leaves are soaked in water and used as a dressing for the treatment of
mastitis.
References Brummitt 1973, Beentje 1994, Neuwinger 2000, Burrows & Willis 2005
Near I tebera
172
Persea americana
(Lauraceae)
Common names I takapera (Malila), avocado pear
Ecology Originally from
Central America but now
grown throughout the
tropics and subtropics. I t
is
fairly
common
in
Umalila.
Mexican
and
Guatemalan x Mexican
hybrids are most resistant
to cool climates. Avocados
can be grown in a wide
range of soils but are
sensitive to poor drainage
and
water-logging.
In
areas subject to high
winds the trees should be
protected by being grown
in mixed stands with other
trees.
Left : Avocado flowering
in May near Mbawi
Propagation
Young,
vigorously
growing
seedlings, are used for rootstocks and the ends of leafy shoots for scion material. Guatemalan and West
I ndian races produce the best rootstocks but Mexican rootstocks have the best resistance to cold.
However they are not compatible with West
I ndian scions. Seed remains viable for 2 - 3
weeks and seed coats should be removed for
better germination. Plant in a nursery with seeds
35 cm apart and cover with no more than 1 cm of
soil. Young plants should be side grafted with
terminal tips 6 cm long, older stocks may be
shield budded. Budded and grafted plants can be
transplanted with a ball of earth round the roots
after about 18 months. They start yielding fruit
after 2 or 3 years compared with 8 – 10 years for
trees grown from seed.
Uses Mainly grown for its edible fruit which is
rich in fat, protein and vitamins. I t is the most
nutritious of all fruits. I t is reported that
satisfactory crops of fruit are set only if
honeybees are present in sufficient numbers
throughout the flowering period. As a bee forage
nectar secretion is affected by climate and soil
conditions. I t is abundant when humidity is high. Honey produced is dark with a strong flavour. Though
not common in Umalila it is said to be an important honey source locally. The wood is brittle and
attacked by termites. The tree has various medicinal and antibiotic uses. Extracts of leaves and fresh
shoots have shown anti-cancerous activity. The seed can be ground up and made into an ointment to
treat various skin problems such as scabies, infected wounds and dandruff.
References Purseglove 1968, McGregor 1976, Crane et al. 1984, Burkill 1995, I CRAF 1998
173
Phaseolus coccineus
(Fabaceae)
Synonym P. multiflorus
Common names Tandawala (Malila), multiflora bean, runner bean, scarlet runner bean
Description A climbing and
branching,
slightly
hairy
perennial up to 4 m tall,
which is frequently grown as
an annual. I t has thick,
fleshy, branched tuberous
roots. The stems twist and
are slightly ribbed. Leaves
are trifoliate with ovate
leaflets, 7 – 12 cm long.
Flowering starts 40 – 60
days after planting with
flowers opening at sunrise
and closing at
sunset.
Flowers are normally scarlet
but white forms also exist.
Pods are 10 – 30 cm long,
often slightly curved and
plump.
Ecology Runner beans are
grown widely in temperate
areas. They require deep,
well prepared, well drained
loamy soils of a light to
medium structure with a pH
of 6.0 to 7.0. Acid soils
should be avoided as they
reduce the activity of the
Rhizobium nitrogen fixing
bacteria. I t can only be
grown at altitudes between
1,950 and 2,550 m in the
tropics because the flowers,
which are insect pollinated,
are not fertilized at lower
altitudes.
Propagation Grown from
seed. These germinate after
10 – 14 days
Management I n Umalila runner beans are normally grown with the maize crop so that maize acts as
the support and no stakes or trellises are required. The beans can be grown without support if the
leading shoots are pinched out. This encourages a bushy growth. Pollination and seed production can
be increased up to 5 times by honeybees.
Uses Grown for dried seeds in Umalila. The fleshy fibrous roots are eaten in Central America though
these may contain toxic chemicals. Runner beans are grown for green pods in Europe. Bees visit the
flowers for nectar. A good flow of honey is obtained when there is adequate soil and air moisture during
flowering. The plant fixes nitrogen which benefits the accompanying maize crop.
References Johannesmeier 1975, Kay 1979, Tindall 1983, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Brink 2006
174
Phaseolus vulgaris
(Fabaceae)
Common names I mbonzo (Malila), mharagwe (Swahili), French bean, snap bean
Description Dwarf or bush types are grown in Umalila.
These are early maturing and 20 - 60 cm in height. The
taproot is well developed. Leaves are alternate on stalks
15 cm long, comprising 3 ovate leaflets 7.5 – 14 long and
5 – 10 cm wide. Flower heads are up to 15 cm long. A
number of varieties are grown.
Left : Maize is often inter-planted with beans.
Ecology Beans are frequently planted in March and April.
Some varieties do better than others if rain is very heavy.
Beans are sometimes planted between lines of maize in
August. The plant has a wide range of tolerance. Most
varieties are adapted to growing up to 2,000 m in soils
with a pH range between 5.5 and 6.5. Acid soils should
be avoided as they reduce the activity of the Rhizobium
nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Moderately heavy loam soils are
suitable. Pole beans give better results than dwarf
varieties in the rain season.
Propagation The seed is planted direct, 3 - 4 cm deep
with 4 - 5 seeds per site, spaced 20 – 25 cm in the row and
80 - 100 cm between rows. Rows should run across the
slope to limit erosion. Fertilizers are rarely used in Umalila.
Mrs Mwampamba with mixed beans (left), Maini (centre)
and Masusu (right). Varieties in mixed group include Sunga
wa pene, I nyangwa, Magwargwanje (has very good taste),
I njeru, Kambani, Kigoma, Ndirema and Kabarengete.
Management Weeding is important
Leaves being dried for later use as vegetables
until the plant flowers. Beans can be
harvested from 70 - 90 days after
planting and should be picked before the
pods split open. Aphids are an important
problem and can be controlled either by
treating the seed prior to planting with a
systemic insecticide or with a tobacco
solution spray (see p 157).
Uses Grown mainly for dried seeds though the young leaves are eaten as a vegetable. The leaves are
also dried and stored for later use. Bees are reported to visit the flowers.
References Tindall 1983, Stoll 2000, Raemaekers 2001, Messiaen & Seif 2004
175
Phragmanthera usuiensis
(Loranthaceae)
Common names Ulimbo
Description and Ecology A parasitic plant growing on many
cultivated and indigenous trees. This specimen was seen on
Dodonea angustifolia in I lomba forest, Umalila.
Uses The sticky latex from the fruits is used as a bird lime.
The fruits are opened and smeared round a long stick which
is then set up and watched to trap birds (see left).
Kumbikumbi (termites) are fixed on the top to attract birds.
The ash of burnt twigs is licked with salt to treat diarrhoea in D.R. Congo. Heated stems are applied to
treat pneumonia and general pain by
the Maasai.
Remarks Loranthaceae depend on
birds for pollination and have rather
firm, often red or orange flowers.
There
are
98
species
of
Loranthaceae
in
East
Africa.
Loranthaceae are not pollinated by
insects and often flower in the dry
season.
References Blundell 1987, Fichtl
and Adi 1994, Neuwinger
Vande weghe 2005
2000,
176
Physalis peruviana
(Solanaceae)
Synonyms Physalis maxima
Common names I nzungu (Malila), Cape gooseberry, Peruvian cherry.
Description
An annual or
perennial trailing to erect herb
up to 80 cm tall. Leaves are
alternate and entire. Flowers
are small, yellow and borne in
the leaf axils. Fruits are round
orange berries, 1 – 2 cm,
enclosed in a papery calyx.
Ecology Originally from Peru
but is now widely grown,
particularly in South Africa. I t
grows in waste areas, at forest
edges at altitudes between
2,000 and 2,600 m. I t can be
inter-cropped with maize. I t
thrives in full sun and is fairly
drought resistant. I t does not
like waterlogged conditions. I t
should not be grown in ground
previously used for tomatoes
or potatoes. Prefers a sandy,
well drained soil with a pH of
about 6.5 but will grow in a
wide range of fertile soils.
Propagation The berry is crushed, dried out in the sun and the seeds extracted. Seeds should be
stored in a cool place. Sow seeds 0.5 cm deep in a seed-bed choosing seed from strong plants with
large fruits. This is normally done at the beginning of the dry season. Germination takes 10 - 15 days.
Transplant seedlings to 10 cm apart in the nursery when they have developed 2 - 3 leaves. Cuttings
also take very easily. Transplant into the field after 2 - 3 months, with a ball of soil around the roots.
Management Plant out 80 - 100 cm apart and if possible
provide support stakes 1 m tall. I f the plants have not
produced flowers by the time they are 30 cm tall pinch out
the growing point to induce branching. The fruits are ready
to pick when they turn golden yellow and the calyx has a
papery texture. Ripe fruits can be left on the plants for 2 3 weeks. This improves the flavour. Fruits can be stored
unwrapped in their husks for several months. The plants
should be well weeded. Cut them down at the beginning of
the rain season as rain causes the fruit to rot. Plants can be
grown for 2 - 3 seasons. I t is useful to provide mulch to
avoid rain splash damage to the lower fruits.
Uses The fruit has a sweet, slightly acid distinctive taste and has a high vitamin C content. I t can be
eaten raw, cooked or preserved. I n Umalila it is often eaten with ugali (maize porridge). Each plant will
produce 500 gm - 1 kg fruit. The fruit makes a very good jam. Bees collect pollen and small amounts of
nectar during the long flowering period. Flowers are produced from February to April. Leaves are used
fresh as a vegetable and are not normally dried for storage. The plant has several medicinal uses.
References Watt & Breyer Brandwijk 1962, Martin et al. 1975, Moriarty 1975, FAO 1982, Baker 1986,
Dupriez & De Leener 1989, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Katende et al. 1995, Raemaekers 2001
177
Phytolacca dodecandra
(Phytolaccaceae)
Common names I bozya
Description A fast growing shrubby or woody climber to 7 m high or 15 m long. Nodes are up to 10
cm apart and stems can be 9 mm in diameter. Leaves are usually hairless, 4 – 15 cm long and 2 – 10
cm wide, oval to elliptic and have slender stalks, 1 – 5 cm long. The central flower stalk may grow 40
cm long with the scented flowers being red, white, yellow or green.
Phytolacca dodecandra growing beside a footpath near Shilanga
Ecology Frequently found on waste ground and in hedges. Also present in closed forest, wooded
savannah and on cultivated land up to an altitude of 2,000 m. Originally from tropical America but now
widespread from Guinea to East Africa and present in South Africa.
Propagation Can be grown from seedlings or from cuttings.
Uses Where the plant is common, both pollen and nectar are collected by bees. The plant is reported
as a bee forage in Ethiopia and Gabon. Young leaves are coarsely cut, cooked and used as a vegetable
in D.R. Congo, though elsewhere they are regarded as being highly poisonous. The fresh leaves have a
protein content of up to 6% . Leaves are also reported to be poisonous to livestock but are used to treat
scabies in D.R. Congo. Dried leaves are applied to cuts and swellings. The fruits are a good soap
substitute and are especially used for this purpose in northern Kenya and Ethiopia. They can be
collected when still unripe and dried for later use. They produce a good lather containing Saponin,
which acts as a poison to snails. I t has been noticed that water snails carrying bilharzia are reduced
downstream from where people wash their clothes with these berries. The juice can also be used for
killing mosquito larvae in ponds. Leaves are the source of a yellow dye. The roots are used in small
quantities as a remedy for round- and tape-worms.
Remarks The older leaves and berries are very poisonous.
References FAC 1951, Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Wild et al. 1972, Kokwaro 1976, Blundell 1987,
Konda et al 1992, Ambougou 1991, Mbemba & Remacle 1992, Bekele-Tesemma et al 1993, Fichtl & Adi
1994, Burkill 1997, Latham 2004
178
Pinus patula
(Pinaceae)
Common names Pine (name used in Umalila), msindano (Swahili), Mexican weeping pine, patula pine
Description
An evergreen
tree growing to 35 m with
light green foliage. I t normally
has a straight trunk producing
horizontal branches with the
ends turned upwards, but may
be forked. Bark grey to dark
brown, papery red-brown on
young branches. Leaves are
long slender needles 15 - 23
cm long in groups of 3. Trees
begin to bear fruit after 5
years.
Female
cones,
in
clusters of 2 – 5, mature in
two years to a shiny brown
and are 10 cm long, with an
oblique base. The yellow male
catkins are formed on the
same tree at the end of
branches and produce clouds
of pollen. Seeds develop below
the cone scales and are
released over a long period.
Ecology
Originally
from
Mexico,
it
is the most
commonly planted tree in
Umalila. I t is grown in large
commercial
plantations
in
Mbeya and other regions.
Suitable for high altitude areas
with moderate to high rainfall.
I t grows well when planted in
grassland and on deep soils
and even where the rainfall is
only 700 mm per annum. Rainfall however should normally be 1,000 mm per annum for good growth.
Altitude range 1,000 – 3,000 m.
Propagation Collect seeds by shaking the mature cones into a basket, rub off the wings with wet
hands and sieve out the debris. Seed can be stored for 6 months. Dry the seeds in the sun. Seeds
germinate between 35 and 60 days after planting. Seed should be planted in trays in fertile soil and
then planted out after 8 to 10 months. Growth stops if nursery techniques are not good and once
checked plants take a long time to recover. Many seedlings grow after felling, particularly after burning
the cut branches.
Management Space at 2.4 to 2.75 m, though wider spacing should be used on poorer sites. The tree
is fast growing and will produce mature timber in 30 – 40 years.
Uses Timber is soft, easily worked, fairly light, and pale brown in colour. I t can be used for rough
carpentry, firewood and posts if treated with wood preservative. I t is suitable for paper manufacture. A
good ornamental and shade tree.
Remarks Susceptible to Diplodia disease, especially if damaged. More susceptible to Armillaria than
cypress.
References Leloup 1956, Mbuya et al 1994, I CRAF 1998, Dharani 2002
179
Piper capense
(Piperaceae)
Common names Umupapa, mafundo
Description An evergreen shrub or tall herb up to 3 m high. The stems are soft, green and often
trailing. Stem nodes may be swollen. Leaves broadly ovate, glossy, deep green, with the upper surface
distinctly marked and the lower surface more or less hairless. Flowers are borne on a single whitish
spike 3 cm long. Leaves and fruit are strongly spicy-aromatic when crushed, with a peppery taste if
chewed.
Ecology A common plant of forest undergrowth in the wetter highland forests. Present throughout
Tanzania between altitudes of 1,500 and 2,750 m. Also present in Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, D.R. Congo,
West Africa and south to the Cape.
Uses I n Umalila the plant is grazed by cattle and used to treat swollen feet in livestock. The fruit is
used as a substitute for pepper and to stimulate digestion. I t is sometimes eaten raw but can also be
cooked. I t is reported to cause sleepiness. I n Kenya the seeds are used as a cough medicine and a
decoction of the roots as an intestinal worm remedy.
References Kokwaro 1976, Blundell 1987, Peters et al. 1992, Burkill 1997, FZ 1997, Neuwinger 2000,
van Wyk & Gericke 2000, Burrows & Willis 2005
180
Pisum sativum
(Fabaceae)
Common names I syababa (Malila), njegere (Swahili), pea
Description An annual, climbing herbaceous plant, growing from 20 to 30 cm tall, showing very
considerable variation in form and habit. The tap root is well developed and can grow to a depth of 100
cm. Leaves are alternate having 1 – 3 pairs of leaflets and ending in a branched tendril. The flowers are
white to purple, usually self-pollinated. Fruit is an oblong pod 3.5 – 15 cm long.
Ecology I n Umalila peas are planted
from April to June, after the rains. A cool
but not cold climate is required. Best
growing conditions range from 13 - 21°
C. An evenly distributed rainfall of 800 –
1,000 mm is required. Soils should be
free draining with a pH of from 5.5 – 7.0.
Propagation Seed remains viable for 1 2 years and if possible it should be
treated with a fungicide before planting.
Peas should not be grown on the same
land more than once in 3 - 5 years. I n
Umalila they are planted direct after
burning the residue from the previous
crop. Because of their soil improving
qualities they are often planted before a
cereal crop such as wheat. However they
are also planted after a fallow period.
They require a firm, weed free soil. Plant
5 - 7.5 cm deep. Seeds are usually
broadcast but better erosion control is
achieved by planting double rows 10 cm
across the slope allowing 60 cm between
the double rows. Allow 3 to 5 cm
between plants. Seed rate is 60 – 200
kg/ ha depending on variety.
Left : Peas growing with sweet potatoes
near Khatanta forest.
Management
Weeding
is
very
important, particularly from 3 to 8 weeks
after germination. The pea aphid may be
a problem in warm weather, causing
stunted growth and also be a vector of
virus diseases. Some varieties are resistant but effective control can be obtained using nicotine spray
(see page 157). The crop may also be affected by fungi if grown on wet, poorly drained soil. 2,000
kg/ ha is a good yield.
Uses Mainly grown for dry seed but young shoots are also eaten in Umalila. They are generally cooked
separately. Peas are a nutritious food crop with a protein content of approximately 21% . They are best
picked while still soft and green and cooked, or they can be harvested when dry, soaked in water and
then cooked. There are at least two local varieties - Mbagayeye (takes 3 months to maturity) and I haya
(2 months to harvest). Some varieties can take several hours to cook
References Hadfield 1960, Kay 1979, Messiaen et al. 2004
181
Pittosporum viridiflorum
(Pittosporaceae)
Common names I liova (Malila), cheesewood
Description A shrub or small tree to 20
m in evergreen forest. I t has a dense
rounded crown. Bark is grey and smooth,
seamed crosswise on older branches. I t
has a faint smell of liquorice. Leaves are
shiny above, alternate, usually crowded at
the ends of the branches. They are 5 – 18
cm long and 2 – 4.5 cm wide, the tip
being rounded, the base narrows to a
grooved stalk. Flowers are small greenish
white, sweet smelling, in terminal heads.
Fruit is a yellow capsule less than 10 mm
in diameter opening out to reveal a sticky
resin surrounding the red seeds.
Ecology Grows in well drained upland
areas in forests and wooded grassland,
and
along
stream
banks.
Found
throughout Africa from Guinea to Sudan
and Somalia and south to South Africa.
Also present in Madagascar and I ndia.
Pittosporum viridiflorum in I soho forest
Propagation The tree is most easily
grown from seed. Seeds should be lightly
covered and kept moist.
They take 8 – 12 weeks
to germinate. Seedlings
transplant easily. The
tree will grow in full sun
or light shade and is
fairly
tolerant
to
drought.
Management The tree
can be pollarded, lopped
or pruned and can also
be grown as a hedge.
Uses Bees are reported
to visit the flowers. The
wood is soft and mainly
used
for
firewood,
spoons etc., though in
South Africa it is used
for kitchen furniture and
Photo : Ben-Erik van Wyk,
shelving. Cattle, sheep
Medicinal Plants of South Africa, Briza Publications
and goats browse the
leaves. The bark is used as a dye and as a medicine for anaemia and for preventing abortion. A fibre,
used to make baskets, is extracted from the roots. I n South African an infusion of the roots is taken for
chest complaints and as an enema to treat dizziness. A decoction or an infusion of the bark is used as
an emetic or as an enema for treating stomach and abdominal pain, malaria and fevers.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Wild et al. 1972, Deschodt 1976, Coates Palgrave 1983,
Bekele-Tesemma et al. 1993, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Venter & Venter 1996, Van Wyk et al. 1997, White et al.
2001, Mutshinyalo & Reynolds 2002, Lovett et al. 2006
182
Plectranthus esculentus
(Lamiacae)
Synonyms Coleus dazo,
Coleus esculentus
Common names I numbu,
ivumbu (Malila), viazi maji
(Swahili),
Livingstone
potato, scrambled eggs,
wild potato.
Description A perennial
Plectranthus esculentus growing in a home garden at I lembo
plant with stems up to 90
cm tall growing from a
tuberous root. Stems are
square, hairy and have
pairs of opposite almost
stalk-less, toothed leaves.
Yellow flowers appear in
erect clusters before the
rains and before the
leaves. The tubers which
grow in a cluster at the
base of the stem, are soft,
hairy
and
sometimes
branched. They measure about 10 cm long and 2 cm across.
Ecology Native to tropical Africa. The plant is highly adaptable, able to grow in any climatic zone,
provided the rain is evenly distributed over the growing season and the soil is well drained. Minimum
rainfall requirement is 1,000 mm.
Propagation is normally by stem cuttings 10 - 20
cm long using sprouted tubers. Seeds can also be
used but they develop slowly. Small tubers are
stored in a cool place until they sprout and then
planted flat on mounds or ridges or in rows 50 - 100
cm apart allowing 30 - 100 cm between plants and
5 - 10 cm deep. Normally planted in October in
Umalila.
Management The plants are earthed up, once
they are growing, to avoid greening of the tubers.
The crop takes 180 - 200 days from planting to
harvest. Yields vary from 2 - 25 t/ ha. Tubers can be
briefly dried and stored for winter use
Uses The fresh tubers are eaten and contain
approximately 30% carbohydrate and 7.5% crude
protein. I n Umalila the variety in the top photo is
normally eaten raw whereas a second variety is cooked in stews or fried. Some people cook the tubers
with wood ash to reduce the bitterness. I n the past boiled and very soft tubers were given to children at
weaning and they are appreciated by people too ill to eat any other food. The tubers can be pickled or
dried for later use. They are scraped, washed and boiled or roasted and have a rather watery taste.
Remarks Cultivation of this crop is declining in spite of potential yields of between 13 - 25 tonnes / ha.
Nematodes can be a problem. Harvesting takes place from March onwards.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Harlan et al 1976, Tindall 1983, Crane et al. 1984,
Tredgold 1986, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Burkill 1995, van Wyk & Gericke 2000, Dhliwayo 2002, Schippers
2002
183
Plectranthus spp.
(Lamiaceae)
Common names I kwitwa
Description Evergreen, trailing or bushy perennials. Leaves are fleshy, simple, with soft to coarse
hairs, aromatic when crushed, and often patterned. Flowers tubular, 2 lipped, the upper lip being 3 – 4
lobed. There are 53 species of Plectranthus in East Africa.
Plectranthus masukensis (above) and Plectranthus
defoliatus (I vuguvugu)(right)
Ecology Commonly found growing in grassland and on
roadsides. Some species have a very limited range. Some,
e.g. P. defoliatus, grow well in semi shade and cool
conditions. Though shallow rooted, they are drought
resistant being able to store water in their leaves.
Propagation Use stem cuttings or plants can be divided.
Remove lower leaves of cuttings which should have at least
two nodes.
Left : Plectranthus caninus, grown as an ornamental
Uses Bees were seen collecting nectar from P. masukensis
from March to May and from P. punctatus in March and April.
Plectranthus species are also known to be important sources
of both nectar and pollen in Ethiopia. Other species are
important honey sources in Pakistan. Plectranthus species
have fly repelling properties. The leaves of P. caninus are
chewed to relieve toothache in Pare, Tanzania. I n Burundi a
leaf infusion of P. defoliatus is used to treat diarrhoea and
the dried pulverized root bark is used to remove internal
parasites. A number of species are grown as ornamentals.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Kokwaro 1976, Crane et al. 1984, Fichtl & Adi 1994,
Hankey 2001, Llamas 2003, Burrows & Willis 2005
184
Plumbago zeylanica
(Plumbaginaceae)
Common names Naluhalo (Malila), white plumbago, Ceylon leadwort, white flowered leadwort.
Description A straggling shrub from 1 – 2 m high, occasionally climbing to 4 m. Leaves alternate,
widest about or below the middle, 70 x 25 mm. White flowers are borne at the ends of the branches.
The flower calyx is cylindrical, over 10 mm long, and covered with long glandular hairs. When the fruit
is ripe the glands become very sticky, the calyx breaks off easily and clings to fur, clothing and even
skin.
Ecology The plant in the above photograph was
growing in a home compound at Yalenga. I t is
normally found in dry bushland throughout East Africa
up to 2,000 m, where rainfall is below 400 mm per
annum. The plant is widespread throughout the
tropics.
Propagation Can be grown from seed, cuttings or
division.
Uses Sometimes grown as a medicinal plant and also
as an ornamental. The active chemical is plumbagin,
an antispasmodic. I t contains vitamin K and has
antibiotic properties. I t is sometimes used to treat
tuberculosis and leprosy, but its high toxicity makes it
difficult to use. Reported as a bee forage in Umalila.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Wild et
al. 1972, Kokwaro 1976, Blundell 1987, Burkill 1997,
van Wyk et al. 1997, Neuwinger 2000
Photo : Cal Lemke, University of Oklahoma
185
Polygala virgata
(Polygalaceae)
Common names Baziwanga (Malila), pride of Manicaland.
Description
A fast
growing hardy shrub, 1
– 3 m high, with a short
life-span. This is the
largest
and
most
attractive species of the
genus found in the
Southern
Highlands.
The stems are slender
and without hairs. The
alternate, bluish-green
narrow leaves are up to
5 cm long and 0.6 – 1.5
cm wide. Young leaves
are hairy. The flowers,
which resemble those
of the pea family, are
borne in a terminal
inflorescence 10 to 20
cm long, and are bright
purple with a dark
purple tuft on top. The
corolla
is
usually
reduced to 3 petals with
the lowermost often
saucer shaped. Flowers
are
produced
from
March to November.
Ecology Widespread in
tropical Africa and in
South Africa. The plant
grows on the lower
slopes of bushy hillsides
and
along
stream
Polygala virgata flowering in October
banks.
Common
at
most altitudes in high
rainfall areas of Zimbabwe among scrub and on forest margins. I t is sometimes grown as an
ornamental.
Propagation Can be planted from seed or using cuttings with a heel. Seedlings often appear below an
existing plant and can be transplanted.
Uses I n Umalila the plant is reputed to give strength for work. Bees are reported to visit the flowers in
South Africa. Other Polygala species are known to provide both pollen and nectar to honeybees in
Ethiopia, though the honey flow may not be significant. An aqueous extract of the green parts is
reported to be effective against infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus.
References Jex-Blake 1957, Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Wild et al. 1972, Howes 1979, Cribb &
Leedal 1983, Fichtl & Adi 1994, van Wyk et al. 1997, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, White et al. 2001,
Jodamus 2004, Burrows & Willis 2005
186
Polyscias fulva
(Araliaceae)
Synonym P. ferruginea
Common names I mpembati
Description
A fast
growing
deciduous tree to 30 m, often with
a straight slender trunk to about 9
m before developing branches, like
spokes of an umbrella. The tree
has a flat topped crown. Bark is
grey and smooth and the leaf scars
are
prominent.
Leaves
are
compound, up to 1 m long, with 6
- 12 pairs of leaflets plus one at
the tip, each leaflet oval and
leathery, 9 - 20 cm long, base
rounded, covered with creamyellow hairs below. Flowers are
green-yellow, honey scented, very
small, in loose heads up to 60 cm
long. The main stalks have red
brown hairs. Fruit is small, black, more or less oval and often ribbed.
Ecology Found in the wetter highland forests and in the bamboo zone in Tanzania. Widely distributed
throughout sub-Saharan Africa. Altitude range 1,180 – 2,500 m, with an annual rainfall of 1,500 – 2,000
mm.
Propagation
Most
commonly grown from wild
seedlings, though in Umalila
the tree is also planted using
large cuttings. Seed can also
be
used.
Collect
fruits
immediately
they
turn
purple-black on the tree.
Allow them to mature in
shade for 1 - 2 days then
extract the seed by soaking
in cold water for 4 - 6 hours.
Squeeze out the seeds which
will float in the water, then
dry in the shade. Seed can
be stored for up to 2 years.
75%
of
seed
normally
germinates after 35 - 45
days.
Uses I n Umalila bees visit the flowers from April to July. The abundance of nectar and pollen make the
tree very attractive to them. Beekeepers use the regular and wide branching habit of the tree for
placing beehives. Firewood is of poor quality. Timber is light and soft, pale in colour, but is tough and
odourless so is used for food containers. Also used for making mole traps and beehives. Leaves make a
good mulch. The bark from small roots is pounded in water and drunk to relieve stomach-ache in
Umalila. The tree can be grown to provide shade.
Remarks The tree can be grown with crops as the high crown lets in sunlight and the leaves produce a
good mulch. This species is becoming rare in its natural habitat.
References FTEA 1968, Egli & Kalinganire 1988, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Mbuya et al. 1994, I CRAF 1998,
Lovett et al. 2006
187
Protea gaguedii
(Proteaceae)
Synonym P. abyssinica
Common names I nsega (Malila), sugar bush
h t
Description A shrub or tree from 2 to 8 m tall. Young branches are thick, hairy and orange-yellowish.
Older branches expose a rusty inner surface. Leaves are narrow and spear shaped, 10 – 15 cm long and
up to 2 cm wide. The tip of the leaf is blunt or rounded, the base tapers slightly. Flower heads are up to
10 cm diameter. Flowers are white with pinkish stamens and styles.
Ecology Widespread and often grows in colonies on stony, infertile soil. Altitude range 2,150 – 3,350
m. Also present from Ethiopia to Mozambique and in Zimbabwe. Protea species prefer a light neutral to
acid soil. They do not grow well in red soils.
Propagation Use seed or semi-ripe cuttings
taken from thin branches from the previous
years growth.
Uses Bees are reported to visit the flowers in
Umalila during May and June. Proteas are
known to be important nectar producers in
South Africa. The plant has a number of
medicinal uses elsewhere in Africa.
Remarks
P.
welwitschii
and
P.
heckmanniana also grow in the Umalila area.
Right : A Protea species in
flower in November
References Jex-Blake 1957, Wild et al. 1972, Cribb & Leedal 1982, Blundell 1987, FTEA 1993, Hepburn
& Radloff 1998
188
Prunus persica
(Rosaceae)
Common names Mafurisi
(Malila), peach
Description
A
small
deciduous spreading tree
growing to 8 m tall, but
frequently pruned. Fruit is
round and fleshy, rather
hard, up to 7 cm across,
though usually smaller,
yellow and covered with
short hairs.
Ecology The peach is a
tree of temperate climates
so is most suited to
altitudes of 1,000 – 2,000
m. Prolonged dormancy
may be a problem in the
lower altitudes of this
Peaches growing in farmland at I zumbwe
range. I t grows well on a
wide range of freely draining soils. The variety grown in Umalila, which is also common in Malawi, is
very hardy.
Propagation Grown either from seed or large
cuttings. The latter should be transplanted in the
dormant season. Mulch young trees if possible and
feed with liquid manure during the growing season.
Management Once the tree starts to produce fruit
the aim is to encourage plenty of strong new growth
each year to carry fruit the following year. Prune only
when the sap is rising, just as the young shoots
appear, and before the onset of the rains. I t is
sometimes necessary to cut back older wood which has become bare to young healthy replacements.
Avoid making large wounds because these encourage disease. Several branches can be left in the
centre of the tree. 10 – 45 kg. fruit can be produced per year from a tree. Trees start to bear after 3 - 4
years. Fruit ripens in November in Umalila.
Uses the small hard fruits are eaten raw or
cooked and are rich in carotene. Fruits are
sometimes sold in local markets. This variety is
used as a stock on which to graft or bud other
varieties (eg Mwera Hill - Malawi), (Waldo,
Shackleford etc - Kenya). The flowers are visited
by bees. The tree is a source of both nectar and
pollen and bees are important for pollination.
The timber can be used for firewood. Bark is a
source of a rich golden dye. The leaf is said to
be purgative. I t is also used in various countries
for whooping cough. The fruits can be fed to
pigs.
Remarks Trees can be affected by peach leaf
curl. This can be prevented by spraying plants
with a liquid copper fungicide (e.g. Dithane) or
by removing affected leaves and applying
manure to stimulate new growth.
References Jex-Blake 1957, Williamson 1975, Howes 1979, Baker 1980, Mbuya et al. 1994, Burkill
1997
189
Psychotria mahonii
(Rubiaceae)
Common names Kirausiku (Malila), large psychotria
Description
Usually a
small tree, with arching
branches, growing from 5
– 10 m high, but it may
occasionally reach 24 m.
The bark is black with a
pale purple slash having
black edges. Leaves are
leathery,
simple
and
opposite, with a short
petiole 0.2 – 3.5 cm long.
The leaf blade is from 3 –
23 cm long and 1.5 – 10
cm wide. Leaves are
sometimes
irregularly
dotted
with
bacterial
nodules.
Flowers
are
greenish-yellow, or cream
to white, about 5 mm in
diameter, faintly scented
in terminal heads about 6
cm in diameter, on a
slender stalk up to 6 cm long. Fruits are oval 5 – 6 mm wide, yellow turning red when mature.
Ecology An understorey tree in evergreen forest, forested ravines and river fringes and in open
grassland, often on
termite mounds in
eastern, central and
south eastern tropical
Africa. Also present in
eastern D.R. Congo,
Rwanda, Uganda and
from
Kenya
to
Zimbabwe.
Uses Reported as a
bee forage flowering
in October in Umalila.
The timber is used for
firewood
and
tool
handles. A decoction
of the stems and roots
is used as a gargle for
sore throats in Kenya.
References Kokwaro 1976, Coates Palgrave 1983, White et al. 2001, Burrows & Willis 2005, Lovett et
al. 2006
190
Pteleopsis myrtifolia
(Combretaceae)
Common names I nfita
Description A bushy, densely leafy shrub or tree from 3 - 12 m high, though, in closed forest it may
grow to 25 m. Bark grey to dark grey, rather smooth in smaller specimens becoming rougher with age.
Leaves are opposite, rarely alternate, approximately 9.5 cm long and 3 cm wide. They are usually shiny
I mbrasia lucida feeding on the leaves
green above with short soft hairs when young, tending to retain these hairs on the under surface. Apex
tapers, but sometimes may be rather rounded. Leaf edges tend to roll under. Leaf stalk is up to 10 mm
long, rather slender. Conspicuous leaf buds are sometimes present in the axils of the leaves or on fallen
leaves. Flowers white or cream to yellow about 5 mm in diameter, strongly and rather unpleasantly
scented and in short, few-flowered heads arising from axils. Fruit is greenish-yellow drying to light
brown, usually 2 or 3 winged and 1.5 cm long.
Ecology The shrub photographed was growing at the edge of a planted pine forest. Usually found at
medium altitudes in mixed woodland, thickets and in fringe forest beside rivers. Also grows on rocky
hillsides and stony outcrops. I n Zimbabwe it is locally common at low to medium altitudes in high
rainfall woodland and in wooded grassland, evergreen forest and river fringes.
Uses I n Umalila the leaves are eaten by an edible caterpillar = I mbrasia lucida (I ungu) which is also
reported to feed on Myrica humilis (I siwiziwe) and on Agarista salicifolia (I zenya). The species can
appear in large numbers. The caterpillars are starved for one day and then washed and fried with oil
and onions. They can also be cooked and dried for later use. Elsewhere in Tanzania the Hehe people
boil the roots of this plant in water and drink the decoction 3 times per day for venereal disease. The
roots are also cooked with chicken and the soup is drunk to cure sterility. I n eastern Tanzania a root
decoction is drunk to treat dysentery, sores and excessive bleeding during menstruation. The flowers of
Pteleopsis species are visited by bees in savannah regions.
References Wild et al 1972, Kokwaro 1976, Coates Palgrave 1983, Hepburn & Radloff 1998,
Neuwinger 2000, Lovett et al. 2006
191
Pycnostachys spp.
(Lamiaceae)
Common names I sale
Description Woody stemmed perennials or
soft wood shrubs with evergreen, narrow,
hooked leaves up to 30 cm long. Flowers are
dense spikes up to 12 cm long.
Ecology P. ruandensis grows beside paths
and in cultivated land, at the edges of
forests and in grazed land from 1,900 to
2,460 m. I n Umalila the presence of this
plant is said to indicate a fertile soil.
Pycnostachys orthodonta
Pycnostachys ruandensis
Propagation Stem cuttings strike easily. Seed can also be used.
Uses Bees were active on P. ruandensis. P. orthodonta is also reported to be visited by bees in Umalila.
Bees are known to forage for pollen and nectar on related species in Ethiopia.
References Wild et al. 1972, Troupin & Ayobangira 1985, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Brickell 1994, Bryant 1996
Nkwakwa Kailoni, a traditional healer with a wide
knowledge
of
medicinal
plants,
near
I lembo
192
Ranunculus multifidus
(Ranunculaceae)
Common names Kowenga or izumba (Malila), African buttercup
Description A perennial herb usually having erect stems up to 12 cm tall, but less frequently the stems
grow along the ground and root at some of the nodes. Leaves vary in shape, the final segments being
coarsely and irregularly toothed. Lower leaves have long stalks but upper leaves become smaller and
are eventually sessile. Flowering stems are much branched in the upper part with numerous relatively
small typically buttercup-like flowers borne at the ends of the branches. Petals 5, shiny-yellow, 3 – 7
mm long. and deeply cut.
Ecology Also found in Uganda, Kenya and from Ethiopia to Cape Province in S. Africa and west to
Nigeria and Angola. Grows in wet ground near rivers, ditches and streams, on moist slopes in bushland,
grassland or on the margins of forest at altitudes between 1170 – 3450 m. I t is the most common
buttercup in tropical Africa.
Uses Bees were seen collecting nectar and pollen in October. Because the plant grows beside water it is
often in flower throughout the year. Bees are also known to collect pollen and nectar in Ethiopia. Sap
together with soot is rubbed into heal wounds in Tanzania. I t is recorded that leaves are sometimes
used as a vegetable in Tanzania. Roots are pounded and boiled in water and the decoction drunk 2 – 3
times per day as an emetic by the Shambaa people. Leaves are also occasionally cooked as a vegetable
and the roots are eaten by young people in Malawi. The plant is however reported to be poisonous to
livestock.
References FTEA 1952, Watt & Breyer- Brandwijk 1962, Wild et al. 1972, Williamson 1975, Kokwaro
1976, Blundell 1987, Peters et al. 1992, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Neuwinger 2000, Burrows & Willis 2005
193
Rauvolfia caffra
(Apocynaceae)
Common names I siongoti (Malila), mpugupugu (Nyakyusa), mkufi, mwembemwitu (Swahili), quinine
tree
Description A much branched evergreen tree from 6 to 40 m high with a leafy spreading crown. The
tree resembles a mango in shape but is not so dense. Bark is light brown or greyish-white with irregular
fissures. All parts produce bitter, white latex. Leaves are shiny and dark green above, slightly leathery
and arranged in whorls of 3 – 5 towards the end of the branches. They are 2 – 50 cm long and 2 – 15
cm wide. Flowers are in large dense clusters up to 20 cm across with each flower being small, white and
sweet scented. The spherical fruit is in paired fleshy lobes, each being about 1.3 cm in diameter, green
at first, with whitish spots, changing to blackish – purple and wrinkled when ripe. I t has 1 or 2 seeds.
Water drips from the tree at certain times of the year.
Ecology Grows in mountain forests but is also widespread in lowland forests in eastern and southern
Africa between altitudes 500 and 2,100 m. I t is often associated with ground water.
Propagation Grows easily from seed and wild seedlings. Seed can only be stored for one month.
Germination is fast and reaches 80% after 2 weeks.
Management The seedlings transplant well and the tree grows fast and can be pollarded.
Uses I n Umalila the tree is sometimes used as a shade for coffee, the bark is used as a medicine and
the tree is reported to improve soil fertility. Beehives are hung in the tree and the flowers are visited by
bees. Wood is light, soft and pale white. I t is used for firewood, timber, grain mortars, beehives and for
flavouring beer. The wood is also used for doors, boxes, water troughs and drums. I t nails well. I n
Kenya the poles are used for hut building. Latex can be used as a bird lime. The bark is used for
treating high blood pressure and intestinal worms. A decoction of the bark is drunk for general body
swellings, rheumatism and pneumonia. Though the bitter latex has been used to treat malaria it is
ineffective. Root bark is used as a tranquilliser for high blood pressure.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Wild 1972, Williamson 1975, Kokwaro 1976, Coates
Palgrave 1983, Burkill 1985, Keay 1989, Beentje 1994, Mbuya et al. 1994, Hepburn & Radloff 1998,
Neuwinger 2000, ADP I sangati 2003, Lovett et al. 2006
194
Rhus natalensis
(Anacardiaceae)
Synonym R. glaucescens
Common names I sanyantwa, ishesheru (Malila), mkono chuma, mkumba (Swahili).
Description A much branched
shrub or tree, often scrambling,
up to 8 m high. Branches are
angular. Bark is grey, often
almost white and rough. The
young branches are pale and
dotted with breathing pores.
Leaves are trifoliate with the
central leaflet being largest, up
to 9 cm long and 1 – 3.5 cm
wide. Lateral leaflets are about
two thirds the size of the
central leaflet. Leaflets are
wider towards the tip and the
apex is broadly tapering to
rounded. Young leaves are red.
The leaf stalk is 2 – 4 cm long.
The
small
greenish-yellow
flowers are borne in loose
heads, up to 15 cm long. The
fruits are red when ripe, round, with a thin flesh and a waxy covering, 5 to 6 mm in diameter.
Ecology Grows in bushland and woodland, in riverine vegetation and especially on forest edges, often
on well drained sites, from 1 – 3000 m. I t tolerates a wide variety of soils. Present throughout Tanzania
and from Guinea to Somalia and the Arabian peninsular and south to D.R. Congo and South Africa. I t
can grow on a variety of soil types but prefers clay soils.
Propagation The tree can be grown from seed. These should be fresh and not older than 3 months.
Management Slow growing and can be coppiced.
Uses I n Umalila both green and ripe fruits are eaten. They taste acid but are refreshing. The fruits are
also used in brewing local beers. Roots are pounded and boiled and used to treat gonorrhoea, colds,
abdominal pain and hookworm. The leaves are crushed and put in a bath for women with prolapsed
uterus. Leaves are also pounded, soaked in hot water and the resulting liquid used to treat coughs.
Wood is used for firewood, tool handles and charcoal. Leaves and fruits are used for goat and cattle
fodder. Bark is made into a tea in Kenya. Poles are used in hut building in Kenya and twigs for
toothbrushes in Somalia. The tender leaves and shoots can be chewed. Root bark is a source of dye.
Rhus species are reported as important bee forage in savannah and mountain zones in Africa.
References Goode 1974, Williamson 1975, Kokwaro 1976, Coates Palgrave 1983, Burkill 1985, Peters
et al. 1992, Mbuya et al. 1994, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, Maundu et al. 1999, Neuwinger 2000, Dharani
2002, Ruffo et al. 2002, Simons et al. 2005
195
Rhus pyroides var. pyroides
(Anacardiaceae)
Synonym R. vulgaris
Common names I shesheru (Malila), mkono chuma, mlama mwitu (Swahili), fire-thorned rhus
Description A variable, hairy, branched tree from 1 to 9 m high. Bark smooth brown with yellow redbrown branches, often densely hairy. Leaves are composed of 3 leaflets, with the central leaflet larger,
4 – 11 cm long and 2 – 6.5 cm wide, dull green and softly hairy. Flowers are small, cream to greenyellow, in loose terminal heads, 5 – 20 cm long, all densely hairy. Fruits are red-brown drupes with thin
flesh, 3 – 5 mm across.
Ecology Common in upland evergreen bush, forest edges, river banks and savannah woodland often in
thickets and associated with termite mounds on hill slopes and valleys between altitudes 800 and 2,700
m. Found throughout East Africa and from Cameroon to Ethiopia and south to Mozambique, Malawi,
Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Propagation Can be grown from fresh seed.
Uses Both ripe and unripe fruits, called I sanyantwa, are edible. Wood is used for firewood and charcoal.
Stems are used for toothbrushes. I n South Africa the branches are valued for tool handles and fencing
poles. The plant is an important medicinal plant in East Africa. Fruits are pounded, boiled and the liquid
drunk to treat diarrhoea. The roots are pounded and the powder cooked with porridge, which is then
drunk to treat gonorrhoea. The bark is boiled and the decoction used to wash wounds. The leaves are
pounded and used as a treatment for piles. Stems are boiled and the liquid applied to wounds. Roots
mixed with other plants are used to make a drink for expectant mothers to ease delivery. Leaves are
used to treat haemorrhoids. The body is washed with a leaf infusion to treat delirium in Zimbabwe.
Rhus species are known to be important bee forage plants in the Afromontane climatic zone. Goats
browse the leaves.
Remarks A scratch from the bush may sting for some time.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, FZ 1966, Wild et al 1972, Kokwaro 1976, Coates Palgrave
1983, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, Neuwinger 2000, Ruffo et al. 2002
196
Ricinus communis
(Euphorbiaceae)
Common names I mbono (Malila), mbono (Swahili), castor oil
Description A much branched
evergreen shrub growing to 6 m
high, often branching at the
base. Stems are often red,
hollow with age with well
marked leaf nodes and scars.
Leaves are large, palmate, up to
50 cm across with 5 to 11 lobes
and have toothed edges. They
are dark green or red along the
leaf stalks. Young leaves are
shiny, soft and dark red-green.
Flowers are produced on upright
spikes up to 60 cm long. Male
and female flowers are borne
separately. The fruit is a spiny
capsule containing 3 seeds.
Ecology
I ndigenous to the
tropics and grows wild in East
Africa. Castor oil plants prefer humus rich soil and often grow in disturbed ground. They are sometimes
cultivated. They require a warm climate and are killed by frost. They can be grown over a wide area in
both high and low rainfall areas. The plant is drought and termite resistant.
Propagation I t is best to grow varieties that do not shatter on ripening. Seed is viable for up to one
year. Even germination is obtained by pouring boiling water over the seeds and leaving them to soak for
24 hours. Germination is normally 90% in 3 weeks. Sow 3 seeds per hole and thin out to one.
Uses Occasionally grown for oil which is extracted
from the seeds. Oil content may be up to 50% . This
burns with a clear light. I t can also be used as a safe
purgative. The oil is used commercially for paints and
varnishes and in lubricants and greases, hydraulic
fluids, soap, printing ink and various chemicals. After
extraction the residual cake can be used as a fertilizer.
The oil can also be used in insecticides and for wood
preservation, in anti-malarial sprays and to treat lice
and fleas and parasitic skin diseases. I t also has antibacterial uses. For medicinal use the oil is heated to
neutralise the highly poisonous Ricin. A decoction of
the leaves is held in the mouth to relieve dental caries.
The same decoction can also be used externally placed
on sores, rheumatism and abscesses. The plant is
sometimes used as a quick growing hedge. Bees were seen occasionally collecting nectar in Umalila
during October. The extra floral nectaries on the leaves produce much nectar. Large amounts of pollen
are obtained from male flowers. I n Umalila an edible caterpillar, I mbono, feeds on the leaves. All leaves
are stripped. The caterpillar is gregarious and the gut must be cleaned out before cooking. I t is grilled
until brittle, not cooked with water or oil.
Remarks Tanzania has been a major producer of castor seed. The leaves, seed coat and the oil residue
are poisonous to humans and livestock. Even a few seeds can kill a child who eats them.
References Purseglove 1968, Nair 1980, Crane & Walker 1984, I wu 1993, Burkill 1994, Fichtl & Adi
1994, Mbuya et al 1994, van Wyk & Oudtshoorn 1997
197
Rubia cordifolia
(Rubiaceae)
Common names I bambula (Malila), kifundo, ukakaka (Swahili), I ndian madder.
Description A climbing or creeping perennial, up to 10 m long. Stems are thin, green, square and
rough on account of short bristles. Leaves are in groups of 4, and are 2.5 cm long and 1.5 cm wide
borne on short stalks. Flowers are small and greenish yellow. The fruit is a black berry 3 mm in
diameter. Ecology The plant is commonly found growing in hedges. I t is common in the Southern
Highlands between altitudes of 1,100 and 2,600 m, on forest margins, in clearings in the forest and in
scrub and grassland. Widely distributed in Africa.
Rubia cordifolia growing over a bush near Yalenga
Propagation Seed should be sown as soon as it is ripe.
Cuttings can also be planted. Plants should be grown in light
shade.
Uses The flowers are reported to be visited by bees. I ndian
madder was formerly a major dye plant. I n Umalila the roots
are boiled in water and the liquid drunk to treat diarrhoea.
Elsewhere in Tanzania the boiled root decoction is drunk for
stomach disorders, and also used as an antidote for general
poisoning. Leaves and stems are pounded and the extract
administered for diarrhoea. Roots and fruit are used in South
Africa and Tanzania as an orange or reddish brown dye and
for staining floor-boards. I n Tanzania the ash is used as a vegetable salt to soften vegetables when
cooking. A wound dressing is made up in Kenya and Tanzania by rubbing leaves into a ball and applying
it to the skin, both to stop bleeding and as an antiseptic.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Wild et al. 1972, Kokwaro 1976, Cribb & Leedal 1982, van
Wyk & Gericke 2000, Zimudzi 2005
198
Rubus species
(Rosaceae)
Common names Ngondora (plant), itonongwa (fruit)(Malila), blackberry, bramble
Description Prickly scrambling bushes with hooked prickles growing up to 4 m long. A very variable
and complex group of species.
Ecology Sometimes found
in hedgerows in Umalila.
Also found at the edges of
forest,
in
clearings,
secondary
bush,
often
forming
thickets.
The
various
species
grow
between altitudes of 1,400
and 2,700 m.
Propagation
&
Management The plant
reproduces by seed but
can also be grown from
suckers. I t can be trained
to grow over a fence or
hedge to form a barrier.
Uses
Blackberry growing over a fence at I lembo.
Many
species
produce edible fruit which
is collected during the rain
season. An infusion from
the leaves is used to treat
diabetes in Ethiopia and
Tanzania.
Bees collect
nectar and pollen from
several species. Honey produced is white and has a delicate flavour.
Remarks There is confusion between the different species as many are variable in form. There are at
least 18 species in East Africa, including two
introduced species, R. niveus and R. ellipticus,
the latter being common in the Mbeya area. R.
pinnatus has up to 9 leaflets, white to pinkish
flowers and produces reddish black fruit. R.
volkensii has up to 7 leaflets, yellowish-white
flowers and orange to red fruit when ripe.
Stems are covered with brown sticky hairs. R.
schefflleri has densely hairy red to black fruit.
R. niveus has leaves with a white undersurface.
R. apetalus ( R. adolfi—friedericii) is from 1 – 3
m long, has hairy stems with scattered hooked
prickles, leaves with 3 – 7 leaflets. These are
oval and pointed, hairy green above and dull
white and hairy below. The pinkish-white
flowers produce red to purplish-black fruits. R. rigidus, R. steudneri, R. inganus and R. porotoensis are
also present in the Southern Highlands. R. steudneri has deeply furrowed stems up to 4 m long, 3 – 5
leaflets and pink flowers in large panicles and orange to dark red fruits.
References Williamson 1975, Cribb & Leedal 1982, Crane et al. 1984, Blundell 1987, Peters et al.
1992, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Maundu et al. 1999, Ruffo et al. 2002
199
Rumex nepalensis
(Polygonaceae)
Synonym R. steudelii, R. bequaertii, R, quarrei
Common names I syamo (Malila), dock, sorrel
Description An erect perennial
herb growing up to 1 m tall.
Leaves are alternate and up to
33 cm long, strap like with a
clearly marked central vein.
Flowers are borne close along
the branched stems. Fruit is a
glossy brown nut.
Ecology A weed of cultivated
land, but also found in grassland
and bush up to 3,000 m. The
plant is found throughout Africa
and is also present in the
Mediterranean area and into
eastern Asia.
Rumex nepalensis growing at the
forest edge.
Uses I n Umalila the leaves are
eaten to treat kwashiorkor.
Elsewhere in Tanzania the
roasted root is put on the area
around an abscess and the root
juice is drunk for abdominal pain
caused
by
parasites.
The
crushed leaf is sometimes sniffed
for the relief of headaches and
colds. I n South Africa a strong
decoction of the leaf is reported
to be effective in treating
bilharzia. The leaves are used to
dress wounds and to treat rheumatism and stomach-ache in Ethiopia. Bees collect pollen and nectar
from the flowers. I n Rwanda, Kenya, and Malawi, during times of food shortage, the leaves are
collected from the wild and used as a vegetable, usually mixed with other vegetable leaves.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Fichtl & Adi 1994, van Wyk & Gericke 2000, Jansen 2004
200
Saccharum officinarum
(Poaceae)
Common names I owa (Malila), muwa (Swahili), sugar cane
Ecology A few plants are frequently grown
around homes though some farmers grow
larger plots. Sugar cane prefers high
temperatures, fertile, and if possible heavy
soils, with a high rainfall. Adequate manure is
required.
Propagation Stem cuttings, from immature
canes 8 - 12 months old, are used for
planting. For best production the canes should
be topped a week before cuttings are taken
and only the top third of the cane used. They
should have 3 buds. Space plants at 1.5 - 1.8
m x 60 cm planting at an angle of 45° or flat
in the base of a furrow. Planting should be
done early in the rain season.
Left : Sugar cane being grown at Dickson
Mwahalende’s farm
Management Sugar cane is a perennial crop.
The first crop takes 15 - 16 months to mature.
After harvest the stumps are left to produce
two to four further crops, each taking about a
year to mature.
Uses Mainly grown for chewing which promotes
salivation with a cleansing action, as with a chewstick. Elsewhere Sucrose is extracted for sugar
and molasses for local use or commercial sale.
I ndustrial alcohol is made from molasses and can
be used as a motor fuel. Molasses is also used to
make yeast and as a stock food. Under certain
conditions the treatment of molasses with urea
converts sugars into a protein substitute which
can be eaten by ruminants. The fibrous residue,
bagasse, is used as a stock feed, often with
molasses, but can also be used to make paper,
cardboard and fibre board. Bees forage for sap
exuding from cut stems and from the burnt
canes.
References Purseglove 1972, Crane et al. 1984,
Burkill 1994
Right : A few plants of sorghum are
occasionally grown by farmers in Umalila.
201
Salvia coccinea
(Lamiaceae)
Common names I fipa
Description An erect perennial growing up to 2
m tall with soft woody stems and ovate leaves.
Ecology Commonly grown as a hedge plant and
for erosion control around compounds. The plant
originally escaped from gardens and can
sometimes be found growing wild in disturbed
land.
Propagation Can be grown from cuttings,
layering or seed.
Uses Bees collect nectar and pollen from the
flowers on the plant and also after they have
fallen. However they have difficulty getting to
the nectaries, and may use holes made by other
insects. A number of other Salvias produce good
honey flows, particularly after rainfall, e.g. S.
apiana, S. leucophylla, S. mellifera. S. merjamie
and S. officianalis,.
References Jex-Blake
1957, Howes
Crane et al. 1984, Fichtl & Adi 1994
Salvia leucantha
1979,
(Lamiaceae)
Common names Mexican bush sage.
Description A small
weak stemmed shrub
growing to 80 cm with
stems
and
leaves
densely covered with
whitish hairs. Leaves
are spear shaped and
often whitish beneath.
Flowers are
hairy,
white
or
violet,
arranged in long onesided racemes.
Ecology
I ntroduced
from
Mexico
and
cultivated in home gardens. The plant is also found in waste ground and beside roads. I t is common
around villages. I t prefers a sandy well drained soil in full sunlight.
Uses Bees visit the flowers for nectar which they collect from around the base. Flowers are produced all
year round. The flowers are showy and the plant is sometimes grown as an ornamental.
References Fichtl & Adi 1994, Llamas 2003
202
Satyrium shirense
(Orchidaceae)
Common names Shigogo
Description A slender terrestrial herb, 13 –
45 cm tall. The plant has 6 or 7 leaves, the
lowermost being sheath-like. The next 2
leaves spread out and are 5 – 14.5 cm long
and 2 – 6 cm wide, being broadly spear
shaped and light green. The upper leaves
are spaced along the stem. The flower head
is 3 – 15 cm long and composed of many
creamy-white flowers.
Ecology Found in mountain grassland and
bushland, rocky hillsides and moist slopes
from 1,750 – 2,500 m. Also present on the
Nyika plateau in Malawi and Zambia.
Propagation Can be grown from tubers
once the aerial part has died down.
Uses I n Umalila the tubers are washed,
cooked and pounded with groundnuts and
salt and eaten with eggs. They may also be
fried. Elsewhere in Tanzania other species,
e.g. S. macrophyllum and S. neglectum var.
neglectum , are dug up during and after the
rain season, peeled, cooked and eaten like
potatoes. They may also be peeled,
pounded and the flour baked into cakes to
be eaten with tea. The tubers can be stored
for several weeks if kept dry and cool. I n
Malawi the tubers of several species of
Satyrium may be mixed. They are washed
and pounded to remove the skin and
pounded again. They are then boiled in a
solution of potashes and the surplus liquid is
squeezed out and the product left to dry. I t
forms a very firm jelly, reddish in colour and
is often sold like this. The jelly is then cut
into strips and boiled with salt. When it is
cooked, pounded groundnuts are added.
The dish is very well liked because it
resembles meat, being red and having a
texture like gristle. There is considerable
trade from the hills to the plains in Malawi.
The flowers are known to be attractive to
bees.
Remarks The tubers and cakes are sold in
markets in the Southern Highlands. The
plants are becoming increasingly rare though
they can easily be propagated.
References Williamson 1975, FZ 1995,
Ruffo et al. 2002
203
Scadoxus puniceus
(Amaryllidaceae)
Synonym Haemanthus puniceus & H. goetzei
Common names I tindi (Malila), royal paintbrush, red paintbrush
Scadoxus puniceus in flower near Sasyaka in November
Description A herb from 30 to 40 cm tall with the inflorescence borne on a stalk 1 – 2 cm in diameter.
The flower head is an umbel of up to 100 tubular red flowers and is 8 -10 cm across and surrounded by
up to 8 large red bracts. I ndividual flowers are 6 – 7 cm long, including their stalks. The petals are 3
cm long, red inside, white outside with a green ovary. The large narrow leaves have wavy margins and
appear in a cluster arising from the bulb, which is 7 cm in diameter, after the flowers have died. There
are numerous purple spots on the leaf stalks.
Ecology Normally found in forests and woodlands between 1500 and 2300 m altitude. The plant usually
grows in shade though the above photo was taken in the open near Sasyaka. I t grows best in humus
rich, well drained soils.
Propagation By seed or offsets before growth commences.
Management Plants do not like being moved.
Uses Bees are reported to visit the flowers and are known to collect pollen from a related species S.
multiflorus in Ethiopia. A decoction of roots and bulbs, which are sliced and steeped in vinegar, is drunk
to treat coughs, stomach complaints and used as an emetic in South Africa.
Remarks The bulb is poisonous and has been known to cause several deaths in South Africa.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, FTEA 1982, Cribb & Leedal 1983, Brickell 1994, Fichtl & Adi
1994, van Wyk et al. 1997, Neuwinger 2000, Llamas 2003
204
Schefflera volkensii
(Araliaceae)
Common names I mogoro
Description A creeper or
tree which is sometimes
much
branched
and
spreading up to 24 - 30 m
tall. I t may grow as an
epiphyte on other trees.
Leaves are composed of 4 to
7 leaflets, each up to 15 cm
long by 7 cm wide. The leaf
stalk is up to 13 cm long.
Ecology Found in wet or dry
upland forest, sometimes in
Hagenia woodland or in the
bamboo zone 1,550 – 2,900
m.
Propagation Can be grown
Schefflera volkensii growing as an epiphyte near I nyala
from cuttings, wild seedlings
or from seed. Ripe fruit
should be collected from the
ground and gradually dried.
Seed is then stored in sealed
containers in a dry place. No
treatment is required before sowing.
Management The plant
requires supporting when
young in order to grow
straight.
Uses The flowers are an
important bee forage. Bees
were seen collecting nectar
from S. volkensii in June. A
related
species,
S.
abyssinica, is an important
source of honey in Ethiopia
having abundant pollen
and nectar. Honey is pure
white and granulation fine.
Another related species, S.
wallichiana is an important
honey plant in tropical Asia
producing up to 60% of
the total honey crop. The
wood is used for firewood
and charcoal. I t can also
A Schefflera species, probably S. goetzenii, growing in forest near
be grown as a living fence.
I zumbwe
The latex from this plant,
sometimes mixed with honey, is used medicinally to treat colds and coughs. The tree can be grown for
shade.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, FTEA 1968, Kokwaro 1976, Crane et al. 1984, Beentje
1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Katende et al. 1995, Neuwinger 2000, Burrows & Willis 2005 Lovett et al. 2006
205
Sechium edule
(Cucurbitaceae)
Common names I menyi, ikatawila (Malila), chayote, vegetable pear.
Description A vigorous, climbing perennial herb with a large tuberous root. The plant may grow from
10 - 15 m in one season. Tendrils are large and branched. Leaves simple and spirally arranged, 7 - 25
cm in diameter. Male and female flowers are separate but on the same plant. Fruit is a one seeded
fleshy berry, commonly pear shaped, furrowed, yellow green, 7 - 20 cm long. Fruits exposed to sun are
light yellow but in shade are dark green. They contain a single white seed.
Ecology Grown throughout the tropics but not very popular in Africa, though it grows well in Umalila.
The plant requires high relative humidity with between 1,500 – 2,000 mm rainfall at an altitude of
between 300 and 2,000 m. I t does best in rich well drained soil and is not tolerant to water-logging. I t
is susceptible to frost, drought and high wind. Tolerates high temperatures, though relatively cool nights
appear to encourage fruit development. Produces well in light shade.
Propagation A mature fruit, containing a germinating seed, is planted at a depth of two thirds of its
length in a prepared planting hole, with the widest end downwards or on its side. Plant rows at 100 120 cm with plants at 60 - 75 cm. I t can also be grown from stem cuttings 15 - 20 cm long. These must
be shaded and kept moist. Plants require supporting with poles or a trellis. Tubers do not develop until
the second year.
Management First fruits are ready for harvest at 100 - 120 days from planting and the harvesting
period continues over a long period. Replace plants after 3 years because of disease problems. I f tubers
are dug up individually the plant will continue to grow and produce more tubers.
Uses I n Umalila the leaves are eaten as a vegetable. They are cut up and either boiled or cooked with
oil. Young leaves are rich in vitamins A and C, the B vitamins, calcium and iron. Elsewhere the immature
fruits and tuberous roots are also eaten. Fruits vary in flavour from bland to sweet or starchy. The
tuberous roots can be cooked as a staple food. They are a good source of easily digestible starch. The
fruits, shoots and tubers can be fed to pigs, goats, poultry and cattle. The plant has a number of
potential medicinal uses. Leaves are reported to lower blood pressure and to be able to dissolve kidney
stones. The flowers are reported to be very attractive to honey bees and are produced throughout the
year. I n East Africa fibre is obtained from the stem.
Remarks Chayote is worth growing for its edible leaves.
References Grubben 1977, Tindall 1983, Crane et al. 1984, Dupriez & De Leener 1989, Engels &
Jeffrey 1993, Robinson & Decker-Walters 1997, SEPASAL 1999, Engels 2004
206
Senecio deltoides
(Asteraceae)
Common names Umuwula
Description A scrambling
perennial herb or creeper, 2
– 7 m long. Leaves are
partially triangular, 4.3 – 12
cm long and 2 – 6.5 cm
wide, base truncate to
cordate, with the margins
coarsely toothed. Flowers
are numerous in branched
terminal heads. Disc florets
pale creamy yellow to
yellow, corolla 3 – 5 mm
long,
with
the
tube
expanded above the middle.
Left : Plant in flower in the
forest margin of I shoho
forest near Yalenga in
October.
Ecology The plant is a weed of cultivation. Found in moist or dry forest or forest margins, secondary
bushland in the forest zone, at altutudes between 700 and 2200 m in Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe,
Swaziland and South Africa.
Uses The flowers are reported to be visited by bees in Umalila. Senecio apiifolius is an important bee
forage in South Africa particularly for building up colony strength. Bees collect pollen and nectar from
three other Senecio species in Ethiopia and several species are also visited by bees for nectar and pollen
in the United Kingdom. Senecio species are known to have long flowering periods. The plant has minor
medicinal use as an emetic in East Africa. A paste made from the leaves is used by the Xhosa people in
South Africa to treat sore eyes.
Remarks There are over 70 species of Senecio in East Africa.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Johannsmeier 1971, Howes 1979, Blundell 1987, Fichtl &
Adi 1994, FTEA 2005
207
Senna didymobotrya
(Caesalpinaceae)
Synonym Cassia didymobotrya, C. nairobensis
Common names I nuha (Malila),
peanut cassia, popcorn senna
Description A fast growing shrub
or small tree to 3 m high,
branching from the base. The
leaves are alternate, up to 30 cm
long with 8 - 16 pairs of leaflets
each 3 x 1 cm. Dense flower heads
appear from the upper leaf axils.
Flowers are golden yellow, cupped
and 2 cm across. Unopened
flowers are covered by dark-brown
or bronze bracts. Fruit pod is flat 6
x 2 cm.
Ecology Common throughout East
Africa up to 2,100 m, especially
beside ditches and on roadsides.
Also found in Ethiopia, Sudan,
Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, South
Africa and Mozambique.
: Senna didymobotrya
flower near I lembo in October
Left
in
Propagation Can be grown from
seed.
Uses I n Umalila the leaves are
reported to be soaked in water and
used to wash the face in order to
treat fits. A decoction of the leaves,
stems and roots is widely used in East
Africa as a purgative. A decoction of the
roots is used to treat mental illness in
Tanzania. The roots provide an antidote
to poisoning caused by the stem and
leaves. The leaves have a strong smell,
like that of peanut butter, which repels
bees. This is used in Tanzania to smoke
out bees when collecting honey. Senna
species fix nitrogen and can also be used
for green manure.
Remarks All parts of the plant are
know n to be highly poisonous.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk
1962, Wild et al. 1972, Kokwaro 1976,
Coates Palgrave 1983, Blundell 1987,
Neuwinger 2000, Llamas 2003
208
Shirakiopsis elliptica
(Euphorbiaceae)
Synonym Shirakia elliptica, Sapium ellipticum
Common names I gambo
Description A tree which normally
grows up to 12 m high, though
sometimes to 25 m. The bark is rough
and produces a milky sap when cut.
The branches droop down. Leaves are
alternate, with short petioles, dark
green, leathery, and widest below or
about the middle, up to 13 cm long and
2.5 cm wide. The leaf margin has
shallow rounded teeth. The yellow
female flowers are borne below the
male flowers on catkin like spikes up to
14 cm long. Fruit is a lobed, red to
dark-brown capsule 1 cm in diameter.
Ecology Most common in clearings and
riverine forest and also in mountain
evergreen bushland with annual rainfall
between 1,200 and 2,000 mm. Present
throughout tropical Africa and in South
Africa. I t is common in savannah
thickets in Uganda.
Propagation The tree can be grown
from seed extracted from the capsules
and also using wild seedlings. The
seeds are often attacked by insects so
should be collected as soon as they are
ripe.
Management The tree can be coppiced and pollarded.
Uses Bees collect pollen and nectar and the
flowers are very attractive to bees. The wood is
moderately tough and strong but coarse and
fibrous and does not last in the ground. I t is
liable to borer attack. Used for making tools and
furniture. I n Malawi it is used for making maize
stores and mortars. I n Tanzania a leaf
preparation is used to relieve pains in the head,
chest, back and shoulders, for sore eyes and
abdominal swelling. The root is eaten with
leaves and water to expel worms. I n Kenya a
decoction of the roots is used to cure coughs
and in Uganda leaves and roots are used to
treat mumps
References Wild et al 1972, Kokwaro 1976,
Coates Palgrave 1983, Pauwels 1993, Burkill
1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994, I CRAF 1998, Katende et
al. 2000, Neuwinger 2000
209
Solanecio mannii
(Asteraceae)
Synonym Senecio manni, Crassocephalum mannii
Common names I ntwitwi
Description A shrub or much
branched soft-wooded tree, up
to 7 m tall. Bark green to grey
green. Small branches are
marked with pale leaf scars.
Leaves are crowded at the ends
of the branches, and are 15 – 20
cm long by 3.5 cm wide. The
leaf margins are toothed and the
leaf stalk is up to 2 cm long
clasping the stem. The flowers
are borne in dense terminal
heads and emit a powerful,
unpleasant smell from dusk
onwards.
Ecology Grows at high altitudes
in dry or evergreen forest edges,
degraded or secondary forest,
also near water and on rocky
slopes in bush-land. Frequently
planted as a hedge in Umalila
and in Ethiopia.
Propagation
easily and
quickly.
Cuttings
take
the plant grows
Management Can be grown to
form a loose hedge.
Uses Frequently grown as a hedge plant in
Umalila. Bees were seen collecting pollen
and some nectar. I n Umalila people push
the stems into mole runs to clear them
out. Sometimes the stems are used to
support bananas bearing fruit. The plant
has a number of medicinal uses, for
example the roots are used as a purgative,
and to treat intestinal worms, dysentery
and indigestion in East Africa.
Right : Solanecio mannii in
flower near I zumbwe in August
Remarks The leaves of some related
species are eaten as vegetables.
References Wild et al. 1972, Kokwaro
1976, Coates Palgrave 1983, Burkill 1985,
Blundell 1987, Beentje 1994, Fichtl & Adi
1994, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, Neuwinger
2000, Schippers 2002
210
Solanum scabrum
(Solanaceae)
Synonym S. guineense, S. melanocerasum
Common names I nsungwe kali (name used in Umalila), mnavu (Swahili), African nightshade, black
nightshade
Description A woody annual or short lived perennial herb with strong green or purple stems which are
either round or winged. Plants are usually about 60 cm high but can grow to 120 cm or more. There are
both small and large leaved cultivars with different leaf shapes and the leaf colour can be either green
or dark-purple. Flowers are either white or have a purple tinge. Fruits are 10 – 16 mm in diameter. The
dark purple fruits have a distinct bloom when young and become glossy when they get older. I t is the
only species whose berries remain on the plant at maturity.
Ecology Occasionally found in forested areas in Umalila. I t is more common in West Africa and many
different varieties can be seen, often of local importance only. I t is cultivated in several locations in
Africa’s humid highlands but less in the lowlands. I t prefers fertile sandy loams with a pH of 6 – 6.5 and
adequate organic matter. The plant is also present in Europe, I ndia, China, the Philippines, Australia,
New Zealand, North America and the Caribbean.
Propagation Grown from seed or cuttings. Seed can be sown either direct or in a nursery and
transplanted. Mix the seed with sand or dry soil so that it is spread more evenly. Manure or ashes
should be added to the soil for good growth. Seed can be sown in lines 20 – 30 cm apart or broadcast
and then covered with a thin layer of soil. Transplant seedlings when 6 – 8 cm tall. Space in the field at
40 cm by 40 – 60 cm. Seed can be stored for several years if kept dry and cool. I f cuttings are used
these should be taken from the main stem and be 20 – 30 cm long. Lower leaves should be removed.
Uses I n Umalila the leaves and shoots are occasionally cooked and eaten as a vegetable though
Solanum umalilaense is preferred. Elsewhere in Africa they are more commonly eaten as a vegetable.
The leaves have a bitter taste which can be partially removed by changing the cooking water. Dried
leaves can be stored and added to soup. I f dried in the shade nutrient loss will be minimal. The plants
are also used medicinally in East Africa. The fruits are eaten to treat stomach ulcers and stomach-ache.
References Martin et al. 1998, Burkill 2000, Fontem & Schippers 2004
211
Solanum tuberosum
(Solanaceae)
Common names I ntafwanya (Malila), kiazi cha kizungu (Swahili), potato
Description
Several
local
varieties
are
popular in Umalila:Kagiri (for chips) and
Sasamuka, Arik and Lot
(for
boiling).
Kenya
Akiba and Atzimba have
good resistance to late
blight disease. Tuber
growth often continues
after flowering in East
Africa providing there is
sufficient moisture in
the soil.
Ecology Altitude range
from 1,200 - 2,900m.
Potatoes require fertile
soils. Soil must be free
draining. Heavy soils
restrict tuber growth
and make harvesting
difficult. Bacterial wilt,
Two local varieties. Nalwinji (left) and Sasamuka (right)
which causes plants to
wilt even when there is adequate moisture, can only be controlled by using clean seed and uninfected
land. Resistant varieties are being developed.
Propagation Potatoes are normally planted from April to July in Umalila. They are ridged up some time
after planting. “ Seed” potatoes for planting should be 3 – 6 cm in diameter. They should not be cut as
this makes them prone to disease and pest damage. Soft, flabby seed should also not be used.
Sprouting normally takes place at the “rose” or broad end and all but the two strongest sprouts should
be rubbed off. I t is important to chit seed before planting. Spread the potato seed on trays no more
than 2 to 3 tubers deep, away from sunlight. This encourages the development of strong, short, green
healthy sprouts after several weeks. Planting with chitted seed ensures that the crop starts growing
immediately it is planted. Plant, with sprouts pointing upwards, in rows 90 cm apart, to allow sufficient
soil for earthing up. Plant seed 10 cm deep with plants spaced 23 – 30 cm apart in the row. Careful
earthing up avoids greening of the tubers and tuber moth damage. I t also conserves water and soil and
gives ideal conditions for tuber growth. Only when the stem nodes are covered with soil will they form
tubers.
Management Late blight is an important disease and in Umalila potatoes are planted after the main
rain season to minimize damage. The disease can be controlled by regular chemical spraying using
Dithane or a copper based solution. When the crop is ready, cut off the tops 2 - 3 weeks before
harvesting. This allows the skin to harden making the crop easier to transport and store without rotting.
Uses An important root crop at higher altitudes in Njombe and Mbeya Districts, having a greater yield
potential than maize.
Remarks Moles can be a problem and are trapped or poisoned. I t is said that I nuha ( Tagetes minuta)
or I ntwitwi ( Solanecio mannii) stems can be pushed into their holes to get them to move away. Stored
potatoes are attacked by tuber moth. This can be controlled using a pyrethrum spray. Potatoes cannot
be stored for long in East Africa because the high temperatures encourage sprouting. They are best
stored in the soil though there is the risk of nematode damage if they are left in dry soil for more than 4
- 6 weeks. Average yield is 5 - 7 tons per ha. With good blight control this could be increased to 15 - 20
tons per ha.
References Hadfield 1960, Acland 1977, Raemaekers 2001
212
Solanum umalilaense
(Solanaceae)
Common names I nsungwe
Description Leaves small, up to 3 cm
long, on a leaf stalk up to 1.5 cm long. The
plant branches low down producing a small
bush. Each branch produces a large
number of flowers in a simple or complex
inflorescence, which turn the whole bush
white during flowering. The numerous fruits
which are never more than 4 mm in
diameter are bitter and not eaten. They
turn yellow-brown when mature.
Left : Plant in flower in a vegetable garden
Ecology Cultivated in Mbeya region Mbeya, Mbozi and Rungwe districts (Malila,
Safwa, Nyhia and Nyakyusa).
Propagation Planted from seed. Branches
are first heaped over the seed-bed and set
on fire so that the soil is partially sterilized.
Manure is added and the seeds are then
sown.
Management Seedlings are transplanted
to stand 40 cm between rows and 20 cm in the row. The leaves can be picked 3 to 4 weeks after
planting out and picking continues for about two months until flowering commences. The leaves then
become bitter.
Uses
An
important
vegetable
in
Umalila.
Leaves
are
commonly
eaten with maize porridge
or I rish potatoes. They are
available in November and
December and then from
February to May.
Right : Leaves being sold
in I lembo village
Remarks This is a new
species whose identity was
determined
at
the
university of Nijmegen (Pays-Bas).
References Schippers 2004
213
Sparrmannia ricinocarpa
(Tiliaceae)
Common names I nsabi, ingwayuzi
Description A woody herb or scrambling shrub 0.5 to 3 m tall. Older twigs have network markings.
Leaves are densely hairy, have 3 – 7 lobes, and are 3 – 13 cm long and 2 – 12 cm wide. The pink to
mauve flowers are produced
over a long period. Fruit is
brown and covered in 2 – 3
cm long bristles which catch
on clothing and animal fur.
Ecology
Grows
on
wasteland on roadside and
forest margins or in forest
clearings, riverine forest and
secondary bushland where
forest
has
disappeared.
Occurs from the Cape in
South
Africa
north
to
Ethiopia.
Uses
Bees
were
seen
collecting pollen in April.
Bees are also known to
collect pollen and nectar in
Ethiopia. Other Sparrmannia
species are reported to be visited by bees elsewhere. The stem yields a good fibre which the Maasai use
for making rope.
References Coates Palgrave 1983, Beentje 1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Hepburn & Radloff 1998
214
Spermacoce dibrachiata
(Rubiaceae)
Synonym Borreria dibrachiata
Common names I kuwi
Description An annual or biennial herb up to 75 cm tall with single or branching stems, sparsely to
densely covered with hairs. The leaves are 4.5 – 12 cm long by 2.8 cm broad. Blue to violet-blue
flowers are borne in heads 2.5 cm long.
Ecology One of the commonest species of Spermacoce in the Southern Highlands. I t is found
throughout Tanzania and from Rwanda to D.R. Congo and from Zimbabwe to Angola up to an altitude
of 2,250 m. I t grows in a variety of habitats
from woodland to grassland and even in
cultivated areas. The plant photographed was
seen growing beside the road.
Uses Bees were collecting pollen in the
morning in April. Bees are known to collect
pollen and nectar from S. sphaerostigma in
Ethiopia and other species of this family. A root
infusion is used medicinally in Zimbabwe to
treat dizziness, coughing and hepatitis.
Remarks 12 species of Spermacoce
present in the Southern Highlands.
are
References Kokwaro 1976, Cribb & Leedal
1982, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Hepburn & Radloff
1998
215
Steganotaenia araliacea
(Apiaceae)
Common names Nyongampembe (Malila), pop-gun tree, carrot tree
Steganotaenia araliacea in a home garden near I lembo
Description A shrub or small tree from 5 to 8 m high. The trunk is crooked and the branches are thick.
The bark is thick and corky. Leaves are borne on a common stalk, 15 - 40 cm long, which is swollen at
the base and clasping the stem. The leaves are crowded at the end of the branches, each having 5 - 9
leaflets. The white flowers are produced in compound heads before the leaves appear.
Ecology Found in woody savannah throughout tropical Africa, especially at low altitudes and on rocky
outcrops.
Propagation Wild seedlings or cuttings are used for propagation. Seeds are difficult to collect.
Management The tree is fast-growing and can be coppiced and pollarded.
Uses Wood is soft and brittle and mainly used for firewood, carving and farm tools. The whole plant is
aromatic, resembling fennel or carrot, and is used to perfume garments. The plant is known to be
strongly emetic. The roots are used to relieve sore throats, asthma and infertility in southern Africa.
Bees are reported to collect pollen and nectar in Ethiopia. Children use the hollowed-out stems as peashooters.
References Wild et al. 1972, Coates Palgrave 1983, Keay 1989, Bentje 1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994,
Katende et al. 2000, Neuwinger 2000, van Wyk & Gericke 2000
216
Sw ertia usambarensis
(Gentianaceae)
Common names
Description An erect, hairless herb up to 50 cm tall, with a stem that branches near the base or near
the top. The spirally arranged basal leaves widen towards the tip. Stem leaves are long and narrow. The
white to pale blue flowers are borne in loose heads. Flowers may have short or long petals and have
two nectar producing pits at the base of each petal.
Ecology Found in short, dry grassland at altitudes from 1,800 to 2,500 m. Common on shallow soils
and short mountain grassland in Kenya and Tanzania and also present in Zimbabwe, Mozambique and
Ethiopia.
Uses I n Umalila the roots are used to treat stomach-ache. Bees collect pollen and nectar from S.
abyssinica in Ethiopia.
References Blundell 1987, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Mabbereley 1997, Burrows & Willis 2005
217
Syzygium cordatum
(Myrtaceae)
Common
names I fwomi (Malila), mpegele
(Nyakyusa), msambarau (Swahili), water-berry tree,
water boom.
Description A fairly fast growing evergreen tree up
to 20 m high with a rounded crown. Trunk short
and sometimes buttressed. Twigs are square in
cross section with winged edges. The leaves are
borne at the end of branches and clasp the stem in
opposite pairs. They are oblong to circular, up to
13.5 cm long, bluish green above, paler below.
Flowers are fragrant and produce large amounts of
nectar. The fruit is up to 1.5 cm long.
Ecology The tree is found beside fresh water in
East, Central and southern Africa. I t occurs at
medium to higher altitudes, along water-courses,
often in thickets and forests. I t is fire resistant.
Propagation Remove the flesh from the seed
and sow before it dries. Germination is very
good and uniform up to 100% after 7 to 20
days, but seed is only viable for one day.
Seedlings are hardy and transplant well.
Uses Bees are important for pollination and, as
flowering often takes place over long periods,
with abundant nectar secretion, a good honey
flow results. Timber is used for construction and
furniture. The wood is medium hard and heavy
and works well but should be water
seasoned. I t is particularly good for
boat building, as it is resistant to
borer attack and does not rot in
water. I t makes a good fuel-wood.
The tree is planted for erosion
control and to stabilize river-banks.
The fruit is edible, slightly acid and
made into jam or a drink by being
broken open and left to stand in
water for some hours. A dye is
produced from the bark. The root
or a decoction of the bark is drunk
to ease indigestion. The wood
smoke has a pleasant smell and is
sometimes used to season gourds.
References Watt & Breyer Brandwijk 1962, Kokwaro 1976, Coates Palgrave 1983, Crane et al. 1984, Tredgold 1986, Beentje 1994,
Mbuya et al. 1994, Venter & Venter 1996, van Wyk 1997, I CRAF 1998, Maundu et al. 1999, Carolus
2004, Lovett et al. 2006
218
Tagetes minuta
(Asteraceae)
Common names I nuha (Malila), khaki weed, Mexican marigold.
Description An erect, strong smelling annual herb, 1 – 2 m tall, very variable in habit, having deeply
divided leaves and 4 to 6 pairs of toothed leaflets. The under surface of the leaves bear a number of
small glands which exude a strong, unpleasant aroma when crushed. The creamy-yellow flowers, 5 mm
across, are grouped in terminal heads. Seed is black, spindle shaped, with 4 short but sharp awns at the
apex.
Ecology
A common
plant in grass and crop
land
in
Umalila.
Originally from South
America. A troublesome
weed at altitudes from
760 to 2,210 m.
Uses I n Umalila this
plant is put on the floor
and around houses to
keep ants away. Also
used in Tanzania and
Zimbabwe
to
keep
weevils out of grain
stores. Place a layer of
crushed plants below
grain and another on
top to keep pests away.
Alternatively pound the
dried leaves and seeds
to a powder and mix 20
litres of grain with 0.25
litre
powder.
An
essential oil, obtained
Tagetes minuta in flower on roadside
by distilling plants as
they produce seed, is suggested as a fly and vermin repellent. I t is reported to be effective for killing
maggots in wounds and can be rubbed into the fleece of sheep to prevent blow-fly infection. Tagetes
species have fungicidal, insecticidal, nematicidal and insect repellent properties. Place large quantities of
crushed flowers (roots and leaves can also be added), in a bucket of water. Leave to stand for 5 - 7
days and stir each day. When decayed, strain through a cloth and keep the liquid. Dilute with equal
amounts of soapy water. Use potash based soft soap that is used for washing dishes, not modern
washing powders that contain caustic soda, as they will harm plants. Spray once per week on plants to
repel aphids, caterpillars, diamond back moths, ants, termites. The liquid is reported to help potatoes,
beans, tomatoes, and peas resist blight, mildew and other fungal diseases. I f a sprayer is not available
the liquid can be shaken onto plants with a whisk made from branches or grass. Mexican marigold, in
combination with chillies, garlic and onions can be used to deter most insects. Decayed flowers, leaves
and stalks can be used as a mulch around the base of plants to deter pests. A rotation of Tagetes
minuta will kill off root-knot nematodes in the soil as the roots give off a substance which poisons
them. Effective treatment occurs over a period from 42 to 70 days.
Remarks Beekeepers should take care that clothes and hands do not smell of this plant as it can make
bees aggressive.
References Uphof 1968, Wild et al. 1972, Blundell 1987, HDRA 1998, HDRA 2000, Stoll 2000
219
Tecomaria nyassae
(Bignoniaceae)
Synonyms T. capensis subsp. nyassae
Common names I ntwati (Malila), Cape honeysuckle
Description An evergreen
multi-stemmed
shrub,
climber or small tree,
growing to 4 m high. Bark
pale brown spotted with
lenticels. Branches root
where they touch the
ground. The leaves are
opposite,
compound,
glossy,
15
cm
long,
composed of 2 - 5 oval
leaflets with a larger
terminal
leaflet
having
toothed
edges.
Flower
heads are composed of red
trumpet shaped flowers, 5
cm long, produced most
commonly after the rains.
Fruit is an oblong capsule
up to 10 cm long.
Left : Tecomaria capensis
growing beside
near I lembo
a
track
Ecology A shrub of forest
or grassland from Tanzania
to South Africa. Sometimes left on field boundaries in Umalila. I t is also found along drainage lines in
dense woodland. Grows in full sun or semi-shade.
Propagation Most easily grown from cuttings
taken from hardwood after flowering. Cuttings
should be 10 cm long and all but the top two leaves
should be removed. Suckers are frequently
produced and can be removed and planted out
during the growth period. The plant can also be
layered very easily. I t can be grown from seed.
Management
Suitable for growing as an
ornamental bush, hedge or as a single stemmed
tree. Pruning is known to encourage flowering.
Uses Honeybees frequently collect pollen and
nectar from this plant which often flowers over a
long period. I n Umalila the young shoots are
chewed to relieve stomach-ache. I n Tanzania timber
is used for hut poles and making doors. I n South
Africa the powdered bark is used to treat fever,
pneumonia, bleeding gums and stomach pain. T.
capensis is browsed by livestock.
References Jex-Blake 1957, Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Bryant 1996, Venter &
Venter 1996, Mutshinyalo 2001, Dharani 2002
220
Telfairia pedata
(Cucurbitaceae)
Synonyms Ampelosicyos scandens
Common names I tandu (Malila), mkweme (Swahili) oyster nut, Zanzibar oil vine
A single oyster nut plant growing over a bamboo trellis near Yalenga
Description A perennial climbing vine up to 30 m long
having stout woody stems and branched tendrils. Male and
female flowers are normally borne on different plants
though in Umalila monoecious plants may be present and
flowers may be pink or white. Fruit is large, 45 – 60 cm
long, 20 cm diameter, weighing up to 15 kg. I t has 10 - 12
deep ridges longitudinally and the fruit stalk is sometimes
constricted near to the fruit. Each fruit bears 80 – 170
White flowered variety
Red flowered variety
seeds. Seeds are circular, flattened, up to 4.5 cm in diameter, yellow or brown, with no obvious rim,
and are covered with a network of fibrous material. The plant is hardy, deep rooted and drought
resistant. I t can produce for 20 years or more. Two crops may be produced each year.
Ecology I ndigenous to tropical Africa, probably originating in East Africa. Fairly commonly cultivated in
Umalila at 2,000 m. Sometimes grows wild in lowland rain forest and riverine forest. I ndigenous to
Usambara mountain forests in Tanzania. Also grows in Rwanda, Mozambique, Zanzibar, Pemba and
Uganda. Though it grows fast at low altitudes, the plant lives longer at higher altitudes. I t does well on
221
medium loams with good drainage and an annual rainfall of 900 mm. I t does not grow well in areas
affected by strong winds.
Propagation Can be grown from seed or cuttings.
The seed should not be older than 3 months,
preferably plant within one month of harvest. Up to
75% germination takes pace after 3 - 4 weeks. I t is
best to soak seeds in water for up to 5 days before
planting. Plant in containers and then plant out in
the field as soon as the seedlings reach 45 cm. I f
possible provide adequate manure when planting
out. I n Umalila normally one plant is grown near the
home, often next to the livestock enclosure, on a
trellis 2 m high or over a tree, a wild fig for
example. The plant is fast growing attaining 6 m in
the first 6 months.
Management Plants were grown in Kenya using a
double wire trellis arch of similar height to that for
passion fruit. The fruits then hang down and seeds
can be collected from the ground when the fruits
break off and drop. However the plant seems to
prefer growing over trees, which it does almost
smothering them. Sexes are normally separate and
must be grown together to get fruit. Fruits take 4
months to mature. The nut stores fairly well. To
open cut round edge to separate fibrous coat then
lightly tap edge or continue to cut until two halves
separate.
Maturing fruit at Yalenga
Uses Traditionally the kernels were the main
source of cooking oil in Umalila. The kernel is
edible fresh but is also pounded and added to
vegetables ( Brassica oleracea and/ or Vigna
unguiculata in Umalila). The Chagga people use
the seed as a tonic after childbirth. The kernel
can be roasted, makes a good pickle and can be
used in soup. The thin seed coat is bitter, but this
can be removed fairly easily. The kernel contains
26% protein and yields up to 66% of a sticky oil
known as Castanha oil. The oil is suitable for
making soap and candles and is used as a
medicine for stomach troubles and rheumatism in
East Africa.
Remarks The production of oyster nuts has never become very popular because a) the problem of
providing adequate support. b) the difficulty of mechanizing the removal of seed coat. However the nuts
are a traditional and valuable source of protein and have a ready sale in local markets.
References Poppleton 1939, Greenway 1945, FTEA 1967, Williamson 1975, Kokwaro 1976, Tindall
1983, Mamillan 1991
222
Many houses have a hole in the wall
to allow chickens to come and go.
The hole can be blocked off with a
brick as necessary, to keep hens in
until they have laid or to prevent
snakes from entering.
A beehive probably damaged by a black
spotted genet
223
Tephrosia vogelii
(Fabaceae)
Common names Utupa (Malila), kibazi, mtupa (Swahili), fish poison bean
Description A much branched shrub
from 0.5 to 4 m high. Plants are
normally self-pollinating though large
carpenter bees have been reported
as the principal pollinators. Honey
bees collect pollen and nectar from
plants and contribute to pollination.
Ecology The plant
is native to
tropical Africa. I t is found in a wide
variety of habitats including savannah
and forest margins. I t will grow on
poor soils, but is slower growing and
more prone to disease under such
conditions. I n acid soils it grows
Leucaena
much
better
than
leucocephala, forming root nodules
and fixing atmospheric nitrogen
where the latter does not. I t will
grow up to an altitude of 2,100 m,
preferring a well drained soil. I t is
well adapted to sandy soils and can
be planted in and around crop fields.
Propagation Seed should be stored
Dickson Mwahalende with a Tephrosia bush
for 2 months and then planted direct
after soaking in hot water at 45°C.
This treatment should result in 80%
germination after one week. Seed
can be stored without loss of
germination for 2 - 3 years.
Management The plant should be cut back every so often to encourage branching. I t coppices well
and tolerates repeated pruning. I t also tolerates drought, grazing and strong wind. I t recovers well after
burning.
Uses I n Umalila the leaves are used to control maize stalk borer. I t is recommended that 1 kg leaves
are put in 15 litres of water and 25 gm soap is added. Stir and leave the mixture to stand for one day.
The liquid is then strained off and a small amount shaken down the funnel of the maize plant from a
stick or sponge when the plant reaches knee height. The application is repeated twice a week. The
leaves as well as the seeds are effective against aphids and thrips. They can also be used successfully
as a dried powder to control grubs, lice and ticks on cattle and fleas and ticks on dogs. The plant is
sometimes inter-cropped with maize in Southern Tanzania. The plant can also be used as a green
manure, having a high nitrogen content. I t is usually grown in the rain season and ploughed in before
seed set. I t has been used for alley cropping with maize at 90 cm spacing with 2 - 3 seeds per hole. The
plant is allowed to grow until the following planting season when it is cut to ground level. I t may be
grown on contour ridges for soil conservation. Sticks cut from plants can be used for staking beans, for
poles, firewood and making brooms. Tephrosia vogelii is sometimes planted as a hedge. The pulped
leaves are commonly used to poison fish which can then be safely eaten.
Remarks Tephrosine, contained in the leaves, is an effective insecticide and only mildly toxic to
mammals. However browsing animals avoid it. Tephrosine is known to resist attack by termites.
References Watt & Breyer - Brandwijk 1962, Egli & Kalinganire 1988, Beentje 1994, I sangati 2006,
I CRAF 1998, Msanga 1998, Rutunga et al. 1999, Stoll 2000
224
Thunbergia alata
(Acanthaceae)
Common names Nantembe, rusiki (Malila), black-eyed Susan
Description A perennial climbing or trailing plant up to 2 m long. Leaves are opposite and slightly
hairy. The flowers are often numerous, 4 cm in diameter, usually orange but can be white, red or
yellow, having a brown to purple throat. Flowers are produced over a long period. Fruit is round,
woody, and topped with a beak. When ripe it explodes releasing the seeds.
Ecology Present in bush and grassland in East Africa. Often found in partial shade at the forest edge
and in river fringes. I t grows up to an altitude of 2,400 m, particularly in the wetter, higher areas. I t is
sometimes planted as an ornamental.
Propagation Can be grown from seed.
Uses I n Umalila the leaves are pounded
and put in water and drunk to treat a
swollen stomach. The leaves are
reported to be eaten as a vegetable by
some people in Kenya. I t is also reported
to be readily grazed by livestock in
Kenya. I n Tanzania the leaf sap is
dripped
into
the eyes to
treat
inflammation and, together with Hyptis
pectinata, is drunk for piles or early
rectal cancer. I n Malawi a Thunbergia
species is used as a cure for skin disease.
The plant is also used medicinally in
Rwanda, Burundi, Kenya, Uganda and eastern Tanzania.
References Jex-Blake 1957, Wild et al. 1972, Williamson 1975, Burkill 1985, Blundell 1987, Peters et
al. 1992, Neuwinger 2000, Llamas 2003
225
Trichilia emetica
(Meliaceae)
Common names I latushila (Malila), msanguti (Nyakyusa), mkungwina, mtimaji, mtimai (Swahili), Cape
mahogany
Description A small to medium tree up to 20 m tall with hanging foliage. Bark is red brown and
smooth. Leaves are compound with 4 – 5 pairs of alternate leaflets, each 12 – 15 cm long and 5 cm
wide. Leaflets increase in size from the base to the largest terminal leaflet. Flowers are creamy-green
and fragrant. They have 5 thick petals about 2 cm long around a hairy cluster of stamens. Fruit is a
creamy-brown to red round capsule, 1.8 to 2.5 cm across and burst open when mature to reveal black
and red seeds in bright red pulp.
Ecology A widespread and
important tree of high forest
areas. I t prefers a well
drained rich soil and high
water table. Altitude range 0
– 2,100 m. The tree is found
from Senegal to the Red Sea
and
in
the
Arabian
peninsula.
Propagation
Use fresh
seed
which
normally
germinates after 10 – 20
days. Collect seeds when
capsules start to open, dry
in the shade, shake out the
seed when dry and sow
immediately.
Seeds
are
often attacked by a borer
weevil. Seeds that float in
water should be rejected. The tree can also be grown from cuttings. These should be taken from
layered branches or one year old coppice growth. Cuttings are sometimes eaten by termites.
Management Transplant after 6 – 8 months. The tree is fairly fast growing.
Uses The timber is used for firewood, poles and tool handles. Wood is straight grained and easily
planed and, though attacked by borers, is used to produce attractive furniture and shelving. A sweet
milky, edible liquid is obtained from the fruit arils which is used in cooking. The aril must be removed
from the seed, the coat of which is extremely poisonous, and crushed in water. The seeds can also be
skinned and eaten or soaked in water and the contents squeezed out and ground and the liquid
produced is mixed with vegetable leaves. The leaves can be used as fodder. The flowers are reported to
be visited by bees both in Umalila and in South Africa. Oil content of kernel is 55 – 65% . The oil can
also be used as a hair conditioner, to nourish and revitalize skin and as a furniture polish. The bark is
used to treat pneumonia and as an emetic or enema. Oil from the seeds is used for making soap and to
treat cuts and bruises and a decoction of the root is taken for fever and as a purgative. Leaf and fruit
poultices are applied to bruises, cuts and eczema. Pieces of bark or powdered bark are soaked in warm
water and used as an enema or as an emetic for intestinal complaints. A bitter medicinal oil is obtained
by boiling the ground seed in water which is taken for rheumatism. The tree produces good shade and
has a non-aggressive root system.
References Deschodt 1976, Peters et al. 1992, Mbuya et al. 1994, Venter & Venter 1996, Dharani
2002, Ruffo et al. 2002, Lovett et al. 2006
226
Tripsacum andersonii
(Poaceae)
Synonym T.
fasciculatum
Common names I sale
(Malila),
grass
Guatemala
Description A tufted
or spreading perennial
grass,
with
leaves
growing up to 120 cm.
Flower stems are rarely
produced.
Ecology
Origin
probably
Central
America but now grown
in Ghana, I vory Coast,
Kenya, Rwanda and
Madagascar.
Grows
vigorously even at high
altitudes,
in
partial
shade and on a wide
range of soils, as long
as there is sufficient soil
moisture.
Propagation
By
division of the plant or
using the rhizomes. I t is
rather slow to establish.
I t can be planted out
along the contours for
soil conservation and
fodder production.
Management
Leaves
should be cut for fodder
at a height of 10 – 15
cm, when they reach 100 cm, or at 6 week intervals.
Uses The plant has good potential as a stock feed and can be grown to control soil erosion. I t is
possible to harvest up to 195 tons fresh fodder (40 tons dry fodder) per ha in 13 months. Fresh young
leaves may contain up to 9% digestible protein, making it a valuable livestock forage.
Remarks Few farmers grow this grass in Umalila at present but it is useful for erosion control when
planted close together along the contour.
References Bogdan 1977, Chen 1992
227
Tristemma mauritianum
(Melastomataceae)
Synonym T. virusanum , T. incompletum
Common names I salakwale
Description An erect herb or shrub up to 2 m high, usually short lived with thick square stems and
covered with bristles. Leaves are borne on stalks 1 – 4 cm long, and are opposite, oval and up to 12 cm
long with 5 – 7 conspicuous parallel veins. Flowers are pale-pink mauve in terminal heads. Fruits
contain soft, white sections which are sweet.
Ecology Usually found in marshy places, but occasionally among rocks. Found from Senegal to Uganda
and from Sudan south to Angola. This plant was growing on rocky soil at the forest edge near Yalenga.
Uses Ripe fruits are eaten by children in Pemba. Fruits and young shoots are also eaten in Uganda. The
plant has a number of medicinal uses. Bees are reported to visit the flowers in Umalila.
References Burkill 1997, Katende et al. 1999, Neuwinger 2000, Konda et al. 2006
228
Triticum aestivum
(Poaceae)
Synonym T. vulgare
Common names I hiya (Malila), ngano (Swahili),
bread wheat.
Description An annual cereal crop. Depending on
the variety, it grows from 0.9 to 1.5 m high. Most
varieties grown in Umalila are awned. Spring
bread wheat is the most important variety
produced. There is a local brown flour variety and
a new white variety called Uyahudi, which is
quicker maturing than the others.
Ecology Most wheat is produced at altitudes over
1,500 m in tropical Africa and is therefore
concentrated in Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania.
Wheat is grown between altitudes of 1,200 and
2,600 m in Tanzania. Dry conditions can cause
stress whereas excessive rain can result in
diseased plants. Wheat requires a fertile, well
drained soil. Though the plant is fairly drought
resistant it requires adequate moisture, especially
when it begins to tiller. Drought during flowering
results in narrow, misshapen grains.
Propagation Wheat is usually planted from
February to March towards the end of the rain
season, so that weeds can be dug in prior to
planting. Seed rates of 90 kg/ ha are normal for
broadcast wheat. A fine seedbed is needed. Use improved, disease resistant seed wherever possible.
Management Weed control is important. The most important diseases and pests are:- Yellow or stripe
rust, particularly at
altitudes over 2,400
m. Use a resistant
variety
though
resistance breakdown
is fairly rapid. Septaria
leaf blotch is also a
problem. Nematodes,
aphids and Quelea
birds can also be
serious pests. The
crop matures after
approximately
four
and a half months in
Tanzania.
Uses Wheat is used
locally
for
making
bread, chapatis and
scones. Approximately
82,000 tonnes per
Nemedia Josefu threshing wheat near Yalenga
annum are produced
in Tanzania from 60,000 ha. The straw is used for thatching.
Remarks Wheat is a labour intensive crop in Umalila where plants are grown in small fields, often
under 1 ha, and on steep sloping ground. A disease resulting in shrivelled grain has recently appeared.
References Gunn 1953, Acland 1971, Raemaekers 2001, Belay 2006
229
Triumfetta annua
(Tiliaceae)
Common names I zumba (Malila), mulenda (Swahili), burweed
Description Erect annual or short lived perennial up to 1 m tall. Leaves alternate, 3 – 9.5 cm long and
2 – 6 cm wide, sometimes almost rounded, with a pointed tip. The leaf margin is lightly toothed.
Flowers are small, yellow, and produced in the leaf axils. Fruit is round, 10 mm, and has many hooked
bristles.
Ecology The plant occurs from Nigeria to Ethiopia and into South Africa. I t is widespread at medium
altitudes up to 2,150 m and in shady places and is also a common weed of cultivation. I n Umalila it is
sometimes cultivated in home gardens.
Propagation Planted from seed or
cuttings. Cuttings should be 15 – 20
cm long and be taken from the top of
the stems. These should be planted in
the shade at a spacing of 10 – 15 cm.
Uses New shoots are produced as
soon as the rain starts and these are
harvested throughout the rain season.
The leaves are edible and contain
4.2% protein. They are occasionally
cooked with potashes to soften them.
References Wild et al. 1972, Goode
1974, Williamson 1975, Malaisse 1997,
Schippers 2002, Schippers 2004
230
Triumfetta rhomboidea
(Tiliaceae)
Common names I mbunya (Malila), burweed
Description An erect, hairy, woody plant up to 1 m high. Stems are grooved along their length. Leaves
are simple, alternate and lobed. The red/ yellow flowers are in small crowded clusters. Fruits have
hooked prickles 1 mm long.
Triumfetta rhomboidea growing beside the road near I lembo
Ecology Commonly occurs along paths and roadsides in upland forests, dry country and grassland;
altitude range up to 2,280 m. Often a weed of cultivation and recorded throughout tropical and
southern Africa.
Uses Bees were seen on this plant collecting both
pollen and nectar. I n Zimbabwe the leaves are eaten
as a relish. The roots are also eaten after being
crushed and cooked. Stem fibres are occasionally used
for making string in Malawi and have potential as a
substitute for jute. The leaves are crushed with water
and used to treat burns. The roots are used to treat
toothache and for circumcision wounds in East Africa.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Wild et al
1972, Williamson 1975, Kokwaro 1976, Tredgold
1986, Blundell 1987, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Neuwinger
2000, Kihwele et al. 2001
231
Turraea floribunda
(Meliaceae)
Synonym T. kaessneri
Common names I lyilu (Malila), mlangilangi-mwitu, mtamagoa (Swahili), wild honeysuckle tree.
Description A shrub or tree, sometimes a creeper, up to 10 m tall. Leaves are 9 - 20 cm long and 4 10 cm wide, elliptic with a wedge shaped base, densely hairy when young and also on the veins of older
leaves. Flowers white. Fruit about 2 cm in diameter.
Ecology I n Umalila single trees are preserved in or around
home compounds. Locally common in low-lying evergreen
rainforest in Malawi. Present in moist forest in Kenya.
Propagation Turraea robusta is sown from seed without
pretreatment. The flesh surrounding the seed must be
removed before sowing.
Uses I n Umalila the bitter leaves are pounded and put in
water which is drunk to relieve coughing. The bark is used
as an emetic, and the root and bark as a purgative in
Tanzania and Malawi. These are boiled and the decoction
is drunk twice a day. Large doses are poisonous. The plant
is used as an emetic, and to treat rheumatism, dropsy and
heart disease by the Zulu people in South Africa. The
leaves are not eaten by insects. The wood is pale white
and moderately hard. I t is used for making domestic utensils and implements, firewood and charcoal.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Williamson 1975, Kokwaro 1976, Beentje 1994, Msanga
1998, van Wyk & Gericke 2000, Neuwinger 2000, Lovett et al. 2006
232
Vernonia adoensis
(Asteraceae)
Synonym V. shirensis
Common names I pasapasa
Description
An
erect
woody herb or shrub 0.3 – 3
m high, which branches
from near the base. Leaves
are
greyish
on
the
undersides and the plant
has a large root. The dense
flower heads are mauve to
pale-pink.
Ecology
Grows in open
woodland
and
wooded
grassland at medium to high
altitudes. Often found near
streams.
Present
from
Nigeria to Ethiopia and
south to D.R. Congo and
Zimbabwe.
Uses
Bees were seen
collecting nectar from this
plant in July. Vernonia
species are known to be
important sources of nectar
and pollen. I n Malawi pollen
was often found in honey
samples. I n Tanzania a root
infusion is taken for stomach
pains
and
to
treat
Vernonia adoensis flowering near Mt. Mbogo
tuberculosis and the fresh
roots are sliced and cooked
with milk and flour to treat gonorrhea. I n Nigeria the roots and pounded leaves are boiled in water and
the liquid drunk to relieve indigestion. I n Kenya the Maasai crush the leaves in cold water and apply to
cattle sores caused by ticks.
Remarks There are about 25 species of Vernonia in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania.
References Morton 1964, Wild et al. 1972, Williamson 1975, Cribb & Leedal 1982, Crane et al. 1984,
Burkill 1985, Persano Oddo et al. 1988, FZ 1992, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, Burrows &
Willis 2005
233
Vernonia myriantha
(Asteraceae)
Common names I poroto
Description A shrub 3 - 4 m tall, but may
reach 6 m, with stout stems. Flowers are
borne in large, loose heads of pale mauve,
white or pink flowers and are up to 60 cm
across.
Ecology Found in open areas of moist and
dry mountain forests. I t may form thickets
and is a colonizer of disturbed land and
abandoned cultivation. I t grows between
1,600 and 2,400 m in Tanzania and is a
good indicator of soil fertility.
Left : Vernonia myriantha growing at the
forest edge in Umalila
Propagation Can be grown from cuttings
or seed. The seed remains viable for up to
a year.
Management A fast growing shrub which coppices well
and can be planted along contour ridges and grass
strips.
Uses An important bee forage and sometimes used as a
hedge plant in Umalila. The plant is cut for mulching and
green manure. Stems can be used for firewood. The
leaves are used to wrap foods. They do not dry out and break up easily.
References Beentje 1994, Mbuya et al. 1994
234
Zea mays
(Poaceae)
Common
names
Amangagu
(Malila),
mahindi (Swahili), maize
Description A stout annual reaching 4 m
with a root system of adventitious roots
growing from the lower nodes.
Ecology Grown in a wide range of conditions
though it is essentially a crop of warm regions
with adequate moisture. However the crop
yields well at 2,000 m in Umalila. Grows best
on well drained, well aerated, deep, fertile
loam soils.
Propagation Seed is normally planted in
August or September, before the rains. I t is
spaced at 75 – 90 between rows and 25 – 50
cm between plants. 3 seeds are sown per
hole. Beans are often inter-planted. Runner
beans are also inter-planted and use the
maize stems for support (see page 174).
Left : Mama Mlaga shelling maize
Management
Weed
control
is
very
important. Stalk or stem borers are a major
pest in Umalila. They can be controlled by
tobacco, or Tephrosia vogelii leaf solution
which is poured down the centre funnel into
the plant (see pages 224). The powdered
Maerua
decumbens
and
roots
of
Neorautanenia mitis may also be used.
However care should be taken when using the latter (see pages 144 & 155). Cut worms, cob borer and
bollworm may also be troublesome.
Uses Maize is the staple food in Umalila, used for
making ugali and uji while the immature cobs are
roasted. White maize, compared with yellow maize, has
a harder grain and produces a more palatable food. I n
Umalila the crop is often planted on the same land year
after year. I t is estimated that 2.6 million tonnes are
produced from 1.6 million ha each year in Tanzania and
that average yield in Africa is only 1.25 t/ ha. Potentially
maize can yield over 6 t/ ha. Bees frequently collect
pollen from the male flowers during the rains and
sometimes honeydew from the leaves. The latter may be
gathered in sufficient quantities to give a honey flow.
Right : Maize provides with bees with large quantities of
pollen, vital for rearing brood.
References Purseglove 1972, Howes 1979, Crane et al.
1984, Villières 1987, Stoll 2000, Badu-Apraku &
Fakorede 2006
235
Bee Forage Chart
Southern Tanzania
Scientific name
Malila
Acacia mearnsii
Agarista salicifolia
Albizia gummifera
Albizia schimperiana
Amphicarpa africana
Argemone mexicana
Bersama abyssinica
Bidens magnifolia
Bidens pilosa
Bidens pinnatipartita
Bidens schimperi
Bidens steppia
Bothriocline longipes
Brassica carinata
Brassica oleracea
Bridelia micrantha
Brillantaisia kirungae
Brugmansia suaveolens
Buddleja salviifolia
Caesalpina decapetala
Callistemon viminalis
Cassia floribunda
Caylusea abyssinica
Chassalia discolor
Chrysophyllum gorungosanum
Cissampelos pariera
Clausena anisata
Cleome gynandra
Clerodendrum johnstonii
Crassocephalum vitellinum
Crotalaria cleomifolia
Crotalaria natalitia
Crotalaria subcapitata
Cucurbita ficifolia
Cucurbita maxima
Cussonia spicata
Cyathula uncinulata
Dalbergia lactea
Desmodium intortum
Desmodium repandum
Diospyros whyteana
Dissotis melleri
Dodonaea angustifolia
Dombeya burgessiae
Dombeya rotundifolia
Dombeya torrida
Dovyalis abyssinica
Dracaena steudneri
Duhaldea stuhlmannii
Ehretia cymosa
Ekbergia capensis
Emilia sp.
Naluyami
Izenya
(Mkenge)
Intanga
Izanji
Months when bees collect pollen and nectar
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Iswago
Indelengu
Masikari
Intengu
Lizumba
Mputira
Insongole
Igagara
Ilepu
Iliyisia
Inswina
Intwiti
Inyangwa
"Bottle brush"
Inuha
Ukwipa
Intwati ya misengo
Ipalanyiji
Lusisia
Isyenje
Umuzima
Nanjoha
Inzumba
Isekeseke
Ithumba
R
R
F
R
F
NP N
NP
R NPNNP F
NP
N
R R NPNNP
F * F
NP F
F
R
* *
N N F
R R F
*
F
F
F
F
F
NP
F
F
F
N
N
N
F
F
F
R
F
F
F
F
F
N
*
F
F
*
Dabwidi
Ipwiza
Ipombo
Imbunya
Ishuwa
Izanzi
Asampya
Ifita
Izolakwale
Inzigula
Inkunya
Itanji
Ikunya
Isogwa
Iteti
Isasami
Itundumusi
Ihoho
Enzumba
F
F
F
F
F
*
*
F
F
N
F
N
F
N
F
R R
NP NP
NP R
F
*
F
F
F
R
F R
R
NP
R
F
Ensete ventricosum
Eriobotrya japonica
Erythrina abyssinica
Eucalyptus sp.
Euphorbia nyikae
Faurea saligna
Flacourtia indica
Fuchsia magellanica
Galinieria saxifraga
Galinsoga parviflora
Garcinia kingaensis
Geniosporum rotundifolium
Gnidia glauca
Gnidia involucrata
Gouania longispicata
Grevillea robusta
Guizotia scabra
Gynura scandens
Hagenia abyssinica
Halleria lucida
Haumanniastrum villosum
Helianthus annuus
Helichrysum foetidum
Heteromorpha arborescens
Hibiscus diversifolius
Hibiscus ludwigi
Hypericum quartinianum
Hypericum revolutum
Hypoestes triflora
Iboza riparia
Ilex mitis
Impatiens gomphophylla
Ipomoea cairica
Ipomoea involucrata
Ipomoea tricolor
Ipomoea wightii
Isoglossa eliasbandae
Jasminum abyssinicum
Jasminum goetzeanum
Justicia diclipteroides
Keetia gueinzii
Knipofia princeae
Kotschya recurvifolia
Landolphia buchananii
Lantana viburnoides
Leonotis ocymifolia
Leonitis sp.
Maesa lanceolata
Maytenus undata
Mikaniopsis tanganyikensis
Musa sp.
Myrianthus holstii
Myrica humilis
Neoboutonia macrocalyx
Neoratanenia mitis
Nicandra physaloides
Igawo
Insongwa
Iseve
Amalo+B85ngoti
Ilangali
Ivunda vunda
Isugwa
N
F
*
*
F
R
N
F
R
F
N
Iliepwa
Ikuvengwa
Penausiku
Ishumwa
Suwaji
Suwaji
Lihambako
R
F F
R
*
Inswina ilinsi
Ivuguvugu
Isangati
Imbogwa
(Kiazi pori)
Isindu
Lusisia
Lusisia
Inswina ipete
Isanzo
Impyuyu
Inswina
Nyongampembe
Isusumba
Intenga
Ilonji
Isawi
Ifipa
Ifipa
Inkuti
Izorote
Izeru
Indoki
R
Iswizya
Isiwiziwe
Ipapama
Ihole
Ifoti
R
R
R
R
R
F
R
Inzumba
Iwozya
Iliogoti
Inuha
Amabangayeye
Inzumba
Ilelengu
Iwawa
Iwawa
Tandankwari
R
F
R
N
F
R
F
F
F F
F
F
F
*
N
F
F
F
N
F
F
F
R
F
R
F
F
R
F
NP
NP
F
F
F
F
N
F
N
*
F
F
NP
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
N
F
F
N
F
*
R
N
R
R
N
F
F
F
F
*
R
NP
R R R F
F
R
R
R
N
N
R
R
R
F
F F
F
Nicotiana tabacum
Nuxia congesta
Ocimum gratissimum
Ocimum lamiifolium
Olinia rochetiana
Oreosyce africana
Parinari curatellifolia
Passiflora edulis
Pavetta spp.
Pavonia urens
Peddiea polyantha
Persea americana
Phaseolus coccineus
Phaseolus vulgaris
Phytolacca dodecandra
Pittosporum viridiflorum
Plectranthus defoliatus
Plectranthus masukensis
Plumbago zeylanica
Polygala virgata
Polyscias fulva
Protea gaguedi
Prunus persica
Psychotria mahonii
Pteleopsis myrtifolia
Pycnostachys orthodonta
Pycnostachys ruandensis
Ranunculus multifidus
Rauvolfia caffra
Rhus natalensis
Rhus pyroides var. pyroides
Ricinus communis
Rubia cordifolia
Rubus spp.
Saba comorensis
Salvia coccinea
Salvia leucantha
Scadoxus puniceus
Schefflera volkensii
Senecio deltoides
Shirakiopsis elliptica
Solanecio mannii
Sparrmannia ricinocarpa
Spermacoce dibrachiata
Syzygium cordatum
Tecomaria capensis subsp. nyassae
Trichilia emetica
Triumfetta rhomboidea
Vernonia adoensis
Vernonia calvoana
Vernonia myriantha
Zea mays
Intumba
Imbaza
Isongwa
Isawi
Iwobe
Inyuli
Iyula, Iwula
Ipokhola
Izenya zenya
Iwawa
Gamboruguga
Itakapera
Tandawala
Imbonzo
Ibozya
Iliova
Ivuguvugu
Ikwitwa
Naluhalo
Baziwanga
Impembati
Insega
Mafulisi
Kirausiku
Infita
N
F
F
NP
N
F
F
F
NP
N
N
N
F
F
F
F
F
N
F
F
F
R
R
F
F
R
R
R R
R
F
R
R
F
F
R
F
Isale
Izumba
Isiongoti
Isanyandwa
Ishesheru
Imbono
Ibambula
Itonongwa
Ilonji
Ifipa
F
NP
R
R
F
N
F
F
NPNNP NP
F
NP F
N N
Itindi
Imogoro
Umuwula
Igambo
Intwiti
Insabi
Ikuwe
Ifwomi
Intwati
Ilatushila
Imbunya
Ipasapasa
Ipekeso
Iporoto
Amangagu
N
P
R
F
R
F
P
P
N
F
R
R
P
P
F
F
*
F
N
N
R
R R *
R
R R
R
F
NP R
F
Unidentified plants
Ifita
Peremesi
N
R
R
Plants giving objectionable or poisonous honey
Agave sisalana
Euphorbia nyikae
Lobelia gibberoa
Ikatani
Ilangali
Iwoti, piriti
Notes
* = Bees seen visiting
F = Seen in flower
N = Bees seen collecting nectar
P = Bees seen collecting pollen
R = Reported locally as a bee forage plant
Bracketed names - Swahili
F
*
F
N
F
Glossary
Aflatoxin
Anthelmintic
Anti-carcinogenic
Aqueous extract
Astringent
Asymmetrical
Awn
Axil
Bee forage
Blind plant
Bole
Bolting
Bracts
Brood
Bulbil
Poisonous chemical produced by a mould on various foods.
A remedy for expelling intestinal worms.
A substance which acts against cancer forming cells.
Liquid obtained from soaking plants or the leaves in water.
Causing contraction of the soft tissues.
I rregular in shape.
Long spine or bristle arising from the end of a seed of wheat or barley.
Junction of leaf stalk and stem or branch.
Plant visited by bees for nectar or pollen.
A plant which has no growth point.
Swollen stem of a tree.
A plant producing flowers often when under stress.
A leaf-like organ usually with a flower growing from its base.
Eggs and larvae of bees present in brood comb.
A bulb-like organ formed on the leaves or flower stalk which can grow to
form a new plant.
Calyx
The outer, normally green, case composed of sepals surrounding the flower.
Capsule
Outer shell or case surrounding seeds of the fruit.
Cardio-vascular properties Substances that reduce high blood pressure or the likelihood of strokes.
Chip budding
A slice of stem, with bud, from the improved variety is inserted to replace a
bud on the stem of the rootstock.
Chit
Small tubers (usually potatoes) are placed in a light but not sunny position to
encourage the growth of green shoots so that, when planted out, they will
commence growing immediately.
Cholesterol
The most common fat like substance in the human body. High levels can
cause heart problems.
Cleft graft
A twig from an improved variety is sharpened and inserted into a slit in the
top of the main stem of the rootstock, after the latter has been cut back.
Clone
Plants reproduced vegetatively from the same plant.
Cloves
Small bulblets which together make up one large bulb, as for garlic.
Comb
Cells in which young bees are raised. Comb is also used to store honey and
pollen. See photo on page 11.
Coppice
Sprouts arising from a tree stump after being cut down.
Corm
A bulb-like underground swollen stem.
Corolla
The flower petals, especially when these are joined together.
Counter irritant
Something which causes irritation in one part of the body to relieve pain
elsewhere.
Deciduous
A tree that sheds its leaves annually.
Decoction
Extraction of essence by boiling liquid to a concentrate.
Disc floret
Florets, which are often tubular, formed near the centre of the flower head.
Dormancy
Period when plants do not grow.
Dry matter
Percentage content of plant without moisture.
Dyspepsia
I ndigestion
Earthing up
Earth is drawn up into ridges over the sprouting shoots of potatoes to allow
for tuber development and to prevent greening of the tubers.
Elephantiasis
Swelling of the legs, arms or genitals caused by long thread like worms.
Emetic
A substance that makes people vomit. Used when poison has been
swallowed.
Enema
A substance, usually in water, inserted into the anus to cause bowel
movement.
Epiphyte
A plant which attaches itself to another, often to reach the light, but which
does not feed on or harm the host.
Expectorant
A substance that helps a person cough up mucous.
Extra floral nectary
Nectary on the leaf or leaf stalk.
Fix nitrogen
Certain leguminous plants (e.g. Tephrosia vogelii) have a symbiotic
relationship with rhizobia bacteria in their roots which are able to extract
nitrogen from the air and make it available to the plant.
Furuncle
A painful area of the skin containing pus.
Goitre
Swelling on the front of the neck caused by lack of iodine in the food.
Gonorrhoea
A sexually transmitted disease.
Greening
Tubers become green on exposure to light. Eating these can be dangerous
because of the Solanin present.
240
ha
Hallucinogen
Harden off
Hardy
Heel
Honey flow
Humus
Hypertension
I nsecticide
Latex
Lenticels
Lopping
Mange
Methionine
Nectary
Nematacide
Nematodes
Nodes
Organic matter
Ovate
Palmate
Perennial
Petiole
pH
Pinnae
Pollard
Poultice
Purgative
Raceme
Ray floret
Rectal prolapse
Rhizome
Riverine
Rootstock
Rosette
Scion
Seed potatoes
Seed viability
Semi-ripe cutting
Sepals
Shield budding
Side graft
Side-whip grafts
Split
Stall feeding
Succulent
Sucker
Systemic insecticide
Abbreviation for hectare.
A substance causing illusions.
Gradually reduce artificial conditions to adapt a plant to field conditions.
Able to withstand a variety of weather conditions e.g. drought or cold.
The base of a cutting is separated from the main stem by being torn off
together with the axillary bud.
Season when bees produce large quantities of honey.
Decomposed vegetable matter in the soil.
High blood pressure.
Substance used to control insects.
Milky, sticky fluid produced when some plants are cut or damaged.
Breathing pores on the bark.
Removing branches from the top of a tree.
A skin disease of animals.
An amino acid lacking in the diet of people whose main diet is cassava or
plantain.
Organ, usually inside the flower supplying nectar to insects.
Substance used to control nematodes.
Also known as eelworms. Tiny worms that invade the plant roots causing a
loss of vigour and often producing swellings in the roots.
A joint on a stem or branch.
Material derived from plants e.g. compost, mulch.
Egg shaped in outline.
Shaped like the fingers of a hand.
A plant that lives for more than two years.
Leaf stalk
A measure of the acidity or alkalinity of the soil.
The individual leaves growing on each side of a stem. They may themselves
be compound with a central stalk and leaflets on either side.
The tree is cut at about 2 – 3 m height and sprouts to form a mass of foliage
which can then be cut for livestock fodder etc.
Heated material applied to the skin to relieve infected swelling.
(Laxative) Stimulates the bowel evacuation.
An unbranched stem bearing flowers on short stalks. The flowers commence
opening from the base.
Florets, which are often strap-like, on the margin of the flower head.
The bowel bulges out of the anus.
A thickened stem, which may branch, and grow on or just below the surface
of the soil. Roots go down into the soil while stems and leaves sprout
upwards from it.
Beside flowing water.
A plant grown to produce the root system of a grafted plant.
A dense round cluster of leaves of equal shape.
A shoot or bud cut from an improved plant variety to be grafted onto
another.
Potatoes between 3 and 6 cm in diameter used for planting.
The length of time seed retains the capacity to germinate.
Cuttings taken from young branches which are no longer soft and do not wilt
so easily.
Bracts which open to reveal the flower petals and which may remain below
the flower.
(also called T budding). A T is cut in the stem of the rootstock and an oval
piece of bark with a bud from an improved variety is inserted and bound in
with a strip of plastic.
Similar to cleft grafting but the notch is made on the side of the stem rather
on the top.
A shoot from the scion is cut diagonally across and a similar cut is made on
the top of the rootstock and the two surfaces bound together.
An individual plant divided from a clump of plants.
Feeding cut fodder to enclosed livestock.
Thickened, fleshy (used when describing leaves).
A shoot arising from the root or from below the ground.
A pesticide or insecticide, sprayed on the plant or soil, which is taken up
and circulated throughout the plant.
241
T budding
Tendril
Tiller
Trifoliate
Tubercules
Vegetative propagation
Vertical interval
Viable
Woodlots
See Shield budding.
A thin thread-like projection used by the plant to climb or attach itself to a
support.
A shoot arising from the axil of a lower leaf usually of a member of the grass
family e.g. wheat. Generally the greater the tillering the better the yield.
Composed of three leaflets.
Small rounded swelling on a plant.
I ncreasing the number of plants by taking cuttings or layers instead of seed.
The vertical distance between contour lines or strips.
Used to describe the length of time seed can be kept and still be planted.
Small areas of trees planted mainly for firewood.
242
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249
I ndex of general and beekeeping photos
Harvesting honey at Yalenga in October
Finger millet growing near I lembo in April
Elia Mwampamba with a traditional hive
Tanzania top bar hive
Umalila is intensively farmed
The value of indigenous forest
Beehive in a Polyscias fulva tree
Beehive in a tree above the home compound
A bamboo ladder for inspecting the hive and harvesting honey
A smoker made from bamboo stems and wild banana leaves
Protective clothing for inspecting a hive or harvesting honey
I nside a top bar hive
Water is important for bees
Costa Mwamahonje with a consignment of Umalila honey
Carrying firewood home
Pounding wheat
Bamboo used for roofing a house
Preparing land for planting maize
Bamboo poles used to channel water
Near Shilanga in the rain season
Beekeepers near I lomba
Carrying Cyperus rushes for making mats
Dickson Mwahalende with young Hagenia abyssinica seedlings
Soil erosion is a serious problem
Yalenga village from I saho forest
Khatanta forest near Maendeleo village
Clay jar for water storage
Children carting unburnt bricks in I lembo
Pitsawing timber near Maendeleo
Honey labels for Umalila honey
Collecting leaves of Cleome gynandra in a garden at I lembo
Grain stores at I zumbwe
Nyasalandi Nayomo climbing to inspect one of his hives
A favourite heifer
Brassica oleracea in a plot of Solanum umalilaense
Lantana camara growing as a hedge
Older people often have considerable knowledge of plant uses
Making an axe shaft
Lighting a bee smoker at Yalenga
Hills near I tebera
Nkwakwa Kailoni, a traditional healer near I lembo
Sorghum growing near Yalenga
A house in Maendeleo village
A beehive damaged by a genet
Aswile Mbagarara preparing a smoker
250
Front cover
4
6
6
7
7
8
9
9
10
10
11
12
12
13
23
35
37
42
45
48
71
75
84
88
102
114
116
122
125
130
131
132
133
136
140
147
153
169
172
192
201
223
223
Back cover
I ndex of common names
Abyssinian mustard
African buttercup
African mangosteen
African mint
African nightshade
African sandalwood
African spinach
Albino berry
Amaranth
Apple of Peru
Avocado
Balsam tree
Bamboo
Banana
Bulb onion
Bear’s breeches
Beechwood
Blackberry
Black-eyed Susan
Black jack
Black nightshade
Black wattle
Bladder nut
Bottle brush
Bramble
Brittlewood
Burweed
Butterfly bush
Cabbage tree
Canna lily
Cape ash
Cape gooseberry
Cape holly
Cape mahogany
Cardinal flower
Carrot tree
Castor oil
Cat's whiskers
Ceylon spinach
Chayote
Cheesewood
Cherimoya
Cherimoyer
Climbing canthium
Curry bush
Cypress
Dock
Dog plum
Dragon tree
East African sandalwood
East I ndian basil
Elephant grass
Ethiopian kale
Ethiopian mustard
False banana
Fever plant
Fire-thorned rhus
Fig leaf gourd
Finger millet
Fish poison bean
French bean
39
193
103
114
211
163
22
25
22
156
12, 173
106
9, 10, 28
12, 150
20
14
96
199
225
34
211
13
76
48
199
158
230, 231
45
70
50
86
177
124
226
142
216
197
59
29
206
182
24
24
135
121
5, 7, 69
200
86
83
163
159
170
39
39
89
159
196
67
4, 59, 87
224
175
Fuchsia
Gallant soldier
Garlic
Giant leaved fig
Giant St. John’s wort
Giant yellow mulberry
Ginger bush
Governor’s plum
Granadilla
Green leaf desmodium
Grevillea
Guatemala grass
I ndian madder
I ndian plum
I ndian spinach
Kale
Khaki weed
Kew weed
Koko tree
Kooboo berry
Kuru vine
Large psychotria
Leaf cabbage
Livingstone potato
Long podded Albizia
Loquat
Lucky bean tree
Madagascar plum
Mahogany
Maize
Malabar gourd
Mauritius thorn
Mexican bush sage
Mexican marigold
Mexican poppy
Mexican weeping pine
Mobola plum
Moonflower
Morning glory
Mountain pawpaw
Mulberry
Multiflora bean
Mysore thorn
Napier grass
Neem
Northern forest Garcinia
Onion
Orange-eye
Oyster nut
Parsley tree
Parsnip tree
Passion fruit
Patula pine
Pea
Peach
Peanut cassia
Peruvian cherry
Pine
Popcorn senna
Pop-gun tree
Prickly poppy
Pride of Manicaland
251
100
102
21
97
121
151
123
99
165
74
109
133, 227
198
99
22
40
219
102
146
153
74
190
40
183
19
92
93
99
91
12, 235
67
47
202
219
26
179
164
44
129
51
149
174
47
170
27
103
20
45
221
117
117
165
179
181
12, 189
208
177
179
208
216
26
186
Pumpkin
Pyrethrum
Quinine tree
Railway creeper
Rattlepod
Red beech
Red hot poker
Red hot poker tree
Red paintbrush
Royal paintbrush
Runner bean
Sagewood
Saligna gum
Sand olive
Scarlet runner bean
Scrambled eggs
Shallot
Shock-headed Peter
Silk oak
Silver oak
Sisal
Smooth fruited Clutia
Snap bean
Sorrel
Spider plant
Straw flower
Sugar bush
Sugar cane
Summer lilac
Sunflower
Sweet potato
Sydney blue gum
Taro
Tea bush
Tobacco
Tomatillo
Tree basil
Tree tomato
Umbrella tree
Vegetable pear
Vine spinach
Water-berry
Water boom
Weeping bottlebrush
Wheat
White angel's trumpet
Wild calabash
Wild elder
Wild honeysuckle tree
Wild pear
Wild potato
Winged bersama
Winter squash
Zanzibar oil vine
68
54
194
127
66
96
136
93
204
204
174
46
94
78
174
183
20
58
109
93
12, 17
61
125
200
59
116
188
201
45
12, 115
126
94
63
159
157
72
159
72
70
206
29
218
218
48
229
44
138
158
232
80
183
32
68
164
252
I ndex of Malila names
Amabangayeye
Amangagu
Amanzila
Amasimbi
Amaua
Asampya
Baziwanga
Bumburankwale
Dabwidi
Esebe
Enzumba
Gamboruguga
I bambula
I bozya
I dudwi
I fipa
I fita
I foti
I fuate
I fwomi
I gagara
I gawo
I gambo
I hahatu
I hale
I hiya
I hoho
I hole
I hula
I kapunika
I katani
I katawila
I kunya
I kuvengwa
I kusa
I kuwi
I kwitwa
I langali
I lansi
I latushila
I lelengu
I lepo
I liogoti
I liova
I liungu
I lomba
I longoti
I lonji
I lyilu
I lysia
I mbatata
I mbaza
I mbogwa
I mbono
I mbonzo
I mbunya
I menyi
I mogoro
I mpembati
I mpyuyu
I ndelengu
I ndoki
I ndola
I ndolo
I nfita
I ngaya
I ngururusi
I ngwayuzi
I nkunya
I nkuti
I nono
I nsabi
I nsambwa
I nsega
I nsongole
I nsongwa
I nsungwe
I nswina
I nswina ilinsi
I nswina ipete
I ntafwanya
I ntanga
I ntenga
I ntengu
I ntumba
I ntwati
I ntwati ya misango
I ntwitwi
I nuha
I nuka
I numbu
I nyangwa
I nyole
I nyule
I nzembwa
I nzigula
I nzonya
I nzumba
I nzungu
I owa
I palanyiji
I pana
I papama
I pasapasa
I patatiho
I pekeso
I pokhola
I pombo
I poroto
I pwiza
I rangari
I salakwale
I sale
I sangati
I sanyantwa
I sanzo
I sasami
I sawi
I seve
I sekeseke
I shesheru
I shiomwe
I shiriri
I shirungu
115
235
71
63
54
75
186
77
67
93
88
169
198
178
142
12, 141, 202
76
156
156
12, 218
12, 39
10, 89
209
14
91
229
86
155
164
34
17
206
81
102
84
58
184
8, 95
28
226
117
40
8, 12, 112
182
68
171
94
139
232
41
126
158
125
197
175
34, 71, 231
206
12, 205
8, 12, 187
132
33
150
253
97
97
191
50
172
214
79
145
24
214
153
188
38
92
211
133
122
45, 130
212
19
4, 12, 137
34
157
220
53
12, 45, 210
114, 208, 219
114
183
47
148
162
22
12, 78
14
64, 110, 116
177
201
55
72
154
233
25
9
165
70
234
68
95
228
170, 192, 227
12, 134
195
131
84
140
12, 93
65
195, 196
159
71
105
I shitundu
I shitunguru
I shumwa
I shuwa
I sindu
I siongoti
I siwiziwe
I sogwa
I songwa
I sugwa
I susumba
I suwaji
I swago
I swizya
I syababa
I syamo
I syenje
I takapera
I tandu
I tanji
I teti
I thumba
I tindi
I tobero
I tonongwa
I tundumusi
I tungururu
I twiza
I vata
I vuguvugu
I vum
I vumbu
I wawa
I weya
I wobe
I woti
I wovi
I wozya
I wula
I yula
I zanji
I zenya
I zenya zenya
I zeru
I zolokwale
I zorote
I zumba
Kakato
Kawiru
Kirausiku
Kowenga
Lihambako
Lizumba
Lusisia
Mafulisi
Mafundo
Masikari
Mpukuso
Mputira
Mpwagili
Mtonongwa
Mulembo
Naluyami
Namjok
Nangawo
Nanjoha
Nantembe
Ngondora
Nyongampembe
Nzumbankwale
Penausiku
Piriti
Popoti ndongo
Rusiki
Shigogo
Suwaji
Tandankwari
Tandawala
Ukwipa
Ulimbo
Umupapa
Umuwula
Umuzimu
Utupa
Uwutupwa
Uwulezi
Vunda vunda
28
20
104
73
128
194
152
82
132
86
136
106
32
151
181
200
57
173
221
12, 80
12, 83
66
204
153
199
85
138
151
134
123, 184
98
183
118, 119, 168
163
161
142
132
30, 111
164
164
23, 74
16
167
147
77
146
193, 230
31
67
190
193
108
35
56, 129
189
180
34
103
12, 36
146
199
73
13
254
49
15
60
225
199
135, 216
77
103
142
143
225
203
107
120
174
52
176
180
207
12, 59
144, 224
84
87
96
I ndex of Sw ahili names
Alizeti
Figile
Kahawa mwitu
Kibazi
Kiazi cha kizungu
Kifundo
Kitungu
Kitungu sumu
Magimbi
Mahindi
Marejea
Matope tope
Mbege
Mboga ya kimasaai
Mboga ya mboga
Mbono
Mbula
Mbungo
Mbura
Mchicha
Mforsadi
Mfurusadi
Mgagani
Mgogwe
Mharagwe
Mkaa pwani
Mkambo kambo
Mkarati
Mkaratusi
Mkenge
Mkilifi
Mkonge
Mkono chuma
Mkufi
Mkumba
Mkungwina
Mkweme
Mlagalaga
Mlama mwitu
Mlangilangi mwitu
Mnavu
Mnukia muuma
Mpapai
Mpekesho
Mrumba pori
Msambarau
Msindano
Mtamagoa
Mtango
Mtarakwa
Mtimai
Mtimaji
Mtimbao
Mtomoko
Mtulenya
Mtupa
Mturunga
Mtutu
Mukarikari
Mulenda
Muwa
Muwati
Mwamba ngoma
Mwangani
Mwarubaini
Mwembe mwitu
Mwimbi
Myunguvu
Nderema
Ngano
Njegere
Sukuma wiki
Tumbako
Ukakaka
Ulezi
Viazi maji
115
39
62
224
212
198
20
21
63
235
66
24
87
67
67
197
164
139
164
22
149
149
59
72
175
78
69
41
94
18
27
17
195, 196
194
195
226
221
56
196
232
211
148
51
103
98
218
179
232
68
69
226
226
94
24
112
224
112
41
91
230
201
13
255
93
59
27
194
87
16
29
229
181
40
157
198
87
183
I ndex of Scientific names
13*
14
15
Acacia mearnsii
Acanthus ueleensis
Aframomum zambesiacum
Agarista salicifolia
16 , 152, 191
Agauria salicifolia#
16
17
Cassia nairobensis
Cassine aethiopica
Cassine velutinum
208
153
153
Caylusea abyssinica
Celosia sp.
Chasalia discolor
Chrysanthemum cinerariaefolium
Chrysophyllum gorungosanum
52
Chrysophyllum fulvum
55
Cissampelos pariera
Clausena anisata
56
57
22
53
54
55
Agave fourcroydes
Agave sisalana
Albizia gummifera
Albizia schimperiana
17
18
19
Allium ascalonium
20
Allium cepa
Allium sativum
Amaranthus cruentus
20
21
22
Clematis kirkii
58
Clematopsis villosa
58
Ampelosicyos scandens
221
Cleome gynandra
Amphicarpaea africana
Annona cherimola
23
24
Aphloia mauritiania
Aphloia myrtifolia
25
25
Aphloia theiformis
Argemone mexicana
Azadirachta indica
Bambusa vulgaris
Basella alba
25
26
27 , 40
28
29
Basella cordifolia
Basella rubra
29
29
Begonia sutherlandii
Berkheya echinacea subsp. polyacantha
Bersama abyssinica subsp. abyssinica
30
31
32
Bidens dolosa
Bidens lynesii
33
33
Bidens magnifolia
33 , 34
Bidens phelloptera
33
Bidens pilosa
Bidens pinnatipartita
Bidens schimperi
Bidens steppia
Blepharis grandis
34 , 138
37
Borreria dibrachiata
Bothriocline eupatorioides
215
38
Bothriocline longipes
Brassica carinata
38
Clematopsis scabiosifolia
Cleome pentaphylla
Clerodendrum johnstonii
Clutia abyssinica
60
61
Clutia pedicellaris
Clutia richardiana
61
61
Coffea mufindiensis
Coleus sp.
62
Coleus dazo
Coleus esculentus
Colocasia esculenta
Conyza bonariensis
Corchorus olitorius
Corchorus tridens
Coreopsis frondosa
Courbania glauca
Crassocephalum mannii
34
34, 35
12, 34, 36
58
12, 39, 59 , 130
59
14
183
183
63
10
59, 87
59
33
144
210
Crassocephalum vitellinum
Crassocephalum sp.
Crotalaria cleomifolia
Crotalaria natalitia
Crotalaria sp.
Crotalaria subcapitata
Cucurbita ficifolia
Cucurbita maxima
64
Cucurbita melanosperma
67
8, 69
64
65
65, 66
65
66
67
68
41
Cupressus lusitanica
Cussonia spicata
Cyathula uncinulata
Cyperus sp.
Cyphomandra betacea
Brillantaisia cicatricosa
43
Cyphomandra crassicaulis
72
Brillantaisia kirungae
43
Dalbergia lactea
73
Brillantaisia ulugurica
43
12, 44
Datura gardneri
Datura suaveolens
Desmodium aparine
44
44
74
Desmodium intortum
Desmodium repandum
Desmodium uncinatum
Diospyros whyteana
Diospyros mespeliformis
Dissotis melleri
Dissotis sp.
74 , 170
75
Brassica integrifolia var carinata
Brassica oleracea
Bridelia micrantha
Brugmansia sp.
Brugmansia suaveolens
Buddleja davidii
Buddleja salviifolia
Buddleja variabilis
12, 39
12, 39
39, 40, 136, 222
44
45
46
45
12, 47
48
70
71
71
72
74
76
Caesalpinia decapetala
Callistemon viminalis
Canarina eminii
Canna hybrida
49
50
Canthium guenzii
Canthium hispidum
Carica candamarcensis
135
135
51
Dodonaea angustifolia
77
77
12, 78
78
Carica pubescens
51
Dombeya burgessiae
79
Cassia didymobotrya
208
Dombeya dawei
Dombeya goetzenii
79
81
Dissotis whytei
Dodonaea viscosa
256
76
77
Dombeya rotundifolia
Dombeya torrida
Dovyalis abyssinica
80
81
82
Dracaena papau
83
12, 83
Dracaena steudneri
Duhaldea stuhlmannii
Ehretia cymosa
84
85
Ehretia sylvatica
85
Ekebergia capensis
Eleusine coracana
Emilia sp.
86
87
88
Ensete edule
89
10, 89
Ensete ventricosum
Entandophragma excelsum
Eriobotrya japonica
Erythrina abyssinica
Erythrina tomentosa
Eucalyptus grandis
Eucalyptus saligna
Eucalyptus sp.
Euphorbia abyssinica
Euphorbia candelabrum
Euphorbia nyikae
Faurea saligna
91
92
12, 93
93
94
94
5, 7, 12, 94
95
95
8, 95
96
Faurea speciosa
Ficus hochstetteri
96
98
Ficus lutea
97
Ficus persicifolia
98
98
Ficus thonningii
Flacourtia indica
Fuchsia gracilis
Fuchsia macrostemma
99
100
100
100
Hibiscus diversifolius
Hibiscus ludwigii
118
119
Hibiscus macranthus
Hypericum lanceolatum
119
121
Hypericum quartinianum
Hypericum revolutum
Hypoestes triflora
I boza riparia
I lex mitis
I mpatiens gomphophylla
I pomoea batatas
I pomoea involucrata
I pomoea tricolor
I pomoea wightii
I soglossa eliasbandae
Jasminum abyssinicum
Jasminum goetzeanum
Justicia diclipteroides
Kalanchoe lateritia
Keetia guenzii
Kniphofia princeae
Kotschya recurvifolia
120
121
122
123
12, 124
125
126
8, 128
129
128
130
131
132
133
134
135
136
4, 12, 87, 137
Lagenaria mascarena
138
Lagenaria sphaerica
Landolphia buchananii
138
139
Landolphia comorensis var. florida
Lantana camara
Lantana viburnoides
Leonotis myricifolia
Leonotis ocymifolia
Lobelia gibberoa
Lopholaena dolichopappa
164
140
140
141
141
142
143
Fuchsia magellanica
Galinieria saxifraga
Galinsoga parviflora
Garcinia kingaensis
Luffa sphaerica
138
101
102
103
Maerua decumbens
144 , 235
Maerua edulis
Maerua subcordata
144
144
Garcinia mlanjiensis
Geniosporum paludosum
103
104
Geniosporum rotundifolium
Gladiolus dalenii
104
105
Gladiolus natalensis
Gladiolus psittacinus
105
105
145
146
147
148
149
150
Gnidia glauca
Gnidia involucrata
Gouania longispicata
Grevillea robusta
Guizotia scabra
106
107
108
109
110
Gynandropsis gynandra
Gynandropsis pentaphylla
Gynura aurantiaca
59
59
64
Maesa lanceolata
Maytenus undata
Mikaniopsis tanganyikensis
Momordica foetida
Morus alba
Musa spp.
Myrianthus arboreus
Myrianthus holstii
Myrica humilis
Mystroxylon aethiopicum
Neoboutonia macrocalyx
Neorautanenia mitis
Gynura scandens
111
Gynura vitellana
Haemanthus goetzii
Haemanthus puniceus
Hagenia abyssinica
64
204
204
8, 12, 75,
Halleria lucida
Haumaniastrum venosum
Helianthus annuus
Helichrysum foetidum
112
113
114
115
116
Heteromorpha abyssinica
117
Olinia usambarensis
161
Heteromorpha arborescens
117
Heteromorpha trifoliata
117
118
Oreosyce africana
Osyris quadripartita
Parinari curatellifolia
162
163
164
Hibiscus cannabinus
Neorautanenia pseudopachyrhiza
155
Nicandra physaloides
Nicotiana tabacum
Nuxia congesta
156
157
158
Nuxia sambesina
Nuxia viscosa
158
158
Ocimum gratissimum
Ocimum lamiifolium
159
160
Ocimum suave
Ocimum viride
159
159
94
Olea sp.
Olinia rochetiana
257
151
151
152
153
154
155 , 235
161
Parinari mobola
164
Passiflora edulis
Passiflora ligularis
Pavetta spp.
Pavonia urens
Peddiea polyantha
Pennisetum purpureum
165
166
167
168
169
170
Pepo ficifolia
67
Peponium vogelii
Periploca linearifolia
Persea americana
Phaseolus coccineus
171
172
173
174
Phaseolus multiflorus
174
Phaseolus vulgaris
Phragmanthera usuiensis
175
176
Physalis maxima
177
14, 177
Physalis peruviana
Phytolacca dodecandra
Pinus patula
Piper capense
Pisum sativum
Pittosporum viridiflorum
Plectranthus caninus
Plectranthus defoliatus
Plectranthus esculentus
Plectranthus masukensis
Plectranthus punctatus
Plumbago zeylanica
Polygala virgata
Polyscias ferruginea
Polyscias fulva
Protea abyssinica
Protea gaguedii
Protea heckmanniana
Protea welwitschii
Prunus persica
Psychotria mahonii
Pteleopsis myrtifolia
Pycnostachys orthodonta
Pycnostachys ruandensis
Rumex quarrei
Rumex steudelii
200
200
Saccharum officinarum
Salvia coccinea
Salvia leucantha
201
12, 202
202
Sapium ellipticum
209
203
203
Satyrium macrophyllum
Satyrium neglectum var. neglectum
Satyrium shirense
Scadoxus puniceus
Schefflera goetzenii
Schefflera volkensii
Sechium edule
Senecio deltoids
178
179
180
181
182
184
184
183
184
184
185
186
187
8, 12, 187
188
188
188
188
189
190
191
192
192
203
204
205
12, 205
206
207
Senecio manni
210
Senna didymobotrya
208
Shirakia elliptica
209
Shirakiopsis elliptica
209
Shuteria africana
23
Solanecio mannii
210 , 212
Solanum guineense
Solanum melanocerasum
211
211
Solanum scabrum
Solanum nigrum
Solanum tuberosum
Solanum umalilaense
Sparrmannia ricinocarpa
Spermacoce dibrachiata
Steganotaenia araliacea
Swertia usambarensis
Syzygium cordatum
Tagetes minuta
Tecomaria capensis subsp. nyassae
Tecomaria nyassae
Telfairia pedata
Tephrosia vogelii
Thunbergia alata
Tricilia emetica
Tripsacum andersonii
211
35, 59
212
136, 213
214
215
216
217
12, 218
212, 219
220
220
221
224 , 235
225
226
227
Tripsacum fasciculatum
Tristemma incompletum
227
228
193
194
Tristemma mauritianum
228
Tristemma virusanum
228
Reseda abyssinica
Rhus glaucescens
52
195
Triticum aestivum
229
Triticum vulgare
229
Rhus natalensis
Rhus pyroides var. pyroides
195
196
Rhus vulgaris
196
Triumfetta annua
Triumfetta rhomboidea
Turraea floribunda
230
231
232
Ricinus communis
Rubia cordifolia
197
198
Turraea kaessneri
Vasconcellea cundinamarcensis
232
51
Rubus adolfi—friedericii
199
199
199
199
199
199
199
199
199
Vernonia adoensis
Vernonia myriantha
233
234
Vernonia shirensis
233
222
63
Pyrethrum cinerariaefolium
54
Ranunculus multifidus
Rauvolfia caffra
Rubus
Rubus
Rubus
Rubus
Rubus
Rubus
Rubus
Rubus
Rubus
Rubus
Rubus
apetalus
ellipticus
inganus
niveus
pinnatus
porotoensis
rigidus
schefflleri
spp.
steudneri
volkensii
Vigna unguiculata
Xanthosoma saggitifolia
Zea mays
* Numbers in bold are for main entries
# Names in italics are for synonyms
199
Rumex bequaertii
199
199
200
Rumex nepalensis
200
258
235