Plants visited by bees,
and other useful plants of
the Southern Highlands,
Tanzania
Harvesting honey
at Yalenga, Umalila
Paul Latham
Title: Plants visited by bees and other useful plants of the Southern Highlands, Tanzania.
Author: Paul Latham
Fifth edition: 2015
I SBN 978-0-9928986-1-8
Address for correspondence:- Croft Cottage, Forneth, Blairgowrie, Perthshire, PH10 6SW, U.K.
Email:- 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 ar eas
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.
“The most interesting thing to me was their knowledge of the flora of the area, and the uses
to which plants could be put – apart from whether or not they were good bee forage. They
knew where the best fibres came from, and what were good medicinal plants. The man I
used to go out with, Gichuhi, owned hundreds of hives…….. Gichuhi’s knowledge was
fantastic. But I was young at the time, and did not realize that this knowledge wou ld be
useful to posterity, so I never recorded anything.”
Jim Nightingale 1983
1
Eulophia streptopetala
“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
276
Glossary
280
References
283
I ndex of general and beekeeping photos
291
I ndex of common names
292
I ndex of vernacular names
294
I ndex of Swahili names
298
I ndex of scientific names
299
The African Plant Database http: / / www.ville-ge.ch/ musinfo/ bd/ cjb/ africa (APGI I I ) has been used for
plant names and families.
Unless stated otherwise names of the plants are given in Kimalila.
3
Map of the central area of the Southern Highlands from 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. I have also stayed at Fox’s Mufindi Highland
Lodge.
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 Flow ers 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 Bot any
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 Beentje 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, the
higher the better, to attract colonies to enter, to keep flying bees above people living nearby or
cultivating surrounding crops and to provide some protection from honey badgers (see also Nightingale
1983 p. 9). A serious pest, known as Homba in Malila, possibly the large spotted genet ( Genetta
tigrina), is also able to climb trees and can get into a hive probably looking for insects and rodents on
which it feeds. I t often gets into hives where the wood is rotten. New hives appear to be less at risk.
“I collect vast quantities of propolis from my hives and I use it for mending holes in water tanks and
guttering…I t is extremely useful”
Jim Nightingale (Nightingale 1983).
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 it. 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 t akes 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
ordinary 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 import ant 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
intenga ( Kotschya recurvifolia) and inzigula ( 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 ifipa ( Salvia coccinea), sisal, inyangwa ( Caesalpinia
decapetala), iteti (Dracaena steudneri) and intwiti ( Brugmansia spp. and Solanecio mannii) are also
important because of their long flowering seasons. Traditional vegetables – igagara ( Brassica carinata)
and umuzimu ( Cleome gynandra) are good sources of nectar and pollen. Many trees are important
pollen and nectar producers, for example eucalyptus, itanji ( Dombeya rotundifolia), iseve ( Erythrina
abyssinica), iliogoti ( Hagenia abyssinica), isangati ( I lex mitis), imogoro ( Schefflera spp. ), ifwomi
( Syzygium cordatum ), which grows around water sources, and impembati ( 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 iwoti ( 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
Abutilon longicuspe
(Malvaceae)
Common
names
Nyamabumu
(Hehe), mbiha (Swahili)
Description A perennial shrub 1.5 5 m tall. The stems have dense grey
hairs. Leaves are simple, almost
circular, stalked, up to 20 cm long
and 18 cm wide.
Ecology Grows from 1500 – 3000 m
on the edges of forests, in grassland
and
valley
bottom
vegetation
throughout East Africa and north to
Eritrea and Sudan.
Propagation Usually grown from
seed, but layers or cuttings can also
be used. As the plant is normally
plentiful it is not usually planted.
Uses Bees collect pollen and nectar.
The plant flowers from July to
September
in
the
Southern
Highlands. The plant is also known as a bee forage in Ethiopia and elsewhere in the dry savanna. The
stems produce a strong fibre which is used as string or woven to make baskets. I t is also used in house
building. I n Tanzania the flowers are collected during the rain season (January - May), chopped,
cleaned and cooked. Pounded groundnuts, onions and tomatoes are then added and it is eaten with
ugali (maize porridge) or rice. The plant is also grown as an ornamental.
Remarks The plant can become an invasive weed.
References Jex-Blake 1957, Cribb & Leedal 1982, Blundell 1987, Beentje 1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994,
Burkill 1997, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, Ruffo et al. 2002, Achigan - Dako 2012, Agnew 2013
13
Acacia mearnsii
(Fabaceae)
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 but
also grown commercially at altitudes between
1500 and 2500 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 cultivar which spreads by
root suckers is also present.
Management Trees should be thinned out and
kept weeded while young.
Uses Bees are reported to be the main
pollinators for this tree. 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. 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
14
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. 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 a 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. The flowers of A. pubescens
are reported to be a nectar and pollen
source in Bukavu. 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 1997,
Bakenga et al. 2000, Neuwinger 2000,
Llamas 2003, Burrows & Willis 2005
15
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 Also grows in Malawi, D.R. Congo, Cameroon and Nigeria in upland forests and secondary
growth often near paths and streams between 1450 and 2050 m altitude.
Right: Flowers and
fruits are borne on a
stalk 10 – 40 cm long.
Uses
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
16
Agauria salicifolia
(Ericaceae)
Synonym Agarista x salicifolia
Common names I zenya (Malila), nsenye (Nyakyusa), likalati (Wanda), mgema, mkolongo, (Hehe),
zenya (Sangu), morwe (Lambya), mkomolo (Fipa), myunguvo (Swahili)
Description A small, often twisted,
evergreen tree or shrub which grows
up to 12 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. 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 leaf
axils. Fruits are reddish-brown, round,
5 - 7 mm in diameter.
Agauria 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 Bioko, and widely
dispersed in eastern, central and southern Africa and in Madagascar. The shrub is fire resistant.
Uses Branches are used as
firewood.
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
and other skin problems.
Some people report that
bees visit the flowers. An
edible caterpillar (insega)
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. I n Kenya
the leaves are used as a
remedy for snake bite.
Remarks Though some people report 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 Bally 1937, Staner & Boutique 1937, Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Leedal 1975, Beentje
1994, Burkill 1994, Neuwinger 2000, Kihwele et al. 2001, Lovett et al. 2006
17
Agave sisalana
(Asparagaceae)
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 1000 and 1250 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 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 also provides sufficient
nectar for stimulating brood rearing. The honey
is however dark and of strong and unpleasant
flavour. The plant 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 Purseglove 1972, I wu 1993, Fichtl
& Adi 1994, Mbuya et al. 1994, van Wyk &
Gerricke 2000, Raemaekers 2001
Kikapu made from sisal fibre
18
Albizia gummifera
(Fabaceae)
Common names Mtanga (Hehe), malembelembe (Nyiha), mkenge (Swahili)
Description A large deciduous tree up to 30 m high. Bark is grey and smooth. Leaves are composed of
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 are 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 Present in eastern 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 2350 m. I t is often associated
with high altitude forests.
Propagation Can be grown from seed in seedbeds, 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 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 are sometimes 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
19
Albizia schimperiana
(Fabaceae)
Common names I ntanga (Malila), long podded Albizia
Photo: Bart Wursten
Description A semi-deciduous tree growing to 30 m, having an umbrella shaped crown. Bark smooth,
pale grey to brown. Small branches are covered with 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 also 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 2000 m. Also grows near water and in lowland areas
in eastern and central 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.
References Fichtl & Adi 1994, Mbuya et al. 1994, Msanga 1998, Lovett et al. 2006
20
Allium cepa
(Amaryllidaceae)
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.
Ecology Onions are usually planted
in May. 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
21
Allium sativum
(Amaryllidaceae)
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
eastern and southern Africa. The crop is
sometimes planted with onions. I t 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 - 2000 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 some well-formed 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 some
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 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 immediately 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
22
Allophylus africanus
(Sapindaceae)
Common names Black false currant
Description A very variable small tree or shrub with branched stems up to 10 m tall. The bark may be
black, grey or red-brown. Leaves are trifoliate and alternate. Leaflets are 2 – 14.5 x 1 – 7 cm. The
inflorescence is up to 15 cm long, the sweet scented flowers being small and either white, green or
yellow-green. Fruits are orange 0.5 – 0.7 x 0.4 – 0.5 cm.
Photo: Bart Wursten
Ecology Present on stream banks, in woodland thicket, grassland and on termite mounds throughout
tropical Africa.
Uses The small red fruits are edible and contain over 20% lipids. I n eastern Tanzania a leaf decoction
of this plant and Ocimum basilicum is given for convulsions. An infusion of the roots is used as a
medicine for coughs and colds and is also drunk by women during menstruation. The bark is also used
medicinally. Allophylus species are important bee plants in the
savanna. A. abyssinicus is a valuable bee tree in Ethiopia
providing both pollen and nectar. I n parts of West Africa the
leaves are put in the entrance of beehives and in the Central
African Republic the tree is planted at the entrance to the
beehive as it is believed to quieten the bees. The wood is
white, hard and dense, but has limited use because of its
small size. Roots and twigs are used as chewsticks, fuel and
charcoal. The firewood burns with a clear smokeless flame.
References FZ 1966, Williamson 1975, Beentje 1994, Fichtl
& Adi 1994, Malaisse 1997, van Wyk & van Wyk 1997,
Hepburn & Radloff 1998, Neuwinger 2000, Lovett et al. 2006,
Harris & Wortley 2008
Photo: H.J. Ndangalasi Tanzanian Plant Collaboration
23
Amaranthus hybridus subsp. cruentus
(Amaranthaceae)
Synonym A. cruentus
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 the Highlands, though important at lower altitudes. The green leaves
have 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
24
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 1680 –
2700 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, Agnew 2013
Pounding wheat at a home in Maendeleo
village
25
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
26
Aphloia theiformis
(Aphloiaceae)
Synonym A. myrtifolia
Common names I patatiho (Malila), mpomo (Hehe), 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.
Both photos: Bart Wursten, www.zimbabweflora.co.zw
Ecology Found in medium to high altitude evergreen forests, forested ravines and at forest margins.
Altitude range 1250 –
2450 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 The wood is
used to make pestles
for pounding maize
when preparing ugali
(maize porridge). The
white fruits are edible.
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
27
Argemone mexicana
(Papaveraceae)
Common names Mtunguja bonde (Sw), 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 plant is widely used as a medicinal plant. I t is believed to act as a painkiller, a diuretic,
and an anti-inflammatory. 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, Bosch 2007
28
Artemisia afra
(Asteraceae)
Common names I lumbati, inzenya (Malila), inyaga (Safwa), lunyaga (Kinga), wild wormwood, African
wormwood
Description
An erect
shrub up to 2 m high with
aromatic leaves, silvery
grey below up to 6 cm
long and nodding ochreyellow or pale yellow
flower heads. Flowers are
produced in May.
Ecology I n some places,
for example on the Kitulo
plateau (altitude 2400 m),
this can be the dominant
plant. I t is present in high
mountain
grassland,
wooded
grassland,
in
secondary vegetation, and
is a pioneer plant after fire
in Malawi. I t is widespread
from South Africa to
tropical East Africa and
Ethiopia.
Propagation Plants can
be grown from cuttings or
by division. I t can also be
grown from seed.
Left: Simon Langesan with
plants he was growing in
his garden
Management Stems should be pruned each year before the rains. Grow in an open situation.
Uses The leaves are used to treat coughs. They are also used for this purpose in South Africa as well as
for colds and influenza. The leaves are often inserted into the nose to clear blocked air passages. A
volatile oil is present which has antimicrobial, anti-oxidative and decongestant properties. When used to
treat bronchial troubles an infusion or a decoction is made into a syrup with sugar.
References Leedal 1975, Cribb & Leedal 1982, van Wyk et al. 1997, Burrows & Willis 2005,
Plantzafrica website (Accessed 19.1.2015)
29
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 (see
page 47). Split poles can be used for
baskets, roofing tiles (see page 39), 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.
30
Basella alba
(Basellaceae)
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 and often tinged
brownish-purple. Leaves are heart shaped, soft, shiny, dark green and have a pointed tip. The blade is
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,
particularly where partial
clearing has taken place.
Common in disturbed
areas, from 0 – 2450 m.
I t often grows in hedges
and around homes.
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
31
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. 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
32
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 1600 m in
the Southern Highlands and
western Tanzania, and is
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, Salter & Davenport 2011
33
Bersama abyssinica subsp. abyssinica
(Melianthaceae)
Common names I swago (Malila), mpeme, mnyatoma, mbasamono (Hehe), mwangwakw ao (Swahili),
winged bersama
Flowers produced in October at Sheyo
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.
Branch with fruit in June
34
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 2000 and 2400 m. Bersama abyssinica is widespread over much of Africa
though this subspecies does not occur south of Malawi.
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.
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. Elsewhere in Tanzania a
decoction of the stem bark is used to treat cancer and rheumatism. 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 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
35
Bidens magnifolia
(Asteraceae)
Common names I ndelengu (Kimalila)
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
are 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.
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
36
Bidens pilosa
(Asteraceae)
Common names I mbunya, masikari, ikapunika (Malila), livanivani (Hehe), black jack
Description An erect annual herb up to 1.5 m tall, with lower leaves usually made up of 3 leaflets,
each 8.5 cm long. The flowers, which are produced over a long period, are 1.5 cm across, and
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. I t nearly always grows on poor, exhausted soils from
400 – 2400 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 (indelengu), B. pinnatipartita (intengu), 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. Plant extracts
have shown anti-bacterial activity. Elsewhere in Tanzania the
leaves are used to treat stomach-ache and intestinal worms.
The roots are used to treat constipation and malaria.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Goode 1974, Kokwaro 1976, Crane et al. 1984, Burkill
1985, Blundell 1987, FAO 1988, Peters et al. 1992, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Bakenga et al. 2000, Ruffo et al.
2002
37
Bidens pinnatipartita
(Asteraceae)
Common names I ntengu
Description A robust branching
perennial herb or soft-wooded
shrub from 50 cm to 3 m high.
Leaves, up to 19 x 19 cm, are
borne on a stalk up to 5 cm long.
Flower heads are large, solitary
or up to 5 together. Ray florets
are yellow, disc florets are either
yellow or orange-yellow. The
fruits are shiny dark brown or
black and 4.5–7 mm long.
Ecology Grows at
edges of
montane forest, in montane
grassland with scattered shrubs,
and in forest regrowth. Also
present
in Angola,
Malawi,
Mozambique
and
Zambia
between 1500 – 2400 m.
Uses A good bee forage. Bidens
spp. produce a dense amber
honey with a strong aromatic
flavour which is sometimes
disagreeable.
References Crane 1975, White
et al. 2001, FTEA 2005, Burrows
& Willis 2005
Photo: Günter Baumann, Malawi
Track from I lembo to
Shilanga
Photo: David Watson
38
Bidens schimperi
(Asteraceae)
Common names Lizumba (Kimalila), nyatwanga (Hehe), imbotila (Safwa), mpangwe (Nyiha)
Description An erect or straggling,
branched herb growing 50 - 120 cm
high. The stems are angled and often
reddish. Leaves are opposite, 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.
Ecology A common weed in cultivated
land and also found on roadsides and
in open woodland up to 2400 m.
Widespread in Tanzania, and found
from Ethiopia and Somalia south to
Mozambique, Angola and South Africa.
Photo: Bart Wursten,
www.zimbabweflora.co.zw
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. Elsewhere in Tanzania the roots are used
medicinally to treat coughs and colds. A root decoction is drunk for chest pains and a leaf extract is
used as an enema for digestive problems in children.
Remarks The plant can be a serious weed.
References Wild et al. 1972, Williamson 1975, Kokwaro 1976, Cribb & Leedal 1982, FAO 1988,
Neuwinger 2000, Ruffo et al. 2002, Burrows & Willis 2005, Agnew 2013
Matambo Salima
with his family at
I zumbwe. The
house is roofed
with split bamboo
poles.
39
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 are normally cultivated in June and July, the actual flowering
season may be restricted.
Ecology A common weed
of cultivation, especially in
maize below 2000 m. I t is
also commonly found in
grassland, on roadsides and
at forest edges. I t is
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. 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
40
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.
41
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, on
a stalk up to 4 cm long. The
violet coloured flower heads
are about 6 mm across.
A
butterfly
( Precis
Left:
octavia) collecting nectar from
a flower head near I lembo.
Ecology Commonly found on
forest edges. Also present in
highland grassland, usually on
rocky outcrops, and in long
grass in high rainfall wooded
grassland. Also present beside
rivers at lower altitudes. The
plant grows in similar sites
plant
over much of Kenya at
altitudes between 1300
and 2440 m and in
Sudan, Malawi, Rwanda
and Burundi, and into
D.R. Congo and Angola.
Uses Bees collect nectar
from the flowers and are
also reported to collect
nectar in Bukavu. They
also collect abundant
nectar and pollen from a
B.
related
species
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, Bakenga et al. 2000, Neuwinger 2000, White et al. 2001,
Burrows & Willis 2005, Agnew 2013
42
Brachystephanus africanus
(Acanthaceae)
Common names I nswina (Malila), kolese (Swahili)
Description An erect shrubby plant, usually growing to 1 m tall, from a rhizome. Leaves are opposite,
11 – 18 cm long on a stalk 1 – 4 cm long. Purple flowers are produced on a spike 9 – 19 cm long.
Plant photographed in I lomba forest near Maendeleo
Ecology Grows as an understorey
plant in mountain rainforest. Also
present in eastern D.R. Congo,
Burundi, Uganda and Malawi.
Uses Reported as a bee forage. I n
Kisangani a decoction of the leaves
of a species of Brachystephanus is
used to treat gonorrhoea.
References Staner & Boutique
1937, White et al. 2001, Flora of
Zimbabwe
website
(Accessed
9.2.2015)
Photo: Bart Wursten
43
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 dry.
I n warm climates seed is readily produced.
Ecology Commonly cultivated in East Africa
between altitudes of 1500 and 2600 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
1600 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 commonly used as a
vegetable. Leaves are soft textured and have a mustard-like taste.
Sometimes the leaves are mixed with those of Cleome gynandra and
then boiled and dried. The cooked vegetable has a sharp odour but is
Bee collecting pollen
not bitter. The plant is also grown as a fodder for livestock. I n
and nectar
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.
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
44
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 ( 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, Bakenga et al. 2000, Schippers 2002,
Mvere & van der Werff 2004
45
Bridelia micrantha
(Phyllanthaceae)
Common names I liyisia (Malila), mwisya (Nyakyusa), sengamino (Nyiha), mpalang'anga, nmwesa
(Hehe), 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 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
46
can also be cooked with soup and mixed with milk 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 drunk 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 mushroom may be found below 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, Mbuya et al. 1994, 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.
47
Brillantaisia cicatricosa
(Acanthaceae)
Synonym B. ulugurica
Common names I nswina
Description A large shrub
up to 4 m high. Leaves are
coarsely toothed. Flowers
are pollinated by carpenter
bees.
Ecology
Grows
near
streams and
in
moist
undergrowth in medium
altitude to mountain forest.
Brillantaisia cicatricosa
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
Lehmann 1989, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Bakenga et al. 2000, White et al. 2001
Photo (Right):
Bart Wursten
48
Baerts
&
Brugmansia suaveolens
(Solanaceae)
Synonym Datura
gardneri, Datura
suaveolens
Common names
I ntwitwi (Malila),
moonflower, white angel's
trumpet
Moonflower being grown as a hedge at I lembo
Description A shrub
growing to 3 m. Leaves
are large, soft and hairy,
20 – 25 cm long. Flowers
are
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.
Ecology Originally from south-eastern Brazil but commonly grown in the Southern Highlands. I t will
grow up to an altitude of 2400 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
49
Buddleja davidii
(Scrophulariaceae)
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.
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
50
Buddleja salviifolia
(Scrophulariaceae)
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 1200 – 2500 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 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
51
Caesalpinia decapetala
(Fabaceae)
Common names I nyangwa (Malila), Mysore thorn, Mauritius thorn
Description A thorny shrub 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. Seedpods are leathery, about
8 cm long and 1 cm
wide, and contain 4 – 9
seeds.
Caesalpinia decapetala being grown as a hedge
Ecology
Commonly
grown as a hedge plant.
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 –
2130 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.
References FTEA 1971, Wild et al. 1972, Williamson 1975, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Mbuya et al. 1994, Burkill
1995, Bakenga et al. 2000, Neuwinger 2000, I bnu Utomo 2001
52
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. 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. 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)
53
Canarina eminii
(Campanulaceae)
Common names Fundofundo (Malila), lenyeshe (Safwa)
Description The plant, which is covered with a waxy surface, usually grows as an epiphyte. 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 , up to 5 cm long. The flower is funnel shaped, up to 7. 5 cm long,
yellow to orange-red with veins running the length of the flower tube. The fruit is a berry.
Ecology Grows in upland or riverine forest. I t either grows on other plants or among rocks. I t has an
altitude range of between 1600 and 3200 m.
Propagation The plant can be grown from
cuttings taken from the base 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 C. abyssinica in Ethiopia.
References Cribb & Leedal 1982, Blundell
1987, Brickell 1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994,
Agnew 2013
54
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 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. I n other
countries the rhizomes are used to
promote urination.
References
Jex-Blake 1957, Uphof
1968, Brickell 1994, Bryan 2002, Llamas
2003
55
Caylusea abyssinica
(Resedaceae)
Synonym Reseda abyssinica
Common
names
Ukwipa
(Malila), lukalifya, mkalifya (Bena
& Hehe)
Description
An erect herb,
occasionally bushy, usually an
annual plant but sometimes a
short-lived perennial. Leaves are
2 – 8 cm long and narrow.
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 1200 and 3000
m. Present in Sudan and Ethiopia
and 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 The
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, Blundell 1987,
Peters et al. 1992, Fichtl & Adi 1994,
Ruffo et al. 2002, Jansen 2004
56
young
leaves
and
Cenchrus purpureus
(Poaceae)
Synonym Pennisetum purpureum
Common names I sale (Malila), elephant grass, Napier grass
Description A robust, deep rooted, erect perennial grass with stems growing to 2 – 6 m and forming
large clumps. Leaves 30 - 120 cm long by 1 - 5 cm wide with a prominent midrib. Leaf sheath is hairy.
Napier grass being grown to protect terraces and for animal fodder
Ecology Widely planted in Africa up to an altitude of 2000 m. I t prefers a deep fertile soil though will
grow in a wide variety of soils. I t does not stand waterlogging but can withstand periods of drought.
Propagation Most easily planted using stem cuttings having at least 3 nodes. Cuttings are planted
diagonally or vertically with 2 nodes below ground. For good soil conservation plant along the contour at
a close spacing. 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 best the 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
together to fix nitrogen.
Uses A valuable grass for erosion control when planted in a continuous line along the contour at 2 m
vertical intervals. I t is a good forage grass, 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.
References Bogdan 1977, ‘t Mannetje 1992,
57
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 and mist forest
from 1300 to 1950 m
altitude.
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
an amenity tree in Tanzania. Other species are used medicinally.
References FTEA 1976, Beentje 1994, Lovett et al. 2006
58
Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium
(Asteraceae)
Synonym Pyrethrum cinerariifolium
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 borne on a long slender stalk. Flowers, 3 – 4 cm in diameter, are borne singly on long stalks.
The plant is 99% cross pollinated and, though honeybees are not greatly attracted to the flowers,
reports indicate that seed yields and pyrethrin content are improved when beehives are placed in
pyrethrum fields in East Africa. 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 1500 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, though the area under the crop varies according to market
conditions.
References Gunn 1953, Purseglove 1968, Acland 1971, Crane & Walker 1984, Roubik 1995, Stoll 2000
59
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.
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
tree
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. 1995, Lovett et al. 2006
60
Cinchona sp.
(Rubiaceae)
Common names Quinine,
Peruvian bark, cinchona
Description A small tree, up
to 16 m tall. Leaves glabrous,
7 – 28 cm long and 2.5 – 13
cm wide. Flowers yellowishwhite to pink 8 – 17 mm
long. Fruit up to 25 mm
long.
Ecology
Originally
from
South America. I ntroduced to
East Africa in the 1930’s. I n
Kenya it is grown between
2000 and 2400 m altitudes.
Avoid soils that have been
burnt over. Grows best in
humid sites.
Propagation Can be grown
from seed or vegetatively.
Seed bed should have a fine
tilth and be protected from
wind, rain and direct sunlight.
Seed is broadcast. Seedlings
can be transplanted into the
field when 1 – 1.5 years old.
I n vitro culture is commonly
used nowadays.
Management
Plants start
flowering after 3 - 4 years
and
are
uprooted
and
harvested after 8 - 12 years.
Uses The bark is the traditional source of
quinine, the anti-malarial drug which is now
largely replaced by synthetic substances
which have fewer side effects, though with
resistant strains of malaria developing, there
has been a return of interest in cinchona. I t is
also used as a bitter flavouring in soft drinks,
hair oils, shampoos, sun-tan oil and
insecticides. The tree is also used as an
agroforestry species. Bees collect nectar from
the flowers.
References Staritsky, et al. 1999, Bakenga
et al. 2000
61
Cissampelos pareira
(Menispermaceae)
Common names Lusisia (Malila), mlagalaga (Swahili)
Description An 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. I t also grows in secondary vegetation and near rock outcrops between 0 – 2300 m.
Uses Reported as a bee plant . 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. I n Tanzania the plant is
also used to treat hookworm, diarrhoea,
miscarriage, headache, excessive bleeding
during menstruation, fever and hernias.
References
FTEA 1956, Watt & BreyerBrandwijk 1962, Kokwaro 1976, Neuwinger
2000, Taylor 2005, Agnew 2013
Photo: Pedro Acevedo-Rodriguez USDA-NRCS
PLANTS Database
62
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
1500
and
2300
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.
Right: Young fruits
forming on a bush at
Shilanga
Uses 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
63
Clematis villosa subsp. villosa
(Ranunculaceae)
Synonym C. kirkii, Clematopsis villosa, C. scabiosifolia
Common names I kuwi, shumwe (Malila), makalichoma (Hehe), 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, 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 often
occurs on stony ground at
medium to high altitudes
in woodland and wooded
grassland and is seen
after bush fires. Also
present in Kenya, central
and South Africa and in
northern
Nigeria
and
Cameroon.
Uses The plant is used to
treat coughing. Parts of
the plant are also mixed
with
uji (thin
maize
porridge) probably to give
it flavour. 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 inhaled 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 u sed together with
Hermannia betonicaefolia to treat chest complaints in South Africa.
References Watt & Breyer-Branwijk 1962, Wild et al 1972, Leedal 1975, Cribb & Leedal 1982, Burkill
1997, Neuwinger 2000, Agnew 2013, Zimbabwe Flora website (Accessed 20.1.2015)
64
Cleome gynandra
(Cleomaceae)
Synonym Gynandropsis gynandra
Common names Umuzimu (Malila), mgagani, mwangani (Swahili), cat's whiskers, spider plant
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 2400 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. They are rich in vitamin A and C. 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, FAO 1988, Dupriez & De Leener 1989, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Chweya & Mnzava
1997, Schippers & Budd 1997, Maundu et al. 1999, Bakenga et al. 2000, Schippers 2002, Mnzava &
Chigumira 2004
65
Clerodendrum johnstonii
(Lamiaceae)
Common names Nanjoha (Malila), limunsi (Safwa), ntonongwe (Nyiha), mpambaduma (Hehe), blue
butterfly bush
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 from May and July. 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 f or
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
66
Clutia abyssinica
(Peraceae)
Common names Smooth fruited Clutia
Clutia abyssinica bearing fruit in April, growing in a hedge near Sasyaka
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. Present from Zimbabwe northwards to Ethiopia at altitudes between 700 and 2300 m.
Uses I n East Africa the roots are boiled in soup and drunk to treat headaches, malaria and stomachache. The leaves are boiled and the vapour inhaled 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
67
Coccinia grandiflora
(Cucurbitaceae)
Common names Tandawuzi
Description A vigorous creeper which scrambles over bushes and trees. Leaves are 7 – 18 cm long and
7 – 20 cm wide, shallowly to deeply 5-lobed. Tendrils are usually in pairs, one branch often very weakly
developed. Male flowers
1· 5 – 7· 5 cm are borne
singly. Corolla orange or
apricot-yellow. Female
flowers are solitary or
paired; corolla often
larger than in male
flowers,
otherwise
similar. Fruit 8 – 30 ×
1· 5 – 2· 5 cm cylindrical,
bright red on ripening;
fruit-stalk stout, 4 – 6· 5
cm long.
Photos: Norbert
Holstein
Found
in
mountain rain forest in
Tanzania,
Kenya,
Malawi
Mozambique
and Zimbabwe.
Ecology
Uses Used as a
medicinal plant in
Umalila though no
details were given.
Elsewhere the leaf
sap is drunk to
ease childbirth and
a root decoction is
drunk
to
treat
intestinal worms.
FZ
1978, Neuwinger
2000, White et al.
2001
References
Photo: Günter Baumann
68
Yalenga village from I siolo forest
Nyasalandi Nayomo climbing to
inspect one of his 13 hives
69
Coffea mufindiensis
(Rubiaceae)
Common names Kahawa msitu, mpacha (Hehe), 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 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 1600 to 2100 m in the central, eastern
and Southern Highlands of Tanzania. Also present in Malawi, 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
70
Colocasia esculenta
(Araceae)
Common names Amasimbi (Malila), magimbi (Swahili), taro
Description
A perennial
herb growing from 1 to 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. 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 Both corms and leaves are eaten. The soft, white corms 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
71
Cotoneaster pannosus
(Rosaceae)
Common names Silver-leaf Cotoneaster
Description A large, quick growing, sprawling shrub which may grow to over 3 m tall. Leaves are oval
in shape. Attractive white flowers and red/ orange berries containing 2 seeds are produced.
Ecology
Originally
from
China.
It
prefers cool areas
over
1500
m
altitude.
Propagation Easily
grown from seed or
cuttings.
Management
Needs hard pruning
to make it thick.
Uses An important
nectar source for
honeybees.
The
nectar probably has
a high sugar content
and
is
very
attractive to bees.
The fruits are very
attractive to birds
which are the main seed dispersal agents.
References Jex-Blake 1957, Pellett 1976, Howes 1979, Johannesmeier & Allsopp 1995
72
Crassocephalum rubens
(Asteraceae)
Common names Enzumba
Description An erect, annual herb up to 70 cm tall. Leaves are alternate, arrow shaped and deeply
toothed. The single blue, or occasionally white, flower heads are borne at the end of long stalks. The
flowers are produced between April and September.
Crassocephalum rubens flowering in June in an old maize field in Umalila.
There are about 24 species of Crassocephalum in tropical Africa, a number of which are eaten as
vegetables. Variation in taste in Malawi means that some types are regularly eaten, others only in times
of shortage.
Ecology The plant occurs as a weed in farm land, along roadsides, mostly at higher altitudes. I t is also
common in grassland, wooded grassland and disturbed places in Malawi. The plant is found throughout
tropical Africa and in Lesotho, South Africa and Yemen.
Propagation is by stem cuttings 20 – 25 cm long, obtained from mature shoots. I t can also be grown
from seed.
Management The plant is only cultivated in south-western Nigeria where it is grown as a vegetable,
often among cocoa trees. I t is grown in well-drained soils with a high organic matter content. Removal
of the flowering shoots encourages leaf production.
Uses Bees were seen visiting the flowers in June. Bees collect pollen and nectar from this and other
species of Crassocephalum where plentiful and, because of the long flowering period, it is probably
useful for building up the strength of colonies and producing honey. The leaves are commonly eaten in
south-western Nigeria, less so in other humid zones of West and central Africa. They are mucilaginous
and used for soups and sauces. The taste is variously described from ‘mild’ (Uganda) to ‘slightly stinging’
(Malawi). I n Uganda the leaves are dried, chopped and cooked with peas or beans. I n Malawi the leaves
and young shoots are cooked with groundnuts and tomatoes are added. The plant also has medicinal
use to treat stomach-ache, liver complaints and colds, and externally to treat burns, sore eyes, earache,
leprosy and breast cancer. Elsewhere in East Africa it is used as an antidote for poisoning.
References PROTA 2004, Baumann 2005
73
Crassocephalum vitellinum
(Asteraceae)
Common names Enzumba, chuma (Malila), ngerengere (Nyakyusa)
Description A trailing annual or perennial herb, growing from 30 to 150 cm tall. Leaves are sessile, 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
1050 – 2550 m. Also found in Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia,
D.R. Congo, Nigeria and Cameroon.
Uses I n Umalila the leaves are used to treat stomachache. 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 D.R. 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, anaemia, 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, Bakenga et al. 2000, Neuwinger 2000,
Burrows & Willis 2005
74
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 cult ivated ground. Altitude range 1150 – 2550 m. Locally
common and widespread in tropical Africa.
Propagation
Suggested
propagation is by seed or
semi ripe cuttings.
Uses Bees were seen visiting
this plant in June. 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 & BreyerBrandwijk 1962, FTEA 1971, Kokwaro 1976, NAS 1979, Blundell 1987, Brickell 1994, Burrow & Willis
2005
75
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,
riverine forest, and present
on roadsides and cultivated
ground. Altitude range 0 –
3000 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 used in this way
and may also be dried for
later use. The leaves are
Crotalaria natalitia growing in forest
sometimes 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. The leaves are
chewed and spat onto burns or dried and then crushed and applied to burns. Bees were seen visiting
this plant 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.
76
Cucurbita ficifolia
(Cucurbitaceae)
Common names Dabwidi (fruit),
kawiru (leaves) (Malila), mboga
ya kimaasai 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 1000 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. 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 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
77
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 and 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. 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 2000 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. 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, Bakenga et al. 2000, Chigumira Ngwerume & Grubben
2004
78
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 1000 – 4000
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 also 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
79
Cussonia spicata
(Araliaceae)
Common names I pombo (Malila), mpombo (Nyakyusa), limpombo (Wanji), katikisa (Fipa), mpombo
(Nyakyusa), mnyonzi, mynyonzolo (Hehe), umbrella 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.
Ecology Normally
found on dry
upland forest edges, riverine forest
and wet upland forest. A pioneer tree
growing between altitudes of 1450
and 2500 m. Found from Sudan to
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.
Bees were seen visiting in July. I n Umalila young
trees are sometimes uprooted and the roots eaten.
The thick 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 snake bite, malaria, constipation,
indigestion and the roots as an emetic and to treat
fever, venereal disease and uterine pain. 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
References
Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962,
Maturing fruit
Williamson 1975, Kokwaro 1976, Coates Palgrave
1983, Beentje 1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Venter &
Venter 1996, Neuwinger 2000, Ruffo et al. 2002, Hankey & Sisulu 2004, Lovett et al. 2006
80
Cyathula uncinulata
(Amaranthaceae)
Common names I mbunya (Malila – the name is
given to plants which stick to clothing).
Description A soft-hairy, 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. The flowers form into a burr.
Ecology Grows profusely along the forest edge.
Found in extremely different habitats from moist
forest, riverside vegetation, open bush-land and
rocky places. Altitude range 1290 – 2880 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. Beekeepers say that when
livestock return home with the burrs sticking to
their coats it is time to harvest honey.
References Kokwaro 1976, FTEA 1985, Blundell 1987, Neuwinger 2000, Agnew 2013
Drying wheat on a rush mat
81
Cyphomandra betacea
(Solanaceae)
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 clust ers 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
1200 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, Mbuya et al. 1994, I CRAF 1998,
Katende et al. 1999
82
Dalbergia lactea
(Fabaceae)
Common names Mulembo, ishuwa
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 2220 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. 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 treat 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 & Konda ku Mbuta 2014b
83
Delphinium leroyi
(Ranunculaceae)
Common names Manyambimbwi (Kinga)
Description An erect perennial herb 0.4 – 1.5 m tall which may sometimes be hairy. Leaves are
dissected and borne on long stalks from the base of the plant. The scented flowers are up to 6 cm
across, white with sometimes a green spot on each segment and a long ascending spur, 3 – 4 cm long.
The anthers are black-purple. The plant is pollinated at dusk by hawk moths.
Photo: David Watson
Ecology Widespread in eastern and central Africa from southern Sudan and Ethiopia south to Malawi,
growing in grassland, on forest margins and in bushland from 1300 to 2900 m. I t also does well in the
montane grasslands of the Poroto mountains and on the Kitulo plateau where it flowers from February
until May often with the orchid Satyrium sphaeranthum . Also present on the Nyika plateau and often
common and conspicuous in the landscape up to 2400 m in Malawi & Zambia.
Propagation Delphiniums can be grown from fresh seed or from cuttings.
Uses A scented, ornamental plant.
References FTEA 1952, Jex-Blake 1957, Leedal 1975, Hay 1978, Cribb & Leedal 1982, Blundell 1987,
Lebrun & Stork 2003, Burrows & Willis 2005, Salter & Davenport 2011, Agnew 2013
84
Desmodium intortum
(Fabaceae)
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. 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 also
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
85
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 1000 and
3300 m altitude. 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, Bakenga et
al. 2000, Neuwinger 2000,
Burrows & Willis 2005,
Agnew 2013
Photo: David Watson
86
Diospyros w hyteana
(Ebenaceae)
Common names I fita (Malila), mtonga, litonga, msisina (Hehe), 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
across central and southern
Africa and also 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
87
Dissotis melleri
(Melastomataceae)
Synonym D. whytei
Common names I zolokwale, bumburankwale, nzumbakwale (Malila). Dissotis species are generally
known as mituruka, kitwana, bulenge, nyikata, nyangomale (Nyakyusa), izonywa (Safwa), kibobonge
(Hehe), litenga, imomona (Kinga)
Description A shrub 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 edge 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
88
Dodonaea viscosa
(Sapindaceae)
Synonym D. angustifolia
Common names I nzigula (Malila), kambitanga (Nyakyusa), isanyungu (Ndali), likufwa, luhahi (Hehe),
madihani (Kinga), 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
later turn brown.
Ecology Grows from sea level to 2800 m
but is most common on rocky soils and in
dry mountain forests in Tanzania. Found
throughout Africa from Sierra Leone t o
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
sometimes grown as a hedge. I t is a useful plant for
soil conservation measures and wind breaks. 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). 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, Leedal 1975, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Mbuya et al. 1994, van
Wyk et al. 1997, I CRAF 1998, Burrows & Willis 2005, Lovett et al. 2006
89
Dombeya burgessiae
(Malvaceae)
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 w hite 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 1200 –
3000 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 t he
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. Dombeya species produce
exceptionally good honey with
fine crystallization. Sometimes the nectar flow from Dombeya species may be so great it drips to the
ground. 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 fire-sticks. 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, Nightingale 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
90
Dombeya rotundifolia
(Malvaceae)
Common names I tanji (Malila), mpangala (Kinga), litanji, tanji (Nyiha), mkangatowo, mlati (Hehe),
wild pear
Description A fast growing deciduous
tree up to 4 - 5 m tall. Bark is deeply
furrowed. Leaves oval to almost circular, 6
- 18 cm across, rough, often hairy below,
edges unevenly toothed and stalked. The
leaves dry up to be very crisp and hard.
The whitish-pink flowers are borne in
multi-flowered 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. The trees are found over a wide
range of altitudes, from Ethiopia to South
Africa, usually in wooded and open
grassland. They often grow near termite
mounds. 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 more commonly used.
Bows are made from the strong flexible branches.
Wood is tough but often twisted. I t is used for
I ntanji caterpillar
tables and chairs and tool handles. I t is termite
resistant when seasoned. The roots are used medicinally. An edible 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
‘I n particular one has to mention the Dombeya, which, in my opinion, produces the nicest honey one
can find anywhere in the world.’ (Nightingale 1976)
91
Dombeya torrida
(Malvaceae)
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 1800 and 3300 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 1000 to 2000 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. As with the previous species the nectar is
sometimes so plentiful it drips to the ground. 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, Nightingale 1983, Egli & Kalinganire 1988, Rochelau et al. 1988, Beentje
1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Katende et al. 1995, Lovett et al. 2006
92
Dovyalis abyssinica
(Salicaceae)
Common names I sogwa (Malila), mditsi, mgola (Hehe)
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 is 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 1500 to 3000 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. 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, Dharani
2002, Lovett et al. 2006
Photo: Najma Dharani
93
Dracaena steudneri
(Asparagaceae)
Common names I teti (Malila), msamaka, mshindamaji (Swahili), 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
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. Altitude range
1250 – 2100 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.
Uses Sometimes planted
as a boundary hedge.
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. I n Tanzania the root is used as a remedy for rheumatism and to relieve wind. I n
Ethiopia the root is used in baking.
Dracaena steudneri flowering in October
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Coates Palgrave 1983, Bekele-Tesemma et al. 1993,
Beentje 1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Mbuya et al. 1994, White et al. 2001, Burrows & Willis 2005, Lovett et
al. 2006
94
Echinops giganteus
(Asteraceae)
Common names Echinops
Photos: David Watson
Description An erect shrubby herb up to 2
m high with ribbed stems. Leaves are large,
up to 60 cm long and 25 cm wide, sharply
toothed, green above, and greyish below.
The fragrant flower head is globular, 8 – 15
cm in diameter, and white or cream.
Flowering occurs over a long period.
Ecology Present in disturbed forest and
degraded bushland, along forest edges and
roadsides between altitudes 1100 and 2300
m.
Propagation Echinops species can be
grown from seed or root cuttings.
Uses Honeybees collect pollen and nectar
very frequently and the plant is a honey
source where it is abundant.
References Hay 1978, Fichtl & Adi 1994
95
Ehretia cymosa
(Boraginaceae)
Common names I tundumusi (Malila), mkangalanyabu (Hehe)
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
stalks 1.2 – 3.5 cm long. The tree is often covered with the small, white, sweet scented f lowers. The
plant was seen in flower in October.
Ecology Common between altitudes 500 and 2700 m in high rainfall areas of Tanzania. I t often occurs
in secondary medium-altitude evergreen bush in Ethiopia. Found in western 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 n
Ethiopia it is planted around dwellings
to attract bees to the hives. The
valuable timber is used 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.
References Bally 1937, Burkill 1985, Blundell 1987, FAO 1988, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Hepburn & Radloff
1998, White et al. 2001, Lovett et al. 2006
96
Ekebergia capensis
(Meliaceae)
Common names I hoho (Malila), mng’ongo (Fipa), mnyamati (Hehe), lurulamono, muvulamono
(Kinga), 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
3000 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
Both photos: Geoff Nichols
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 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 straw
coloured 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 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
97
Elephantopus scaber subsp. plurisetus
(Asteraceae)
Common names Prickly leaved elephant’s foot
Description A coarse erect herb growing up to 1.3 m from a rosette of stalked basal leaves 7 – 62 cm
long and 1.5 – 10 cm wide. Stem leaves clasp the stem. All parts are covered with a mat of long hairs.
The inflorescence is a tightly clustered stalkless greyish head with pinkish flowers.
Ecology Found in wooded grassland, often on rocky hillsides. Altitude range 850 - 2050 m. Also present
in Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Angola and D.R. Congo.
Uses E. scaber has been shown to have antimicrobial properties. Ground roots are used to treat ulcers.
A decoction of the aerial parts is used to treat fever in Rwanda and a leaf tea is drunk for stomach pain
and digestive disorders. Leaf sap is swallowed for fever accompanied by dysentery.
References FZ 1992, FZ 2000, Neuwinger 2000, Burrows & Willis 2005, Agnew 2013
98
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 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 1000 and
2000 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 being particularly rich in calcium,
phosphorous and iron. 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. 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. Finger millet straw is
strong and used for thatching and making baskets and food containers. I t also 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 dif ficult.
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, FAO 1988, BOSTI D 1996, Maundu 1999, de Wet 2006
99
Embelia schimperi
(Primulaceae)
Common names Lisyamo (Malila), igalilonji (Nyiha)
Description A straggling bush or climber up to 6 m long with long trailing branches and short stiff side
shoots. The leaves are up to 8 x 4 cm with a rounded tip and red midrib on a stalk up to 2 cm long.
Flowers are fragrant, very small, green-white and cream coloured. The numerous round fruits, 6 mm
across, turn red to purple when ripe. Flowers are fragrant but it is not known whether bees visit them.
Photo above: Robert von Blittersdorff: eastafricanplants@senckenberg.de
Ecology Grows along roadsides, in
thickets, on the edges of forest in
medium to high altitude areas, 1000 –
3200 m. The bush grows in a wide
range of soils but is not common. I t is
found across central Africa and north to
Ethiopia.
Right: a bush growing near I tare forest
Uses Young leaves, which have a salty
taste and are rather like sorrel, may be
eaten raw in small amounts. The plants
can also be used as a livestock fodder.
Leaves are chewed to relieve a sore
throat in Umalila. The fruit is widely
used as an anthelmintic in Ethiopia,
central and eastern Africa, particularly for tapeworms.
References Staner & Boutique 1937, Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Beentje 1994, Burkill 1997,
Neuwinger 2000, White et al. 2001, Ruffo et al. 2002, Burrows & Willis 2005, Mergo et al 2013
100
Englerina inaequilatera
(Loranthaceae)
Common names I sheshero
Description A parasitic shrub, growing on a wide range of host plants, producing spreading stems up
to 1 m long. The twigs are slightly compressed, either having some short hairs or glabrous. Leaves dull
pale green, often coppery reddish when young 3 – 12 cm long and 0.5 – 4.5 cm wide on a stalk 1 – 7
mm long. Flowers, 4 – 12 per umbel, are yellow, orange or red and produced in most months with the
main flush after the
rains from April to
August. Berries are
red to red-purple,
sometimes
partly
white, 4 – 5 mm
diameter.
Ecology
Common
at
forest
edge.
Widespread
in
mountain and midaltitude rain forest
and
adjacent
bushland.
Also
present in Malawi,
Mozambique
and
eastern
Zambia.
mainly at edge of
montane
forests;
1500 – 2700 m.
Englerina inaequilatera growing at the edge of I soho forest
Uses
Englerin
has possible use
in
cancer
treatment.
References
FTEA
1999,
White
et
al.
2001, Burrows &
Willis 2005
Photo: Robert von Blittersdorff www.eastafricanplants@senckenberg.de
101
Ensete ventricosum
(Musaceae)
Synonym E. edule
Common
names
I gawo
(Malila),
mabangala (Nyakyusa), tochi (Fipa),
lilimbili (Hehe), 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 the Southern
Highlands where it is 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
Ensete ventricosum in forest in Umalila
lowland forests. Rainfall range 900 – 2250 mm. The plant
can be found growing wild in many parts of sub-Saharan
Africa. I t thrives in the cool tropics between 1700 – 2450 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
from
buds
which
are
produced
by
hollowing out
the central bud
at the top of
the corm and
packing it with
soil and manure.
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
102
Uses 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 photo). 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 photo). 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 pseudo-stem and
Ensete ventricosum in flower
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, Purseglove 1972, Williamson 1975,
Kokwaro 1976, FAO 1988, Peters et al.
1992,
FTEA
1993,
Beentje
1994,
Raemaekers 2001, Ruffo et al. 2002,
Schippers 2002, Lovett et al. 2006, NRC
2006
Ripe fruits (imbidio) 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.
photo
103
Entandrophragma excelsum
(Meliaceae)
Common names I hale (Malila), mwovu (Fipa), 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 1500 and 2000 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 planted 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 were 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, Lovet t et al. 2006
104
Erigeron bonariensis
(Asteraceae)
Synonym Conyza bonariensis
Common
names I pekeso
asthma weed, hairy fleabane
(Malila),
Description An erect, softly-hairy, annual
herb up to 120 cm tall. Stems are semiwoody at the base, ribbed, hairy and often
not branched below the inflorescence. The
leaves are variable with the upper ones
alternate on the stem, while the lower
ones are in a rosette at the base. The
leaves are sessile, hairy, spear-shaped, 4 8 cm long and 1 - 2 cm wide, sometimes
deeply serrated. The inflorescence is a
long leafy, axillary panicle with clusters of
numerous small, dull-yellow to brown
florets about 6 mm long on ascending
stalks. Large quantities of wind borne
seed are produced.
Ecology A common weed of cultivated
fields, open waste places and roadsides
and widely found in the tropics.
Uses I n Umalila the young leaves are
used to treat wounds and sores and also
to treat unspecified sickness in poultry.
The dried plants are used for lighting fires
and to smoke beehives when harvesting
honey. I n East Africa the leaves are
crushed and used to treat fever, an
infusion of the leaves is given to children
as a laxative, for stomach ache and as an
antidote for the bite of a puff adder. Ash
from burning the whole plant is used as a
salt substitute in Uganda.
References Akobundu & Agyakwa 1987,
Katende et al.1999, Kokwaro 2009, Kindi
(personal information 29.10.14).
Photo: Altavista
105
Eriobotrya japonica
(Rosaceae)
Common
names
I nsongwa
loquat
(Malila),
Description A compact
tree growing up to 7 m
high
and
branching
close to the ground.
The bark is grey and
rough. Leaves are up to
35 cm long. Flowers are
cream
to
white,
scented, in pyramid like
tufts at the ends of
branches. The flower
buds are 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. The tree is grown occasionally in home
gardens and does well in the Tanzanian highlands from 1500 – 2400 m. I t is drought resistant once
established and prefers an acid, well-drained soil. The best fruit is produced in sheltered areas.
Propagation Usually direct
sown, or by transplanting
seedlings or wild seedlings.
No treatment is necessary
but the seed should 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
fruit is between 16 and 20 kg per annum.
harvest. Normal yield of fruit per tree
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. Because of the long flowering period the tree 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 the nectar is high, from 30.5 to
65% , and pollen yield is also good. Honeybees are probably the main pollinators. 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.
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 & Walker 1984, Crane et al 1984, Macmillan 1991, Nguyen Tien Hiep &
Verheij 1991, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Mbuya et al 1994, I CRAF 1998
106
Erythrina abyssinica
(Fabaceae)
Common
names
I seve,
esebe
(Malila), mtiti (Fipa), muhemi (Hehe),
kihere (Kinga),
mwamba ngoma,
(Swahili), red-hot poker tree, lucky
bean tree
Description A small deciduous tree
from 5 to 15 m high with deeply
grooved bark. 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 on well-drained soils
between 1250 and 2400 m altitude.
Trees can be planted near the home
and around field boundaries without
affecting crop yields. The tree tolerates
fire and is moderately 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.
Traditionally the leaves were
sometimes used instead of
spoons. The leaves provide
fodder for sheep and goats,
Erythrina abyssinica flowering in October
and also make good mulching.
The 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, Mbuya et al. 1994, Van Wyk et al. 1997, I CRAF 1998, Bakenga et
al. 2000
107
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, though erratic,
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, Nightingale 1983, Crane & Walker 1984, Crane et al. 1984, Mbuya et al 1994,
Brooker & Kleinig 1996, I CRAF 1998, Bakenga et al. 2000
108
Eulophia streptopetala
(Orchidaceae)
Description A robust plant,
50 – 100 cm tall, growing
from green pseudo-bulbs.
About 5 pleated leaves, up to
60 cm long and 8 cm wide
are produced as the plant
starts to flower on the upper
part
of
a
long
erect
unbranched stalk. Flowers
are 3 – 4 cm across. The
orchid is in flower between
November and January.
Ecology Widespread in the
Southern Highlands between
altitudes of 2000 and 2600
m. Found in grassland, in dry
meadows in hollows in open
grassland and on the margins
of thickets. Found from
Yemen and Ethiopia south to
South Africa.
Uses Tubers of some orchid
species are made into a
paste after being cleaned,
peeled and mashed. This is
then mixed with a banana
ash extract, made from
dripping water through the
ash. Peanuts and other
ingredients are then added
and cooked. I t is then made
into a pudding like cake.
However the over-collection
of tubers has led to some
orchid species becoming rare.
References Cribb & Leedal
1982, FZ 1998, Davenport &
Ndangalasi 2003, Malaisse
2010, Agnew 2013
109
Euphorbia nyikae
(Euphorbiaceae)
Common names I langali, irangari
Description A 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 2000 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 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. 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
110
Faurea saligna
(Proteaceae)
Common names Vunda vunda (Malila), msega (Fipa), mhenyi, mwemba (Hehe), sense (Nyiha),
beechwood, red beech
Description A deciduous shrub or slender tree growing up to 17 m high with a dense crown. The trunk
is often twisted and the bark is grey to black and deeply fissured. 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. Seed is dispersed by wind.
Ecology. Found in both low and high
altitude forest. Common around forest
edges in Tanzania. Trees are often left
standing in crop-land. The tree is
commonly associated with poor, sandy
or rocky soils.
Propagation Use fresh seed but trees
are not easy to grow.
Management
Trees grow rather
slowly. They can withstand some fire
damage but not very fierce grass fires.
Uses
Photos: Rotational (Wikipedia)
windbreak. The bark can be used
for tanning and dyeing. The wood
is resistant to termites and borers.
References
Watt & BreyerBrandwijk 1962, Wild et al. 1972,
Williamson 1975, Coates Palgrave
1983, Crane et al. 1984, FTEA
1993, Beentje 1994, Mbuya et al.
1994, Burkill 1997, I CRAF 1998,
SEPASAL 1999, van Wyk & Gericke
2000, Kihwele et al. 2001
111
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 toffee-like, strong and
malty. The honey is black and solidifies
fairly quickly. The timber is used for
furniture and construction work. The
hard, yellow-brown heartwood has an
attractive, net-like 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. I n
Zimbabwe the leaf and root are used
for ear troubles and in East Africa the
root is used to treat diarrhoea and
indigestion. The leaves make good
mulching. The tree can be grown as a
Ficus lutea
(Moraceae)
Common names I ndolo, indola (Malila), mtsombe (Hehe), mkuyu (Swahili), giant leaved fig
Description A large spreading,
buttressed tree, often having a
short trunk, but which may
grow up to 20 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 veins and are
7 – 25 cm long and 3 – 12 cm
wide, simple, alternate and in a
spiral. The leaf stalk 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. Pollination is carried out
by a wasp.
Ecology Although this tree normally grows beside
rivers in the lowland tropics, it is also present in
some highland situations. I t grows 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.
Uses The stakes are used for cattle bomas. 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 fed to livestock.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Coates Palgrave 1983, Berg & Wiebes 1992, Burkill 1997,
Dharani 2002, Burrows & Burrows 2003, Burring 2004, Lovett et al. 2006
112
Ficus sur
(Moraceae)
Synonym F. capensis
Common names Mutsombe, msombe (Hehe), mdzombe (Bena), unku (Fipa), mkuyu, mkuju (Swahili),
Cape fig, broom cluster fig
Description A medium sized, fast growing, sturdy tree up to 20 m tall, with a rounded crown. Bark is
smooth at first becoming rougher and darker with age. Abundant latex is produced from any damaged
part. Leaves are 4 – 20 cm long and 3 – 13 cm wide. Fruits are borne in branched, leafless trusses
which may have from 10 – 100 fruits per truss. Figs are produced mostly low down on the trunk and
can even appear at ground level, arising from the roots. Pollination is carried out by wasps.
Ecology Present in a wide variety of habitats and distributed from Ethiopia to South Africa and across
to West Africa. Grows on river banks and in montane forest but can also be found in drier woodland.
Propagation Seed is washed and sown without covering. Germination is fast and seedlings grow
quickly. Transplant into containers and plant out when 1 m tall. Cuttings and truncheons can also be
used for propagation. Avoid planting the tree close to buildings or where the roots can get into drainage
pipes.
Uses The figs are widely eaten when they turn pink and soft. Those forming on the roots are said to be
the sweetest. Wood is soft and white and used for mortars, beehives and drums. The tree is often used
as a shade tree. The inner bark can be used to make rope. The Hehe soak the bark in water and the
liquid is taken by women breast feeding. The liquid is also rubbed on the breasts to improve lactation.
The latex is used to make balls. Bees may collect the juice from the fruits.
Remarks The tree appears to trap water and other moisture loving plants grow in its shade. I t does
not compete with agricultural crops.
References Deschodt 1976, FAO 1988, Berg & Wiebes 1992, Katende et al. 1999, Dharani 2002, Ruffo
et al. 2002, Burrows & Burrows 2003, Hankey 2003, Lovett et al. 2006, Lumbile & Mogotsi 2008
113
Ficus thonningii
(Moraceae)
Common
name
I vum
(Malila),
mrumbapori (Swahili)
Description
A
very
variable
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.
In
particular livestock relish
the
dry
leaves.
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. Jam can be
made from the fruit. The
latex can be used instead
of glue.
References Cobbina &
Reynolds 1988, Keay 1989, Berg & Wiebes 1992, Mbuya et al. 1994, Venter & Venter 1996, I CRAF
1998, Maundu et al. 1999, Neuwinger 2000, Lovett et al. 2006
114
Flacourtia indica
(Salicaceae)
Common names I sugwa (Malila), mwanga (Fipa), mgola (Hehe), mchongoma, mgo, mgovigovi,
mkingili (Swahili), 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 2400
m.
Present
throughout
Tanzania and sometimes left
on farms or cultivated. I t is
sometimes grown as a hedge.
I t is widespread in tropical
Africa, Madagascar, Seychelles
and Malaysia.
Propagation The tree cannot
Branch of a tree growing near Yalenga
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 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
pains, snakebite and infertility. Roots are used
to treat sore throats and coughs. The wood is
Photo: Ken Love, University of Hawaii
white and tough and used for firewood,
charcoal, spoons, beds and for building. The tree can be grown as a hedge or windbreak. Bees are
reported to visit the flowers.
References FAO 1988, 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
115
Fuchsia magellanica
(Onagraceae)
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
trimmed back to form a thick hedge.
be
Uses Sometimes used as a hedge plant
around homes. 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
reported to be an important honey source in
New Zealand.
References Jex-Blake 1957, Hay 1978,
Howes 1979, Crane et al. 1984
116
Galiniera saxifraga
(Rubiaceae)
Common name I liepwa (Malila), mmafimafi (Hehe)
Description A shrub or small tree up to 14 m tall with smooth grey bark, and often having long
downward curving 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 diameter.
Ecology The tree grows in moist forest, often near water, between altitudes 1850 and 2400 m. I t is
present from Sudan and Ethiopia through eastern D.R. Congo and Rwanda and into Malawi and Zambia.
Uses 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
117
Galinsoga parviflora
(Asteraceae)
Common names I kuvengwa, kapunika (Malila), Kew weed, gallant soldier
Description A small annual much branched herb up to 20 cm high but it may grow to 60 cm in fertile
soils. 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. 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.
Reference Uphof 1968, Kokwaro 1976, Burkill 1985, Goode 1989, Fichtl & Adi
1994, Katende et al. 1999, Maundu et al. 1999, Neuwinger 2000, Schippers 2004, Agnew 2013
Khatanta forest near Maendeleo village
118
Garcinia kingaensis
(Clusiaceae)
Common
names Penausiku,
mpukuso
(Malila),
mfilafila,
msilasila (Hehe),
kisongwe
(Kinga), 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 cross 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 understorey 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
Garcinia kingaensis in flower
at Sheyo in October
119
Gladiolus dalenii
(I ridaceae)
Common names I shirungu,
shilungu
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 damp grassland
above 2000 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.
Photo left: David Watson
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 taken for dysentery.
Smoke from burning the corm is inhaled to treat
a cold. The plant is also used medicinally in
Sudan, eastern D.R. Congo, Benin, Togo,
Rwanda and Ethiopia. Also grown as an
ornamental.
Remarks Porcupines may dig up and eat the
corms.
References Jex-Blake 1957, Watt & BreyerBrandwijk 1962, Cribb & Leedal 1982, Hessayon
1984, Philips & Rix 1997, Neuwinger 2000,
Agnew 2013
120
Gloriosa superba
(Colchicaceae)
Common names I tindi (Malila), mkolwe (Fipa), vitosambili (Hehe), kukuliko (Nyiha), mwana funzi,
msafari (Swahili), gloriosa lily, flame lily
Description A scrambling or climbing herb with stems up to 4 m long arising from a deep-seated Vshaped rhizome which elongates each year. Leaves are spear-shaped, 8 – 20 cm long and 1 – 5 cm
wide, most ending in a coiled tendril. Flowers are large solitary, usually yellow, red or purple, 4 – 9 cm
long and 2 – 3 cm wide; the ovary and stamens stand out prominently. Fruit is oblong, 6 cm long.
Flowers appear in the dry season or towards the end of the rains.
Photo: David Watson taken at Shilanga
Ecology The plant is widespread in the Southern Highlands up to 2700 m, being found in grassland,
forest edges, thickets and in cultivated land.
Propagation Can be grown from seed though these may take up to 4 months to germinate. Seedlings
should be planted straight out in an equal mix of garden soil and compost. Small tubers can also be
planted. Handle them carefully as they are brittle and fragile. Only split or move them in the dormant
season. Provide shrubs or a trellis for the plants to scramble over.
Uses The Ulanga people use tuber juice to treat earache. There are a number of other medicinal uses
but the roots are known to be highly poisonous. I n I ndia the bulb is known for its tonic properties, and
is also used to treat intestinal worms. The plant is widely cultivated as a garden ornamental. The
flowers attract butterflies but not bees. The seeds, and to a lesser extent, the tuber contain colchicine
which is used to treat gout. Sap from the leaf is used for pimples and skin eruptions in South Africa.
References Leedal 1975, Burkill 1995, Mutshinyalo 2001, Pousset 2004, Dounias 2006, Agnew 2013
121
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 up to 13
m tall with fibrous bark. Leaves are alternate, 3 – 6.5 cm long and 0.8 - 1.6 cm wide, appearing as a
rosette 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. The flowers,
produced from June to October, are reported as a bee forage. The roots are boiled and the liquid drunk
to treat indigestion.
References Kokwaro 1976, FTEA 1978, Cribb & Leedal 1982, Beentje 1994, Burkill 2000, White et al.
2001, Burrows & Willis 2005
122
Gnidia involucrata
(Thymelaeaceae)
Common names Suwaji
Description An erect perennial herb with green to reddish stems, growing from a creeping, woody
rhizome. Stems may also be 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. 25 – 40 yellow or creamy-yellow,
(sometimes orange-red or pinkish to red) flowers are produced each about 1.5 cm long and having
large reddish or brown bracts, 8 – 10 mm long. The plant usually 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 1500 m in the Southern
Highlands. Also found in open and wooded grassland and in deciduous bushland and woodland between
1000 – 2700 m altitude, in Ethiopia, Sudan, Uganda, and
south to Mozambique.
Uses Bees were reported to visit the flowers. I n
Marakwet, Kenya the stalk is chewed to help clear
mucous from the respiratory system.
References Cribb & Leedal 1982, Blundell 1987,
Neuwinger 2000, Agnew 2013
Photo: Robert von Blittersdorff
www.eastafricanplants.senckenberg.de
123
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
Bart Wursten, www.zimbabweflora.co.zw
the forest and on forest
margins in mountain areas
between 1100 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. 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, pus filled
abscesses. I n Tanzania the stems are used for tying.
References FZ 1966, Crane et al. 1984, Beentje 1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Burkill 1997, Hepburn &
Radloff 1998, White et al. 2001, Burrows & Willis 2005
124
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 2300 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
also 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 farmers are interested in it and it is likely to become
more commonly 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
125
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. Also found in abandoned fields. I t is widespread in
Tanzania between the altitudes of 1520 and 2780 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. 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 Ethiopia. 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 & Walker 1984, Crane et al 1984, Blundell 1987, Fichtl & Adi 1994,
Katende et al. 1999, Ruffo et al. 2002, Bosch 2004, Agnew 2013
126
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. Flowers are produced in October.
Ecology Grows in hedges,
at forest margins and in
clearings, often near water,
up to an altitude of 2100 m
in
Tanzania,
Kenya,
Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi,
D.R. 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 D.R. 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, Agnew 2013
127
Hagenia abyssinica
(Rosaceae)
Common names I liogoti (Malila), mtulenya, mturunga, nturunga (Nyakyusa), mfoono (Bena), mdobole
(Hehe), mkumburu, mturunga (Nyiha)
Description A 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 1850
– 3700 m where mean annual rainfall is
between 1000 and 1500 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. The tree 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.
It
does not
compete with crops if
managed
to
prevent
shading. The dry female
flowers are used as a deworming treatment.
References
Staner
&
Boutique 1937, Fichtl & Adi
1994, Mbuya et al. 1994,
I CRAF 1998, East & Thurow
1999, Lovett et al. 2006
Hagenia abyssinica flowering in October at Shilanga
128
Halleria lucida
(Stilbaceae)
Common names Mkuka (Hehe), 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 stalk 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 1400 – 2450 m. Found from South Africa to Angola, Ethiopia and Yemen.
Propagation Easily propagated by layering but can also be grown from seed. Dry the seeds 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
129
Haumaniastrum venosum
(Lamiaceae)
Common names I nuha, inuka (smelling strongly Malila), African mint
Description An erect herb to 50 cm tall. The
mauve to blue flowers are produced in dense
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 Cribb & Leedal 1982, Paton 1997,
Agnew 2013
A large clay jar used for water storage, cooking or beer making
130
Helianthus annuus
(Asteraceae)
Common names Amabangayeye (Malila), alizeti (Swahili), sunflower
Description An annual plant
with
large
flowers.
The
common 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
2590 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. Spraying for bollworm
infestation Heliothis armigera caused losses of honeybees in East Africa. 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
131
Helichrysum foetidum
(Asteraceae)
Common names Enzumba (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 have
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.
Growth is rapid.
Ecology Common in open grassland. 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.
Photo: Robert von Blittersdorff
www.eastafricanplants.senckenberg.de
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. 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, Agnew 2013
Heavy loads! A woman carrying water and a boy carting un-burnt building bricks in I lembo
132
Helichrysum odoratissimum
(Asteraceae)
Common names Enzumba
Description A rather straggling, woody herb, 30 – 120 cm tall, with erect stems bearing dense heads
of yellow flowers. Large clumps may be formed and the flowers are persistent. The leaves have a smell
of curry. The plants below were photographed in June.
Ecology Grows on grassy or rocky slopes, often colonizing bare areas. I t is common throughout
Tanzania between 910 – 2100 m and is also present in Kenya and Uganda, D.R. Congo, Zimbabwe,
Malawi, Mozambique and South Africa.
Propagation Use seed or stem cuttings and plant out in a light well drained soil with adequate
compost.
Uses The smoke from burning the plant is sedative and
reported to repel insects and parasites. I t is burnt in huts
in Lesotho to fumigate them. I t is also mixed with fat to
make a pleasant smelling ointment used by women. I t is
inhaled to treat coughs and colds in South Africa. The
plant is also boiled and applied as a facial ointment to
treat pimples. The plant is also boiled in water or in milk
to treat coughs and colds. Some Helichrysum species are
important bee fodder.
References Burkill 1985, Blundell 1987, van Wyk et al.
1997, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, van Wyk & Gericke 2000,
Nonkululeko Swelankomo 2004, Burrows & Willis 2005,
Kokwaro 2009, Agnew 2013
Photo: Bart Wursten
133
Helichrysum schimperi
(Asteraceae)
Synonym Achroline schimperi
Common names Enzumba
Description A low growing creeping soft
shrub up to 8 m long. Leaves c. 7.5 x 4.5 cm,
ovate, white below. I nflorescence a rather
loose head of tightly packed yellowish, pinkish
or white heads. The photo on left was taken in
October.
Ecology Edges of montane rain forest and in
transition woodland at lower altitudes. Present
in eastern Africa from Ethiopia to Mozambique.
Uses Leaves are chewed or the roots are
pounded, soaked in water and the liquid drunk
with beef fat as a cough remedy in Tanzania.
As with other Helichrysum the flowers are
likely to be important honey bee forage in dry
southern savanna and afromontane zones.
References Hepburn & Radloff 1998, White
et al. 2001, Kokwaro 2009, Wedekind &
Sutton 2009, Agnew 2013, Flora of Zimbabwe
(Accessed 6.112.14).
Brick making near I lembo
134
Photo: David Watson
Heteromorpha arborescens var. abyssinicus
(Apiaceae)
Synonym H. abyssinica
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, somewhat 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
135
Hibiscus diversifolius
(Malvaceae)
Common names I wawa (Malila), mhang’ana (Hehe)
Description A shrub up to 3 m high. The hairy stems
are 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 cannabinus.
Ecology Found in field margins and on roadsides.
Grows in scrub or forest in West Africa and is widely
dispersed throughout Africa. Hibiscus species grow
best between altitudes of 1800 and 2100 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 Malila. They are eaten with
beans, after the black base has been removed.
Elsewhere in Tanzania the bitter leaves are wilted then cooked with peas or beans. 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,
Hibiscus diversifolius grown as a hedge
Neuwinger 2000, Ruffo at al. 2002, Agnew 2013
136
Watt
&
Breyer-Brandwijk
1962, Wilson 1967, Williamson
1975, Hay 1978, Wilson 1978,
Fichtl & Adi 1994, Burkill 1997,
Hibiscus ludw igii
(Malvaceae)
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 1520 and 2440 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. 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, Agnew 2013
137
Hypericum quartinianum
(Hypericaceae)
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. The glossy green 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.
Ecology Usually
found in rocky places,
gulleys and on river banks in deciduous
woodland or in upland grassland. Grows up to
an altitude 2800 m. Present from Ethiopia to
northern Malawi.
Photo: Robert von Blittersdorff
www.eastafricanplants.senckenberg.de
Propagation
Can be grown from root
suckers and 12 cm cuttings. Seed germination
is poor.
Uses Reported as a bee forage. 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, Nightingale 1983, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Hepburn & Radloff
1998
138
Hypericum revolutum subsp. revolutum
(Hypericaceae)
Synonym H. revolutum
Common names Giant St. John’s wort, curry bush
Description
A
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. They are,
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 Widespread in the Southern Highlands. A characteristic plant of the Afromontane rain forests
and evergreen bushland, found from 1800 – 2900 m, especially along the upper tree limit and often
associated with Hagenia- 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. I n East
Africa the powdered dried leaves and stems are used to treat diarrhoea and rheumatism. 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.
Remarks When in flower it colours the hillsides yellow in a similar way to Kotschya recurvifolia.
References Smith 1956, FZ 1961, Wild 1972, Brummitt 1973, Leedal 1975, Nightingale 1983, Blundell
1987, Burkill 1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Bryant 1996, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, Neuwinger 2000, White et
al. 2001, Dharani 2002, Burrows & Willis 2005
139
Hypoestes triflora
(Acanthaceae)
Common names I nswina ilinsi
Description A straggling annual herb, 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. Flowering
occurs in October and November.
Ecology Grows in forest shade and beside footpaths
and waterways at altitudes between 1200 and 3050
m in East Africa, Rwanda, Ethiopia and Malawi.
Above photo: Cameron McMaster
www.eastafricanplants.senckenberg.de
Uses Reported as a good bee plant. Bees
frequently collect pollen and large quantities
of nectar in Ethiopia. The plant is 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, Agnew 2013
Pitsawers at work near Maendeleo
140
I lex mitis
(Aquifoliaceae)
Common names I sangati (Malila), pofwe-honsi
(Fipa), 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. Found in moist to dry upland forests and
thickets, also in woodland beside streams
between altitudes of 900 and 3000 m. I t can be
found 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. 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
141
I mpatiens gomphophylla
(Balsaminaceae)
Common names I mbogwa
Description An erect herb, 1 m tall
occasionally up to 1.5 m. Stems
become
red
and
are
usually
unbranched. Leaves are toothed and
spirally arranged. 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 1200 and
2650 m. Widely distributed in Malawi,
Zambia and southern D.R. Congo.
Left: I mpatiens
I lembo in May.
gomphophylla
near
Uses Bees 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, Salter & Davenport 2011
Honey labels used to sell honey from Umalila beekeepers
142
I ndigofera hedyantha
(Fabaceae)
Synonym I . goetzei
Common names I vizi (Malila) for all species of I ndigofera
I ndigofera hedyantha photographed near Yalenga in April
Description A straggling, erect rather woody herb, up to 150 cm tall. Branches are rather densely
covered with short white, brown or black hairs. Leaves are composed of 7 – 11 leaflets, up to 15 mm
long and 3 mm wide. The inflorescence is a raceme having 5 – 17 flowers. The black fruit pods are
cylindrical, up to 4 cm long and contain up to 8 seeds.
Pollination The bisexual flowers of I ndigofera arrecta are cross-pollinated only by bees.
Ecology Found in forest edges and in grassland subject to burning. Present in Mbeya and I ringa
regions in Tanzania and also in Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique and South Africa between 1400 and 2600
m altitudes.
Propagation Seed of other species is soaked overnight to soften the hard coat before planting. Seed
can be sown broadcast or transplanted from a nursery.
Uses Bees are reported to visit the flowers. Bees are known to collect pollen and nectar from I .
zavattarii in Ethiopia. I t is an important bee forage in the northern dry savanna zone in Africa.
Remarks There are over 60 species of I ndigofera in the Southern Highlands. One of the most frequent
is I . atriceps.
References Cribb & Leedal 1983, Crane & Walker 1984, FTEA, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Hepburn & Radloff
1998, Agnew 2013
143
I nula stuhlmannii
(Asteraceae)
Synonym Duhaldea stuhlmannii
Common name Uwutupwa, isasami, ikusa
Description A vigorous creeper which scrambles over other plants. Flowers are produced in October.
Ecology Grows at the forest edge at around 2000 m altitude. 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.
References
Soil erosion is a serious problem
in some parts of the Southern Highlands.
Planting crops or fodder grasses, such as
Napier or Guatemala grass, along the contour
can reduce soil erosion considerably.
144
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 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 30 - 60 cm in the rows, and
90 - 150 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 t wo are eaten as vegetables. Vines are also
used as a livestock feed. Bees sometimes collect nectar from the flowers.
Reference Purseglove 1968, Acland 1971, Kay 1973, Bakenga et al. 2013
145
I pomoea cairica
(Convolvulaceae)
Common names Nyakapulikilo (Hehe), kiazi pori (Swahili), railway creeper
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 seen 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 – 1890 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. 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 is 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, Agnew 2013
146
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 –
2700 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 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 with a fine 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
FTEA 1963, Hay 1978, Crane et al. 1984,
1985, Blundell 1987, Brickell 1994, Fichtl
1994, Martin et al. 1998, Bakenga et al.
Neuwinger 2000, Agnew 2013
1962,
Burkill
& Adi
2000,
Left: A basket made from bamboo strips tied
together with fibre from I pomoea involucrata.
147
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 fading
in the afternoon.
Ecology The plant is often found in recently cleared forest land and in hedgerows. I t originates from
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
148
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
producing good quality honey. A related
species, I . deliculata, produces a heavy nectar
flow over a short period in South Africa. Honey
produced is mild but has a characteristic
flavour. Two other species yield nectar and
pollen in Ethiopia. Elsewhere in Tanzania the
leaves of I . lactea are cooked with coconut
milk or pounded groundnuts and eaten with
the staple food.
References Crane et al. 1984, Fichtl. & Adi 1994,
Ruffo et al. 2002
Tabia and Mwaji collecting leaves of Cleome gynandra in a garden in I lembo
149
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,
and are either solitary or in
clusters of a few flowers. They
have a strong sweet smell.
Photo: Bart Wursten
Ecology Found at the edges of
upland evergreen forest and in
mountain bushland, especially
near running 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 for tying the frame in hut construction. The Maasai use the roots to make soup.
Bees have been reported visiting 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, Agnew 2013
Grain stores on a farm at
I zumbwe. The store on
the left was for maize
and that on the right for
finger millet.
150
Jasminum odoratissimum subsp. 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 1440 – 2430 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.
References FTEA 1952, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, White et al. 2001, Burrows & Willis 2005
151
Justicia diclipteroides
(Acanthaceae)
Common names I nswina
Description A variable trailing herb
which roots at the nodes. Leaves up
to 8 cm long. I t has scattered purple
to pink flowers about 8 mm across in
the upper leaf axils.
Ecology Common at the edges of
evergreen forest between altitudes of
1220 and 2130 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
Williamson
1975,
Blundell 1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994,
Hepburn & Radloff 1998, Agnew 2013
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.
Photo
152
Kalanchoe densiflora
(Crassulaceae)
Common names I tivwa (Malila), itifya (Ndali), mbokaboka (Kinga), inyongabembe (Nyakyusa)
Description A variable succulent perennial plant growing up to 1.5 m tall, having fleshy leaves, the
lower ones up to 12 cm long and 10 cm broad but the upper ones smaller. The inflorescence is up to 20
cm long, composed of many tubular bright red or yellow flowers each about 1.2 cm long. The flowers
appear in the dry season between August and November.
Kalanchoe densiflora growing in forest
Ecology Widespread above 1800 m, and particularly
common on roadsides and forest margins. Also found
near rivers and lakes, edges of swamps, mostly on
rocky ground and common in disturbed places.
Propagation Stem cuttings, offsets or leaf cuttings
root easily.
Uses The warmed leaves are applied to bruises. The
juice from dried leaves is applied to septic wounds. The
leaves are also used for massaging swellings. The
flowers of other Kalanchoe species are occasionally
visited by bees for nectar.
References Cribb & Leedal 1982, FTEA 1987,
Neuwinger 2000, Gachathi 2007, Kokwaro 2009, Agnew
2013, CJB (Accessed 12.12.2014)
Photo: Colin Reid
153
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 2000 m throughout
Tanzania
and
in
bushgrassland 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.
References Kokwaro 1976, Cribb & Leedal 1983, Blundell 1987, FTEA 1987, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Agnew
2013
Selling Solanum
umalilaense in
I lembo
154
Keetia gueinzii
(Rubiaceae)
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 – 2450 m. Found
from Cameroon to Ethiopia and south to the Eastern
Cape in South Africa. 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
155
Kniphofia princeae
(Xanthorrhoeaceae)
Common names I susumba
(Malila), tindi (Nyiha), 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 and are
borne towards the end of the
rain season.
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 1800 to
2300 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, Leedal 1975, Williamson 1975, Brickell 1987, Fichtl & Adi
1994, Johannsmeier & Allsopp 1995, Stern 2002, Burrows & Willis 2005
156
Kotschya recurvifolia
(Fabaceae)
Common names I ntenga, ntenga (Malila), ntenga, lufunye (Nyakyusa), matenga (Bena & Kinga),
iwelesi (Hehe), ndenga (Ndali)
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. The golden yellow flowers are borne in
dense masses and are 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 1800 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 the dry season from May
onwards. 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 Leedal 1975, Cribb & Leedal 1982, Beentje 1994, FZ 2000, Burrows & Willis 2005, Agnew
2013
157
Kotschya uguenensis
(Fabaceae)
Common names Mwerete (Hehe)
Description An erect shrub 1.8 – 4.5 m tall. The plant has an unpleasant smell. Stems are covered
with sticky, bristly, yellow hairs.
Kotschya uguensis in flower in October at Maganga farm, near Mufindi
Ecology Found at the edges of upland forest, upland evergreen bushland and moor land and also
recorded from Syzygium swamp forest between altitudes of 1000 and 2010 m. Also present in
Mozambique, Malawi and Zambia.
Uses As with K. recurvifolia this plant is likely to be a good bee forage.
References FTEA 1971, Brummitt 1973, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, FZ 2000, Burrows & Willis 2005
158
Lagenaria sphaerica
(Cucurbitaceae)
Synonym 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. Leaves are rather rigid, palmate, 5 - 18 cm across, with toothed margins. Both surfaces
have rough, short hairs. The tendrils split in two. The flowers are large, fragrant, and open in the
evening. They are velvety or creamy-white 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 fruits, which are found throughout the year, hang from a stout stalk and are 6
-10 cm across. They have a hard shell and whitish flesh and have a unpleasant smell when ripe. Seeds
are 1 – 1.5 cm long. The flowers are pollinated by bees, ants and flies.
Ecology Grows over hedges in villages. Found naturally in tropical and southern Africa from Somalia
down to the Western Cape in South Africa. The plant grows in full sun and semi-shade in forest
margins, on river banks and in dry river beds. The flowers are produced throughout the year, but mainly
from December to May.
Propagation 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. 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, Agnew 2013
159
Landolphia buchananii
(Apocynaceae)
Common names I lonji (Malila),
liwungowungo (Hehe),
(Swahili), rubber vine
mbungo
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
1600 m. Plants produce more fruits
on the forest edges. Present in
West Africa, the Congo basin and to
Kenya, Uganda and Ethiopia and
south to Zimbabwe.
Propagation
grown
from
cuttings.
Can
seed
be
or
Uses
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,
and are particularly used
when constructing the roof
of a house.
References Beentje 1994,
White et al. 2001, Ruffo et
al. 2002, Burrows & Willis
2005, Agnew 2013
160
Lantana viburnoides
(Verbenaceae)
Common names I sawi
Description A lemon scented shrub or woody herb up to 1 m high.
Ecology The plant above was growing beside the road at approximately 2000 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
161
Leonotis ocymifolia
(Lamiaceae)
Common names I fipa (Malila), inyunyu (Kinga), nakafundo (Fipa), infwonfwo (Nyiha), linyominyomi
(Bena), lisanzauki (Hehe)
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 bushland or in
open areas in woodland above 1950 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 headaches. 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, Ruffo et al. 2002, Burrows
& Willis 2005
Left: L. myricifolia is also present and bees were
seen collecting nectar on a windy day in July.
162
Lobelia gibberoa
(Campanulaceae)
Common names I woti, piriti, idudwi (Malila), malonge (Kinga), izyunzyu (Safwa), ibuto (Nyakyusa),
ndelelengu (Ndali), 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 also 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,
Agnew 2013
Left: Lobelia gibberoa in flower
163
Lopholaena dolichopappa
(Asteraceae)
Common names Popoti ndongo (Malila), liposa (Kinga)
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
164
Maerua edulis
(Capparaceae)
Common names Utupa
Photo: Petra Ballings
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, and
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 1850 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 and to quench thirst. 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. I n East Africa 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. I n
photo
Kenya the roots are boiled and mixed with broth to promote health and strength. Freshly sliced pieces
of root thrown into muddy water will make it clear. The foliage 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, Ruffo et al. 2002
165
Maesa lanceolata
(Primulaceae)
Common names I nkuti (Malila), mtelepa (Fipa), mtandu (Hehe)
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 leaf
stalk 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
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 The tree can probably 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 stomachache, jaundice and sore
throats. 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 hedge in damp places.
The bark has a sharp taste
and is used in Kenya to
Both photos: Geoff Nichols
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 Bally 1937, Williamson 1975, Kokwaro 1976, Coates Palgrave 1983, Beentje 1994, Burkill
1997, Glen & Ngwenya 2005, Lovett et al. 2006
166
Maytenus undata
(Celastraceae)
Common names I zorote, mpwagili (Malila), chongalindi (Fipa), koko tree
Description A shrub or 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 savanna areas in East and West Africa and in dry upland
forest, often associated with cedar or olive trees. I t is also 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 fruits are edible. Bees were seen 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. A drink can be made
from pounding the bark and steeping it in cold water. The plant is sometimes 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
167
Melia azedarach
(Meliaceae)
Common names Mwarubaini nusu (Swahili), Persian lilac, syringa, China berry
Tree growing in I lembo village
Description A small tree up to 10 m tall which usually sheds its leaves. Bark is grey, becoming rough
and brown. Leaflets are up to 8 cm long, shiny green, slightly toothed and having a long, pointed tip.
Flowers are produced in pale lilac clusters, each flower having a dark purple centre. Fruits are oval,
fleshy, yellow-orange when ripe, in clusters which persist on the bare tree. Each fruit contains 4 – 6
seeds.
Ecology Native of western Asia and the Himalayas. Widely planted in the tropics and sub-tropics. I t will
grow on most soils, both acidic and saline, up to 2000 m. I t is drought resistant and moderately termite
resistant.
Propagation The tree produces
large numbers of seeds which
should be stored in a cool place.
The seed can be sown in a
nursery or direct on site. Fruits
should be soaked in water until
the seed can be gently eased out
and planted within 2 weeks of
harvesting. Do not store seed in
plastic bags.
Management The tree grows
quite fast and can be pollarded,
lopped, coppiced or pruned. I t
also produces suckers. When
grown for timber remove lower
branches up to a height of 6 m.
Uses Although the tree was not in
flower bees are known to collect
both pollen and nectar from the flowers. Tea made from the leaves can be used to treat intestinal
168
worms and malaria. Fruits are known to be
very poisonous to humans, livestock and
poultry and especially to pigs. Wood is used
for firewood, charcoal and tool handles. The
bark is also used medicinally as a powerful
anthelmintic. The tree is grown for shade and
to produce building poles. I ts rapid growth
make it suitable for firewood production.
Aqueous and alcoholic extracts of leaves and
seeds are reported to control many insect,
mite and nematode pests. Aqueous extracts of
the outer pulp of the fruit are used, for
example, to control potato tuber moth (100 g
per 10 litres water). Dried leaves and twigs
are used to protect clothes, books and leather
items. Leaves are placed between mats and
supporting boards to control bed bugs in
China. I n I ndia the leaves are fed to sheep
and goats to free them from worms. The
wood resembles mahogany and makes good
construction timber durable in exposed
situations and resistant to termites. The
leaves can be used as green manure.
Unripe fruits
References De Wildeman 1903, Wild et al. 1972, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Mbuya et al. 1994, Ahmed & I dris
1997, Katende et al. 2000, Stoll 2000, Hirt & M’pia 2001, Dharani 2002
Melia azedarach in flower in D.R. Congo
169
Mikaniopsis tanganyikensis
(Asteraceae)
Common names I zeru
Description A scrambling shrub or creeper which climbs by means of twining leaf stalks. Leaves are
heart shaped. 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 (Kaj Vollesen – personal
communication)
References Fichtl & Adi 1994, Agnew 2013
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 not
lost.
170
Millettia oblata
(Fabaceae)
Common names Mhafa (Shambaa)
Description A tree, usually growing to 10 m, but may reach 30 m. Leaves alternate having 9 - 21
leaflets, rusty pubescent below, on a stalk up to 30 cm long. I nflorescence up to 35 cm long. Fruit pods
brown 10 cm long.
Millettia oblata in flower near Mufindi in October
Ecology Present in submontane and montane forests in the Eastern Arc and Lake Nyasa areas of
Tanzania and in Taita hills in south eastern Kenya.
Propagation Millettia species can be grown from seed
Uses Bees were seen collecting nectar in October. Millettia species are important honeybee forage in
southern wet savanna and northern dry savanna. The wood is heavy, hard and used for building poles,
firewood, charcoal, tool handles and pestles. The tree is used for shade and as an ornamental. I n
Sukuma (Tanzania) and Meru (Kenya) the bark is pounded and the powder put in cold water. The liquid
is strained off and drunk to relieve stomach-ache and coughing. The roots are boiled in soup which is
then taken once or twice a day to treat swellings in the body. A root decoction is drunk to treat bladder
troubles.
References Kokwaro 1976, Beentje 1994, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, Lovett et al. 2006, FZ 2007
171
Momordica foetida
(Cucurbitaceae)
Common names I nyole (Malila), nyasalasala (Hehe), 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 2400 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 is drunk for stomachache. Elsewhere in Tanzania, and also in Gabon,
Sudan and Uganda, the leaves are gathered from
the wild and eaten as a vegetable in times of
hunger. 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
172
Morella salicifolia
(Myricaceae)
Synonym Myrica salicifolia
Common names I siwiziwe (Malila), mdatsa, mwefi, ndaitsa (Hehe)
Description An evergreen shrub or
small to medium tree up to 15 m
high with a compact crown and
having large branches. Bark is thick,
corky, pale-grey and deeply fissured.
Leaves are simple, alternate, 1.5 - 17
cm long, dark green above and pale
green beneath. There are small
yellow glands on the under-surface
of the leaves and the leaves have a
spicy aromatic smell when crushed.
Male and female flowers are
separate. The small yellow flowers
are fragrant. Young twigs are
glandular and hairy. 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 peninsula. Altitude range
1600 – 3300 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. The flowers are reported to be visited by bees.
Morella species are recorded as being good bee forage in the
Sahel. The leaves are eaten by an edible caterpillar variously
called iungu, sambenze or isiwiziwe which is collected in
March (see page 218). The gut is not removed. The
caterpillar also feeds on izenya ( Agauria salicifolia) and
mshesheru (unidentified). The wood is moderately hard and
of poor quality. I t is 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
173
Morus alba
(Moraceae)
Common names Mforsadi, mfurusadi (Swahili), mulberry
Description A small fast growing
deciduous tree, up to 8 m tall. The
bark is pale-brown or pink-grey,
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 2000 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
requires 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, Najma Dharani 2002
fruit
174
Musa spp.
(Musaceae)
Common names I ndoki (Malila), banana
Ecology
Commonly
grown
around homes.
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
175
Myrianthus holstii
(Urticaceae)
Common names I twiza, iswizya (Malila), mfutsa, mkwaliti, mvalambi (Hehe), mabagala (Kinga),
mswiza, mskisya, msuisya (Nyakyusa), liwisha (Nyiha), 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 is toothed, the
upper surface being smooth and
dark green. Lower side is greygreen and hairy, with clearly
marked veins. Leaves are borne
on a hairy stalk 7 – 35 cm long.
Male and female flowers are 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.
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 2100 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
coppiced or pollarded.
can
be
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. Honeybees are
reported to visit the flowers.
References FZ 1991, Mbuya et al.
1994, White et al. 2001, Ruffo et al.
2002, Burrows & Willis 2005, Lovett et
al. 2006
176
Mystroxylon aethiopicum
(Celastraceae)
Synonym Cassine aethiopica
Common names I tobero, insambwa (Malila), mlimbolimbo (Swahili), kooboo berry
Description A very variable
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. When ripe the
fruit is a red to purplish berry
from 0.8 to 2 cm in diameter.
Ecology Found in mountain
and riverine forests between
0 and 2450 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.
Photos: Robert von Blittersdorff
www.eastafricanplants.senckenberg.de
Uses The flowers are
reported to be visited by
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 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
177
Neoboutonia macrocalyx
(Euphorbiaceae)
Common names I papama (Malila), pofwe (Fipa)
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 on the edges and in
clearings in upland forest. 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
178
Neorautanenia mitis
(Fabaceae)
Common names I hole
Description A very variable erect shrubby
herb, 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 blackish-red
seeds.
Ecology Found in grassland, bushland,
open woodland, sometimes in rocky places
with an altitude range between 1200 and
1450 m. 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. 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 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. 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 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, Agnew 2013
179
Nicandra physalodes
(Solanaceae)
Common names I fuate, ifoti (Malila), nyasongwe (Hehe), 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.
Ecology
An
introduced weed from
Peru
and
Central
America. Grows in
arable land up to an
Photo: David Watson
altitude of 2400 m.
Now present in Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe and South Africa. I t is sometimes the dominant weed in
maize.
Propagation The plant
spreads by seed.
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.
Right: Nicandra
physaloides in cropland
near Sasyaka
References
Moriarty
1975, Fichtl & Adi 1994,
Ruffo et al. 2002, Agnew 2013
180
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
181
Nuxia congesta
(Stilbaceae)
Common names I mbaza (Malila), mongwa (Fipa), mungogo (Hehe), 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 1500 to 3100 m. Present across central 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. I n East
Africa the bark or leaves
Photo: Bart Wursten
are chewed or boiled in
water and the liquid
drunk to cure indigestion. Bark is used in Uganda to treat toothache and impotence.
References Wild et al 1972, Kokwaro 1976, FZ 1983, Bekele-Tesemma et al. 1993, Fichtl & Adi 1994,
Katende et al. 1995, Hepburn & Radloff 1998, Hyde & Wursten 2002-6, Lovett et al. 2006
182
Nymphaea nouchali
(Nymphaeaceae)
Common names Maleve (Nyamwezi), lombo (Bena), lubehe (Hehe), myungiyungi (Swahili), water lily
Description A robust water plant growing from a tuberous rhizome. Leaves are from 25 – 40 cm
across and usually have wavy rather than toothed edges. The fragrant flowers are white to bright blue
or mauve with a mass of long yellow stamens and remain open all day. They are up to 20 cm across
and are borne well above the water. Ripe fruit 2 - cm in diameter.
Ecology Mostly found in water 30 – 90 cm deep, in pools, lake edges, swamps with papyrus. Altitude
range 0 – 2700 m.
Propagation Can be grown from seed.
Uses I n Tanzania the tubers are either boiled and eaten or sliced, dried in the sun, then pounded to a
flour and made into porridge.
References Cribb & Leedal 1982, Phillips & Rix 1997, Katende et al. 1999, Ruffo et al. 2002, Lebrun &
Stork 2003, Malaisse 2010
183
Ocimum gratissimum
(Lamiaceae)
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
eastern Africa and in tropical
Asia. Common in disturbed
ground in upland forest
areas, with an altitude range
of 600 – 2400 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 western 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.
plant
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, Agnew 2013
184
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. Locally common on
mountain forest edges and in
disturbed ground. Altitude range
1500 – 2700 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, Agnew 2013
185
Olinia rochetiana
(Penaeaceae)
Synonym O. usambarensis
Common names I wobe (Malila), mlandege (Hehe), mlyanku (Fipa)
Description A shrub or tree 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. Leaves have 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, red-brown when ripe, and 0.5 - 1 cm in diameter.
Ecology The tree is found in grass and bushland. I t is also found on the margins of evergreen forest,
near streams, in gallery forests and rocky outcrops. 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 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 is also planted for ornamental
purposes.
References Kokwaro 1976, FZ 1978, Fichtl & Adi 1994,
Hepburn & Radloff 1998, Katende et al. 1999, Neuwinger
2000, Burrows & Willis 2005, Lovett et al. 2006
186
Photo: Reinhard Fichtl
Oreosyce africana
(Cucurbitaceae)
Common names I nyuli
Oreosyce africana growing in a hedge at Shilanga village
Description A perennial climbing or trailing plant, producing annual stems 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, 2 – 10 cm long
and 3 – 8 cm wide. Lobes are triangular with central
lobe the largest. The leaf stalk has brown hairs and
is 2.4 – 11 cm 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 short stalks. Both sexes are on the same
plant. The green to greenish white fruit is borne on a
stalk up to 2 cm long, is roughly oval, 1.5 – 3 cm
long, 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 – 3000 m. Also present in
Uganda, Kenya, Malawi, Angola, Cameroon, eastern
D.R. Congo, Ethiopia and Madagascar.
Uses Bees were seen collecting nectar near Shilanga
village. Elsewhere in Tanzania the plant is cooked
with Justicia heterocarpa and the soup taken to
accelerate childbirth. The leaf is rubbed on areas
affected by ringworm.
References FTEA 1967, Burkill 1985, Burrows & Willis 2005, Agnew 2013
187
Osyris lanceolata
(Santalaceae)
Synonym O. quadripartita
Common names I weya (Malila), mbula (Nyakyusa), mkaisya (Fipa), lidunula, mdunula (Bena),
mdunula (Hehe), msandali (Swahili), 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.
The edges are tightly rolled under, the
short petiole runs down the stem forming a
ridge. Male and female flowers are
separate but on the same plant. Male
flowers are short and greenish in loose,
few flowered clusters. The female flowers
are usually solitary. Fruits are waxy, oval
to round berries, about 1 cm long, greenyellow 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 1500 to 2500 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.
Fruit
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
188
Parinari curatellifolia
(Chrysobalanaceae)
Common names I yula,
iwula,
ihula (Malila), msaula, msawulwa,
musaulwa (Bena), mwula (Fipa),
msaula (Hehe), mbula, umbula
(Nyakyusa), ibula, ikusu (Nyiha),
mbula, mbura (Swahili), mobola
plum
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, 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.
Ecology Grows in most areas of
Tanzania, from 0 to 2100 m in
grassland
often
persisting
in
secondary bushland and cultivated
land. The tree is also present in
Uganda, Kenya, Zimbabwe and
Parinari curatellifolia near Shilanga
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 fruit is
usually eaten fresh and has a sharp taste. 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 eaten fresh or dried, roasted and crushed
and made into a paste. 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, FAO 1988, Mbuya et al.
1994, Venter & Venter 1996, I CRAF 1998, Msanga 1998, van Wyk & Gericke 2000, Kihwele et al. 2001,
Ruffo et al. 2002
189
Passiflora edulis
(Passifloraceae)
Common names I pokhola (Malila), passion fruit
Description
A
vigorous
woody perennial vine, up to
15 m long. Tendrils arise from
the leaf axils and are spirally
coiled. Leaves 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
Brazil. I t is widely grown over
hedges, fences and on trees.
I t prefers a cool highland
climate, between altitudes of 1200 and 1500 m, where plants continue to 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 maint ains 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 but 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.
Juice extractio
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 hours of opening
the bottle.
References Purseglove 1968, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Johannesmeier & Allsopp 1995, Burkill 1997,
Nakasone & Paul 1998, Bakenga et al. 2000
190
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
– 2700 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
The
pulp
from the fruits is
eaten fresh. I t is
also
made
into
drinks
and
ice
creams.
References Purseglove 1968, Verheij & Coronel 1991,
Nakasone & Paull 1998, van Wyk 2005
191
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
1050 and 2500 m altitudes. Also present in Kenya,
Uganda and Malawi.
Propagation Pavetta species 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 Some Pavetta species 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
192
Pavonia urens
(Malvaceae)
Common names I wawa, ibaba (Malila), mwaje (Nyakyusa), mchokochole (Swahili)
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.
In
southern
Tanzania flowers are
produced from towards
the end of the rain
season, April, and into
the dry season, July
onwards.
Ecology
Common in
forest edges, secondary
forest and scrub from
600 to 2000 m altitude. Widespread in tropical Africa but most common in the drier regions.
Pavonia urens in flower near I lembo in June
Uses Bees were seen collecting nectar in the early morning. Bees are known to collect pollen and the
abundant nectar frequently 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. I n Kenya they are sometimes
used for cleaning the hands and utensils. A decoction of the root is drunk to treat abdominal disorders
in Pare, Tanzania.
References Leedal 1975, Williamson 1975, Kokwaro 1976, Cribb & Leedal 1982, Fichtl & Adi 1994,
Burkill 1997, Agnew 2013
193
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 n Tanzania it is found in
upland rainforest, from 1500 to 2200 m.
Uses Bees are reported to visit flowers
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
Left: Jelimaya Kanini lighting up a smoker at
Yalenga. Only 30 of his 60 hives had bees.
194
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 2400 m. Also present in western 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. I n Tanzania the dried
powdered leaves are rubbed into scratches made
in the skin to treat leprosy. 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 stomach-ache in Ethiopia. I n Burundi
the leaf ash is inhaled for chest pains and 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.
Photo: Hanno UK
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
195
Periploca linearifolia
(Apocynaceae)
Common names I ngururusi, ngurusa
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 1700 to 2400 m. Also
present in Kenya, Uganda, Burundi,
Malawi, Zimbabwe and Ethiopia.
Uses 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
196
Persea americana
(Lauraceae)
Common names I takapera, katapera (Malila), mparachichi, mwembe mafuta (Swahili), avocado pear
Ecology Originally from
Central America but now
grown throughout the
tropics and subtropics. I t
is fairly common in the
Southern
Highlands.
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 waterlogging. I n 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. Nectar secretion
is affected by climate and soil conditions being
abundant when humidity is high. Honey produced is dark with a strong flavour. Though not particularly
common 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 anticancerous 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, Mbuya et al. 1994, Burkill 1995,
I CRAF 1998, Bakenga et al. 2000
197
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. The plant can only
be
grown
at
altitudes
between 1950 and 2550 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 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. 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
198
Phaseolus vulgaris
(Fabaceae)
Common names I mbonzo (Malila), mharagwe (Swahili), French bean, snap bean
Description Dwarf or bush types are grown. 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 2000 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 the 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 181).
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 collect nectar from the flowers.
References Tindall 1983, Bakenga et al. 2000, Stoll 2000, Raemaekers 2001, Messiaen & Seif 2004
199
Phragmanthera usuiensis
(Loranthaceae)
Common names Ulimbo
Description
and
Ecology A robust
parasitic plant with
large leaves. Flowers
yellow to orange.
Fruits blue-green. I t
grows
on
many
cultivated
and
indigenous
trees.
This specimen was
seen on Dodonea
viscosa 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.
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 2000,
Vande
weghe
2005,
Agnew 2013
200
Physalis peruviana
(Solanaceae)
Common names I nzungu, ithungu (Malila), Cape gooseberry
Description A 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 wild on waste land, at
forest edges at altitudes
between 2000 and 2600 m. I t
thrives in full sun, is fairly
drought resistant and does not
like waterlogged conditions. I t
should not be grown in ground
previously used for tomatoes
or potatoes but can be intercropped with maize. 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 t 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,
FAO 1988, Dupriez & De Leener 1989, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Katende et al. 1995, Bakenga et al. 2000,
Raemaekers 2001
201
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
savanna and on cultivated land up to an altitude of 2000 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. The roots are used in small quantities as a purgative and as a
remedy for round- and tape-worms. 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 contain saponin, producing a good lather, 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.
Remarks The older leaves and berries are very poisonous.
References FAC 1951, Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Wild et al. 1972, Leedal 1975, Kokwaro 1976,
Blundell 1987, Ambougou 1991, Konda et al 1992, Mbemba & Remacle 1992, Bekele-Tesemma et al
1993, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Burkill 1997, Bakenga et al. 2000, Latham & Konda ku Mbuta 2014a
202
Pinus patula
(Pinaceae)
Common names 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. Bark is
grey to dark brown, papery
and 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 the
Southern Highlands. 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 1000 mm per annum for
good growth. Altitude range 1000 – 3000 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
203
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 1500 and 2750 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
Detail of flowers. Photo: H.J. Ndangalasi (Tanzania Plant
Collaboration)
204
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 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 – 1000
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
Peas
virus diseases. Some varieties are
resistant but effective control can be obtained using nicotine spray (see page 181). The crop may also
be affected by fungi if grown on wet, poorly drained soil. 2000 kg/ ha is a good yield.
Uses Mainly grown for dry seed but young shoots are also eaten. 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, Bakenga et al. 2000, Messiaen et al. 2004
205
Pittosporum viridiflorum
(Pittosporaceae)
Common names I liova (Malila), mpeeta (Hehe), mpande (Swahili), cheesewood
Description A shrub or small tree to 20
m tall. I t has a dense rounded crown.
Bark is grey and smooth, seamed
crosswise on older branches. The tree 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
206
Platostoma rotundifolium
(Lamiaceae)
Synonym Geniosporum rotundifolium, G.
paludosum
Common names I shumwa
Description
A very variable, erect
perennial herb, growing from a woody
rootstock, up to 1.3 m high. The plant
flowers at the end of the rains, from May
to July.
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 1150 – 2775 m.
Widespread in tropical Africa.
Coarse form flowering in July
Uses A very useful bee forage. Bees collect both
nectar and pollen over a long period during the dry
season. I n Rwanda 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. 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, Agnew 2013
207
Slender form flowering in May
Plectranthus defoliatus
(Lamiaceae)
Common names I vuguvugu
Description A shrub up to
2 m tall, with woody,
densely hairy branches.
Leaves are small and
circular. I nflorescence is a
long, lax panicle, several
branches being produced in
a whorl. Calyx is bell
shaped, densely covered
with short hairs, having
unequal teeth and being as
long as the tube. Corolla
1.5 cm long.
Ecology Fairly common on
forest edges and often
associated with Eucalypts.
I t grows well in semi shade
and in cool conditions.
Propagation Plants can be
grown from stem cuttings
or by division.
Uses Likely to be a bee
forage
but
probably
unimportant.
The
Washambaa use the plant
to treat diarrhoea. 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. I n Kenya the
plant
is grown
along
boundaries.
References
Lukhoba et
Agnew 2013
208
FTA
al.
1900,
2006,
Plectranthus esculentus
(Lamiacae)
Synonyms 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
appear. 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 1000 mm.
Propagation is normally by stem cuttings 10 - 20
cm long or 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. I n Umalila they are normally
planted in October.
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
209
Plectranthus scutellarioides
(Lamiaceae)
Synonym Coleus scutellarioides
Common names I shinda (Malila), Coleus
Description A perennial, aromatic herb 0.5 – 1.5 m tall. Stems are semi-succulent, and finely hairy.
Leaves are brightly coloured or blotched, variable, sometimes toothed, diamond shaped to ovate 1 – 5
cm long and 1 – 10 cm wide, on a stalk 1 – 5 cm long. I nflorescence irregularly branched, 5 – 10 x 3 –
5 cm with flowers 2 – 2.5 mm long. Corolla boat-shaped, blue or violet, tube whitish, upper lip often
paler than lower one, 0.8 – 1.3 cm long, lower lip exceeding upper; stamens in 2 pairs, united at the
base. Fruit is a nutlet, broadly ovate, 1 – 1.2 mm long, brown, shiny.
Ecology A hedgerow plant. Originally
from South East Asia and Malaysia
where it is found on stream sides,
hills, forests and open areas.
Propagation Can be grown from
seed or cuttings.
Uses I n Umalila it is used as a
medicinal plant. The leaves are
soaked in water with the pounded
leaves of Acanthus uelensis and
Physalis peruviana and the liquid is
drunk to relieve stomach ache. Also
grown as an ornamental.
References Fayaz 2011
210
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 are tubular, 2 lipped, the upper lip being 3
– 4 lobed. There are 53 species of Plectranthus in East Africa.
Plectranthus masukensis
Ecology
Commonly found growing in
grassland and on roadsides. Some species
have a very limited range. 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.
Right: 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. 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, Agnew 2013
211
Plumbago zeylanica
(Plumbaginaceae)
Common names Naluhalo (Malila), white plumbago, Ceylon 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 2000 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. The flowers are reported to be
visited by bees.
References
Watt
&
BreyerBrandwijk 1962, Wild et al. 1972,
Kokwaro 1976, Blundell 1987, Burkill
1997, van Wyk et al. 1997,
Neuwinger 2000, Agnew 2013
Photo: Colin Reid
212
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 use 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 used
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
213
Polyscias fulva
(Araliaceae)
Common
names
I mpembati
(Malila), mnyumaji, namata (Fipa),
mdeke
(Hehe),
mpembati
(Nyakyusa), parasol tree
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
very small, green-yellow, honey
scented and 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 1180 – 2500 m, with an annual rainfall of 1500 – 2000
mm.
Propagation
Most
commonly grown from wild
seedlings, though 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 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. I n Umalila the bark from small roots is pounded in water and drunk to relieve stomach-ache. 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
214
Protea gaguedii
(Proteaceae)
Synonym P. abyssinica
Common names I nsega (Malila), sugar bush
photo
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 2150 – 3350 m.
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 year’s growth.
Uses Bees are reported to visit the
flowers 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 are also present.
References Jex-Blake 1957, Wild et al. 1972, Cribb & Leedal 1982, Blundell 1987, FTEA 1993, Hepburn
& Radloff 1998
215
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 between 1000
and 2000 m. Prolonged
dormancy
may
be
a
problem in the lower
Peaches growing in farmland at I zumbwe
altitudes of this range. I t
grows well on a wide range of freely draining soils. The variety grown is also common in Malawi, and 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. Trees start to bear after 3 - 4 years and 10 – 45 kg fruit can be produced per year
from a tree. Fruit ripens in November.
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, Crane & Walker 1984, Mbuya
et al. 1994, Johannesmeier & Allsopp 1995, Burkill 1997
216
Psychotria mahonii
(Rubiaceae)
Common names Kirausiku (Malila), lipumila, mmemenang’olo (Hehe), large psychotria
Description
Usually a
small tree, with arching
branches, growing from 5
to 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, on a short stalk
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.
Uses Honeybees are
reported to visit the
flowers in October.
The timber is used for
firewood
and
tool
handles. I n Kenya a
decoction of the stems
and roots is used as a
gargle
for
sore
throats.
References Kokwaro
1976, Coates Palgrave
1983, White et al.
2001, Burrows & Willis 2005, Lovett et al. 2006
217
Pteleopsis myrtifolia
(Combretaceae)
Common names I nfita (Malila), mgoji, mlakwenzi (Swahili)
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 w ith age.
Leaves are usually opposite, rarely alternate, approximately 9.5 cm long and 3 cm wide. Flowers white
I mbrasia lucida feeding on the leaves
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 above 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. I t also grows on rocky hillsides and stony
outcrops.
Uses The leaves are eaten by an edible
caterpillar = I mbrasia lucida (iungu) which is
also reported to feed on Morella humilis
(isiwiziwe) and on Agauria salicifolia (izenya).
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. The
flowers of Pteleopsis species are visited by bees
in savanna regions.
References Wild et al 1972, Kokwaro 1976,
Coates Palgrave 1983, Hepburn & Radloff 1998,
Neuwinger 2000, Lovett et al. 2006
Photo: Geoff Nichols
218
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 1900 to
2460 m. 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. 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
219
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. One of three species found in the Southern Highlands.
Ecology Found 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, Leedal 1975, Williamson
1975, Kokwaro 1976, Blundell 1987, Peters et al. 1992, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Johannesmeier & Allsopp
1995, Neuwinger 2000, Burrows & Willis 2005, Agnew 2013
220
Rauvolfia caffra
(Apocynaceae)
Common names I siongoti (Malila), mpugupugu (Nyakyusa), muveriveri, mveriveri (Hehe), mkufi,
mwembe mwitu (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. A
water-like substance drips from the tree at certain times of the year.
Ecology Present in mountain forests but also widespread in lowland forests in eastern and southern
Africa between altitudes 500 and 2100 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 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. 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
221
Rhamnus prinoides
(Rhamnaceae)
Common names I nsanati (Malila), African dogwood
Description
A slow
growing shrub or small
tree to 10 m, though
usually 1 – 3 m high,
sometimes scrambling to
15 m. I t has slender
stems
and
drooping
branches. Bark smooth,
grey-brown, darkening
with age. The bark is
dotted
with
white
breathing pores. Leaves
alternate, up to 12 cm
long, shiny dark green
above with a finely
toothed margin. Flowers
yellowish
green
and
small, solitary or in
axillary clusters. Fruit
small berries, 8 mm
across turning blackish
purple when ripe. The
plant flowers throughout
the year in Ethiopia.
Ecology
Present
in
lightly shaded forest, or
at the edges of forest
and in fringing forest.
Also found in clumps in
grassland. Occurs mainly
in eastern Africa from
Sudan to South Africa.
Propagation
Easily
grown from seed. The
seed stores well
Photo: Robert von Blittersdorff – www.eastafricanplants.senckenberg.de
Management The tree is cultivated in Ethiopia and can be coppiced.
Uses The stems are used for making the rims of baskets. The wood is white to yellow, hard and heavy
and used for firewood. The fruit is reported to be edible. I n Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania the leaves are
used to flavour a local beer and honey wine. The plant is widely used medicinally as a laxative, a
diuretic and to prevent syphilis. Crushed leaves are used to treat fungal infections. The roots and stems
are boiled together and used to treat fever. Though flowers are produced over a long period they are
not particularly attractive to honeybees.
References Wild et al. 1972, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Burkill 1997, Neuwinger 2000, White et al. 2001,
Dlamini & Turner 2002, Burrows & Willis 2005, Kokwaro 2009
222
Rhus natalensis
(Anacardiaceae)
Common names I sanyantwa, ishesheru (Malila), msangula (Fipa), mtunumbi (Hehe), 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 round fruits are red
when ripe, 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 altitude. I t tolerates a wide variety of soils. Present throughout
Tanzania and from Guinea to Somalia and the Arabian peninsula 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, not older than 3 months.
Management Slow growing and can be coppiced.
Uses 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 savanna 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, Najma
Dharani 2002, Ruffo et al. 2002, Simons et al. 2005
223
Rhus pyroides var. pyroides
(Anacardiaceae)
Synonym R. vulgaris
Common names I shesheru (Malila), lidzadzi (Bena), muhehefu (Hehe), mkono chuma, mlama mwitu
Swahili), fire-thorned rhus
Description A variable, branched tree from 1 to 9 m high. Bark smooth brown with yellow red-brown
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 green-yellow, 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 savanna woodland often in
thickets and associated with termite mounds on hill slopes and valleys between altitudes 800 and 2700
m. Present 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 isanyantwa, 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
224
Ricinus communis
(Euphorbiaceae)
Common names I mbono, ibono (Malila), nyomba (Safwa), mono, mnyemba (Hehe & Kinga), impuria
(Sukwa), jembajemba (Nyakyusa), mbarika, mbono, nyonyo (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 The oil is rubbed on babies at birth and used to
treat wounds and constipation. I t is also used for
hairdressing. The seeds are pounded then boiled in
water and the oil is then skimmed off. 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 anti-bacterial 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
treat tooth decay. 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 during October. The extra floral nectaries on the leaves produce a large amount of
nectar. Large amounts of pollen are obtained from male flowers. An edible caterpillar, imbono, feeds on
the leaves often stripping the plant. The caterpillar is gregarious and the gut must be cleaned out
before cooking. I t is grilled until brit tle, 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 w ho eats
them.
References Purseglove 1968, Leedal 1975, Nair 1980, Crane & Walker 1984, I wu 1993, Burkill 1994,
Fichtl & Adi 1994, Mbuya et al 1994, van Wyk & Oudtshoorn 1997, Bakenga et al. 2000
225
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 sometimes found growing in hedges. I t is common in the Southern Highlands
between altitudes of 1100 and 2600 m, in forest margins, 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 is
also 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 and 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.
Photo: Dinesh Valke
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Wild et al. 1972, Kokwaro 1976, Cribb & Leedal 1982, van
Wyk & Gericke 2000, Ruffo et al. 2002, Zimudzi 2005
226
Rubus spp.
(Rosaceae)
Common names Ngondora (plant), itonongwa (fruit)(Malila), lidung’o, lumwino, mdung’o (Hehe),
utonge (Swahili), blackberry, bramble
Description Prickly scrambling bushes with hooked prickles growing up to 4 m long. A very variable
and complex group of species.
Ecology I t is sometimes
found in hedgerows. Also
found at the edges of
forest,
in
clearings,
secondary
bush,
often
forming
thickets.
The
various
species
grow
between altitudes of 1400
and 2700 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.
fruit
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
227
Rumex nepalensis
(Polygonaceae)
Common names I syamo (Malila), semwasemwa (Nyakyusa), 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 3000 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
inhaled
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 stomachache 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, Leedal
1975, Fichtl & Adi 1994, van Wyk & Gericke 2000,
Jansen 2004
Photo: David Boufford, Harvard
228
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. Each
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 promot es
salivation with a cleansing action, as with a chew stick. Elsewhere the juice 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.
229
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 seed, cuttings
or layering
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 1979,
Crane et al. 1984, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Agnew
2013
Salvia leucantha
(Lamiaceae)
Common names Mexican sage bush
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
230
Satyrium shirense
(Orchidaceae)
Common names Shigogo
Description A slender terrestrial orchid, 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 1750 – 2500 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 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 much 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
because of
over
collection.
This is
unfortunate
as they
can
easily
be
propagated.
References Williamson
Ruffo et al. 2002
1975,
FZ
1995,
231
Scadoxus puniceus
(Amaryllidaceae)
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. The petals are 3 cm long, red inside, white outside with a green ovary. The
large narrow leaves have wavy margins and appear after the flowers have died, in a cluster arising from
the bulb, which is circa 7 cm in diameter. 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 Sout h Africa.
Remarks The bulb is poisonous and has been know n 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
232
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 1550 – 2900 m.
Schefflera volkensii growing as an epiphyte near I nyala
Propagation Can be grown
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 wood is used for
firewood and charcoal. The
plant can also be grown as
a living fence. The latex
from this plant, sometimes
mixed with honey, is used
medicinally to treat colds
and coughs. The tree can
be grown for shade. 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
A Schefflera species, probably S. goetzenii, growing in forest near
and nectar. Honey is pure
I zumbwe
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.
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
233
Schoenoplectus corymbosus
(Cyperaceae)
Synonyms S. corymbosus var . brachyceras, Scirpus corymbosis
Common names Amanzila (Malila), minyii
(Hehe), milulu (Swahili), mat sedge
Description A robust tufted rush, with pithfilled stems, to 2 m tall, growing from a short
thick,
woody
rhizome.
I nflorescence
composed of clusters of spikelets on very
unequal branches. Nutlet dark brown or
blackish when mature.
Photo: Robert Archer
Ecology Often forms pure stands in marshes
and at lake edges. Found from Mali to W.
Cameroons and across to East Africa.
Uses The stems are used to make mats
though they are not long lasting. The stems
are sometimes grazed by domestic stock
especially in time of drought.
References Burkill 1985, Flora Somalia 1995,
van Wyk & Gericke 2000, Agnew 2013
Rinaga Jangi carrying amanzila stems to make mats (ishiriri)
234
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 and 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 the
Southern Highlands. The plant requires high relative humidity with between 1500 – 2000 mm rainfall at
an altitude of between 300 and 2000 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. I t 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 support ing 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 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, and the B vitamins, and also in calcium and iron. Elsewhere the
immature fruits and tuberous roots are 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
seeds are also edible and can be cooked in butter or ghee. 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 female flowers, which are
produced throughout the year, are reported to be particularly attractive to honey bees. I n East Africa
fibre is obtained from the stem.
References Grubben 1977, Tindall 1983, Crane & Walker 1984, Crane et al. 1984, FAO 1988, Dupriez
& De Leener 1989, Engels & Jeffrey 1993, Robinson & Decker-Walters 1997, SEPASAL 1999, Engels
2004
235
Selago thomsonii
(Scrophulariaceae)
Common names
Description A low tufted
multi-stemmed shrub to
50 cm tall, with ascending
branches bearing narrow
leaves up to 1 cm long
and terminal spikes of
small mauve or pale
purple
(rarely
white)
flowers.
Flowers
are
produced in June in the
Southern Highlands and
from March to July in
Malawi.
Ecology Locally common
on
dry
subalpine
heathland especially on
thin and disturbed soil.
Present
in
mountain
grasslands up to 2530 m
in Malawi, Mozambique
and Tanzania.
Uses Likely to be visited
by bees for nectar.
References
Cribb
&
Leedal 1982, FZ 1990,
Baumann 2005, Burrows
& Willis 2005, Agnew
2013
Photos: Günter Baumann
236
Senecio deltoideus
(Asteraceae)
Common names Umuwula
Description
A
scrambling perennial
herb or creeper with
zig-zag stems, 2 – 7
m long. Leaves are
triangular, 4.3 – 12
cm long and 2 – 6.5
cm
wide,
with
coarsely
toothed
margins.
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.
Photo taken in the
forest margin of
I shoho forest near
Yalenga in October.
Ecology Found in moist or dry forest or forest margins, secondary bushland in the forest zone, at
altitudes between 700 and 2200 m. The plant is a common weed. Present in Kenya, Malawi,
Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Swaziland and South Africa.
Uses The flowers are reported to be visited by bees. 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, Agnew 2013
237
Senna didymobotrya
(Fabaceae)
Synonym Cassia didymobotrya
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 2100 m, especially
beside ditches and on roadsides.
Also found in Ethiopia, Sudan,
Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, South
Africa and Mozambique.
Left: Senna didymobotrya in flower
near I lembo in October
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
238
Shirakiopsis elliptica
(Euphorbiaceae)
Synonym Sapium ellipticum
Common names I gambo
Description A shrub or tree 12 m tall but
which may grow up to 25 m. The branches
droop down. The bark is pale brown, rough
and produces a milky sap when cut.
Leaves 3 – 19 x 2 – 6.5 cm. Leaves are
alternate, with short petioles, dark green,
leathery, and widest below or about the
middle. The leaf margin has shallow
rounded teeth. Flowers are borne on a
spike 4 – 17 cm long. 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 Present in secondary forest, and
periodically flooded forests. Found from
Guinea to Ethiopia and south to the Cape.
Most common in clearings and riverine
forest and also in mountain evergreen
bushland with annual rainfall between
1200 and 2000 mm.
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.
Photo right: Bart Wursten
Uses The wood is tough but not
durable. I t is used for making
tool handles (see page 275),
domestic utensils such
as
mortars, spoons, bowls, cups
and plates. I t is also used for
charcoal and firewood. 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 bark is
used by the Washambaa to
treat general body pains and
tuberculosis. Roots are used for
chronic coughing and colds. The latex is poisonous but used to treat constipation. I n Tanzania the
Shambaa people apply a paste made from powdered dried twigs with water to wounds infested with
maggots. 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 t reat mumps. Bees collect pollen and
nectar and the flowers are very attractive to bees.
References Lovett et al. 2006, Schmelzer 2007
239
Smilax aspera
(Smilacaceae)
Synonym S. goetziana
Common names Sarsaparilla, rough bindweed
Photo: Leif & Anita Stridvall
Description A creeping shrub, with angled stems up to 12 m long. Leaves are alternate 3 – 8 by 2.5 –
5.5 cm. The cream or yellow-green flowers are fragrant in clusters along an extended rachis. Fruit is red
– purple, round, 5 – 10 mm.
Ecology Scrambles over shrubs or trees in forest or forest edges often in damp places near rivers. Also
in mountain scrub, rocky areas and along streams between 1450 – 2745 m. Present from Malawi and
Zambia to the Mediterranean region.
Propagation Can be grown from seed or by division.
Uses Young shoots can be eaten either cooked or raw. The roots are used medicinally as a purifying
and detoxifying agent, as a pain killer, to cause sweating and to encourage urination. The ripe fruits are
squeezed and applied to the skin in the treatment of scabies.
References Beentje 1994, White et al. 2001, Burrows & Willis 2005, Agnew 2013, CJB (Accessed
6.2.2015)
240
Solanecio angulatus
(Asteraceae)
Synonym Crassocepahulm bojeri
Description
A
scrambling
perennial
succulent herb, occasionally prostrate, 0.6 –
3 m long. Stems rather succulent, pale
green, often variegated with pale yellow
green and purple markings, glabrous and
slightly angular. Leaves, on a stalk to 5 cm
long, are somewhat succulent, with 2 - 5
lobes or compound, 3.7 – 22 cm long, 1 –
14 cm wide. The yellow, strongly scented,
flowers are borne in numerous terminal
stalked loose heads, the whole inflorescence
often hanging down. Fruits 3 – 3.5 mm long,
are ribbed and shortly hairy in the grooves.
Photos: Robert von Blittersdorff
www.eastafricanplants. senckenberg.de
Ecology Common in upland forest and
woodland. A weed of cultivation though
sometimes planted particularly in western
and central Africa.
Propagation S. biafrae can be grown from
seed though viability tends to be very poor.
Wild seedlings can also be planted. Semi
hard-wood cuttings can be used. Remove
leaves and tops first and plant in welldrained soil, rich in organic matter and
in shade.
Management Crassocephalum species
may be mulched or staked and the
flowers are sometimes removed to
increase production.
Uses I n D.R. Congo leaves of S.
angulatus are coarsely cut and cooked
as a vegetable for 5 - 6 minutes. Fresh
leaves of S. biafrae are also used as a
vegetable in Sierra Leone, Ghana,
Benin, Nigeria, Cameroon and Gabon.
Bees collect pollen and nectar from this
and other species of Solanecio ( S. gigas
and S. manni) and because of the long
flowering period it is probably useful for
building up the strength of colonies and
producing
honey.
Elsewhere
in
Tanzania the watery sap from crushing
the leaves is drunk to treat colds, fever
and rheumatism.
References Stevels 1990, Konda ku
Mbuta 1992, Fichtl & Adi 1994,
Schippers 2000, Adebooye 2004, FTEA
2005, Kokwaro 2009, Kibungu Kembelo
& Kibungu Kembelo 2010, Agnew 2013,
Latham & Konda ku Mbuta 2014a
241
Solanecio mannii
(Asteraceae)
Synonym Senecio manni, Crassocephalum mannii
Common names I ntwitwi, itwitwi (Malila), itwiti (Safwa), itwita (Nyakyusa)
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. Frequently planted as a
hedge and also present in Kenya
and 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.
Bees were seen collecting pollen and some
nectar. I n Umalila people push the stems
into mole runs to clear them out. The
stems are used to support fruiting
bananas. I n East Africa 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.
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, Leedal 1975,
Kokwaro 1976, Coates Palgrave 1983,
Burkill 1985, Blundell 1987, Beentje 1994,
Fichtl & Adi 1994, Hepburn & Radloff 1998,
Neuwinger 2000, Schippers 2002, Agnew
2013
242
Solanum aculeatissimum
(Solanaceae)
Common names Cockroach berry, love apple, devil’s apple, soda-apple
Description A shrubby plant up to 1.5 m tall. The stems are densely covered with straight spines 1 cm
long. Leaves, up to 18 x 16 cm, are deeply lobed and also bear slender spines up to 1.5 cm long.
Flowers are generally white. Fruits are round pale yellow to whitish, 3.5 cm diameter.
Ecology I n forest clearings and disturbed places, often associated with pine plantations. Widespread
throughout Africa.
Uses The plant contains solanine, a bitter glucoalkaloid. No local use is known in the Southern
Highlands though it is used medicinally elsewhere in
Africa to cure constipation, as a purgative, to treat
trachoma, to induce labour, for back pain, snake-bite
and male impotence. The fruits are known to be
poisonous.
References Watt & Breyer-Brandwijk 1962, Verdcourt
& Trump 1969, Blundell 1987, Burkill 2000, White et al.
2001, Burrows & Willis 2005, Nicholson 2008, Agnew
2013
Photo: Robert von Blittersdorff
www.eastafricanplants.senckenberg.de
243
Solanum scabrum
(Solanaceae)
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. 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 young 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.
Leaves contain over 4% protein and are also rich in vitamin A and are a good source of calcium and
phosphorus. 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 FAO 1988, Martin et al. 1998, Burkill 2000, Fontem & Schippers 2004
244
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 1200 – 2900 m.
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. 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 ru bbed
off. I t is important to chit seed before planting. Spread the potato seed on trays no more than 2 to 3
tubers deep, in a light place but 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 potatoes are usually 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 inuha ( Tagetes minuta)
or intwitwi ( 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
245
Solanum umalilaense
(Solanaceae)
Common names I nsungwe
Description A low growing herb. 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.
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 and
also grown by the Safwa,
Nyiha
and
Nyakyusa
people.
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 (PaysBas).
References Schippers 2004, Manoko et al. 2012
246
Solenostemon autranii
(Lamiaceae)
Synonym Coleus autranii
Description A low growing perennial shrub
up to 2 m tall. The leaves are aromatic
(mint-like), ovate, pointed, with long hairs
below and with small teeth, less than 2 mm
deep. The blue, lilac or purple, flowers are
borne in dense racemes.
Ecology A common hedge plant. Present
on the edges of montane rainforest and
inside riverine forest and swamp forest.
Altitude range 1680 – 3000 m. Found from
Kenya to Zimbabwe.
Photo left: Günter Baumann
Uses Other species (e.g. S. monostachys)
are known to be good bee forage in D.R.
Congo.
References Baumann 2005, Burrows &
Willis 2005, Agnew 2013, Latham & Konda
ku Mbuta 2014b
Sleeping or drying mat made from Schoenoplectus corymbosis
247
Sparrmannia ricinocarpa
(Malvaceae)
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 at the end
of the rain season. Fruit is
brown and covered with 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 is used for tying.
References Leedal 1975, Coates Palgrave 1983, Beentje 1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Hepburn & Radloff
1998, Agnew 2013
248
Spermacoce dibrachiata
(Rubiaceae)
Common names I kuwi (Malila), ikuwe, ilungalunga (Nyiha)
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 2250 m. I t grows in a variety of habitats from woodland to grassland and even in cultivated areas.
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 are present in
the Southern Highlands.
References Kokwaro 1976,
Cribb & Leedal 1982, Fichtl
& Adi 1994, Hepburn & Radloff 1998
249
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 usually crooked. The bark is thick
and corky. The leaves are crowded at the end of the branches, each having 5 - 9 leaflets on a stalk, 15
- 40 cm long, which is swollen at the base and clasping the stem. The white flowers are produced in
compound heads before the leaves appear.
Ecology Found in woody savanna 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 D.R. Congo and Ethiopia. Children use the hollowedout stems as pea-shooters.
References Wild et al. 1972, Coates Palgrave 1983, Keay 1989, Beentje 1994, Fichtl & Adi 1994,
Katende et al. 1995, Bakenga et al. 2000, Neuwinger 2000, van Wyk & Gericke 2000
250
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 1800 to 2500 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 are known to collect pollen and nectar
from S. abyssinica in Ethiopia.
References Blundell 1987, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Mabbereley 1997, Burrows & Willis 2005, Agnew 2013
251
Syzygium cordatum
(Myrtaceae)
Common names I fwomi (Malila), msu, musu
(Fipa), muvengi, muvengi lulenga (Hehe), umivengi
(Kinga), mpegele (Nyakyusa), mzambarau mwitu,
mkarafuu mwitu, mlati, myamayu (Swahili), waterberry 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
eastern, 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. The
tree can be coppiced.
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, Meunier et al. 2010
252
Lantana camara being grown as a hedge at Shilanga
Learning to be mum
253
Syzygium guineense subsp. huillense
(Myrtaceae)
Synonym S. huillense
Common names I wovi, iwobe (Malila), dwarf waterberry
Photo taken in October near I shoho forest
Description A bush which may grow up to 3 m tall, but is usually only 30 to 60 cm, growing from a
large rhizome, usually flowering on unbranched current year’s shoots arising directly from the rootstock.
Leaves 2 – 11 x 6 cm, very variable in shape. Flowers are often produced on new growth direct from
the rhizome. Fruit circa 3 x 2 cm, purple-black, ellipsoid or obovoid with a persistent calyx.
Ecology Grows in seasonally burned areas, on the edges of seasonally waterlogged grassland, usually
on sandy soils, often with Parinari capensis. Altitude range 900–1400 m. Present in Malawi, Zambia,
Zimbabwe, Angola and D.R. Congo.
Propagation Probably as for Syzygium cordatum.
Uses The fruits are edible. Bees are reported to visit the flowers.
References FZ 1978, Lovett
communication Roy Gereau
et
al.
2006,
Zimbabwe Flora (Accessed 15.1.2015),
254
personal
Tabernaemontana stapfiana
(Apocynaceae)
Common names I liungu (Malila), mwambe (Swahili), wild magnolia
Description A tree 5 – 25 m tall; bark pale to dark grey brown, rough, thick, corky; wood yellow or
light brown. Slash produces a white latex. Leaves 12 – 42 cm long, 3 – 17 cm wide with scattered dots
beneath. I nflorescence 10 – 28 cm long with few to many white, thick flowers, throat pale yellow,
twisted
over
the
entire length of the
tube.
Fruits
dark
green,
densely
speckled yellow or
white, 10 – 20 cm
long, 8 – 20 cm in
diameter,
rounded.
Ripe fruit splits open
to release a sticky
orange pulp around
the seeds. Seeds dark
brown, slightly like a
coffee
bean.
The
rotting fruit has an
unpleasant smell.
Ecology Present in
lowland
and
mountain forest in
eastern and central
Africa. Altitude range
1400 – 2300 m.
Propagation The tree can be grown from seed.
Uses The white, soft wood is used for firewood and knife handles. Bark, roots and seeds are used to
treat high blood pressure. The flowers are visited by honey bees. The tree makes a good shade tree. I n
eastern D.R. Congo the wood is used for building houses, for making combs, spoons and handles for
knives. The bark, seeds and
roots are used to treat high
blood pressure. The latex is
applied to wounds. A leaf
decoction is drunk to promote
increase in milk flow, though a
strong
dose
may
cause
abortion. I n Kenya a leaf
decoction is used as an
appetizer and to treat colic. A
leaf infusion is drunk for pain
in the side.
References Neuwinger 2000,
White et al. 2001, Dharani
2002, FTEA 2002, Burrows &
Wills 2005, Lemmens 2006,
Lovett et al. 2006
Photos: Günter Baumann www.eastafricanplants.senckenberg.de
255
Tagetes minuta
(Asteraceae)
Common names I nuha (Malila), fumbwafumbwa (Nyakyusa), manunsi (Safwa) , 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. Originally from
South
America.
A
troublesome weed at
altitudes from 760 to
2210 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 and 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, Leedal 1975, Blundell 1987, HDRA 1998, HDRA 2000, Stoll
2000
256
Tecoma nyassae
(Bignoniaceae)
Synonyms Tecomaria nyassae
Common names I ntwati (Malila), ntwati (Nyiha), mbojo (Nyakyusa), 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 a track
near I lembo
Ecology A shrub of forest
or grassland from Kenya to
South Africa. Sometimes
planted on field boundaries. 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, Leedal 1975, Fichtl & Adi 1994,
Johannesmeier & Allsopp 1995, Bryant 1996, Venter & Venter 1996, Mutshinyalo 2001, Dharani 2002
257
Telfairia pedata
(Cucurbitaceae)
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 monoecious plants may also 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
White flowered variety
Red flowered variety
sometimes constricted near to the fruit. Each fruit bears 80 – 170 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
around 2000 m altitude. 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
258
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. I t is best to soak seeds
in water for up to 5 days before planting.
Up to 75% germination takes pace after 3 4 weeks. 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. Plants are
normally 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
Maturing fruit at Yalenga
open cut round the edge to separate
fibrous coat then lightly tap edge or continue to cut until the two halves separate.
Uses Traditionally the kernels were the main
source of cooking oil. 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,
pickled or 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 in East Africa is used as a
medicine for stomach troubles and rheumatism.
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, FAO 1988, Mamillan 1991
259
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
260
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
selfpollinating
though
large
carpenter bees have been
reported
as
the
principal
pollinators.
Ecology The plant is native to
tropical Africa. I t is found in a
wide
variety
of
habitats
including savanna and forest
margins. I t will grow on poor
soils, but is slower growing and
more prone to disease under
these conditions. I n acid soils it
grows
much
better
than
Leucaena leucocephala, forming
root
nodules
and
fixing
atmospheric nitrogen where the
latter does not. I t will grow to
an altitude of 2100 m, preferring
a well drained soil. I t can be
planted in and around crop
fields and is well adapted to
sandy soils.
Propagation Seed should be
Dickson Mwahalende with a Tephrosia bush
stored 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 winds. I t recovers well
after burning.
Uses 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 sometim es 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. Honey bees collect pollen and nectar from plants and
contribute to pollination.
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 CRAF 1998,
Msanga 1998, Rutunga et al. 1999, Bakenga et al. 2000, Stoll 2000, I sangati 2006
261
Tetradenia tanganyikae
(Lamiaceae)
Common names I vuguvugu (Malila), ginger bush
Description A shrub or small
tree from 1.5 to 5 m high. Bark
is brown and smooth. The plant
smells of citronella. The soft
ovate leaves are up to 15 cm
long and 11 cm wide, and the
leaf margin is toothed along its
whole
length.
Leaves
are
stalked. Male and female flowers
are borne in large dense spikes
on different plants, and are
mauve, pink to white, in much
branched heads up to 20 cm
long. Flowers are produced from
May to November. The shrub
grows rapidly.
Ecology Often planted as a
hedge around compounds. I t is
found in forest, woodland and
bushland, often near water. I t
grows between altitudes of 1200
and 2000 m. 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 Use 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
References Phillipson & Steyn
2008
262
Thunbergia alata
(Acanthaceae)
Common names Nantembe, rusiki (Malila), ngelengele (Nyakyusa), kijago-gura (Swahili), 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
and have 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 2400 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, Agnew 2013
263
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.
Flowers are creamy-green
and fragrant. Fruit is a
creamy-brown
to
red,
round capsule, 1.8 to 2.5
cm across which bursts
open when mature.
Ecology
A widespread
and important tree of high
forest areas. I t prefers a
well drained rich soil and
high water table. 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. 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 then crushed in water. The
seeds can also be skinned and eaten. They
may also be soaked in water and the
contents squeezed out and ground. The
liquid produced is eaten with vegetable
leaves.
Photos: Günter Baumann
www.eastafricanplants.senckenberg.de
The leaves can be used as fodder. The flowers are reported to be visited by bees. Oil content of the
seed is 55 – 65% . The oil can be used in making soap, as a hair conditioner, to nourish and revitalize
skin and as a furniture polish. The oil is also used to treat cuts and bruises and a decoction of the root is
taken for fever and as a purgative. A bitter medicinal oil is obtained by boiling the ground seed in water
which is taken for rheumatism. The bark is used to treat pneumonia. Pieces of bark or powdered bark
are soaked in warm water and used as an enema or as an emetic for intestinal complaints. Leaf and
fruit poultices are applied to bruises, cuts and eczema. The tree produces good shade and has a nonaggressive 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
264
Tripsacum andersonii
(Poaceae)
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 ( equivalent to 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 at present but it is useful for erosion control when planted close
together along the contour.
References Bogdan 1977, Chen 1992
265
Tristemma mauritianum
(Melastomataceae)
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 to 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. The young
shoots are also edible. The
plant has a number of
medicinal uses. Bees are
reported
to
visit
the
flowers.
Photo: Bart Wursten, www.zimbabweflora.co.zw
References Burkill 1997, Katende et al. 1999, Neuwinger 2000, Konda et al. 2006, Agnew 2013
266
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 have awns. 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
1500 m in tropical Africa and is therefore
concentrated in Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania.
Wheat is grown between altitudes of 1200 and
2600 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 2400 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 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
267
Triumfetta annua
(Malvaceae)
Common names I zumba (Malila), mulenda (Swahili), burweed
Description Erect annual or short lived perennial up to 1 m tall. Leaves alt ernate, 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 2150 m and in shady places and is also a common weed of cultivation. I t 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 The leaves are edible and
contain 4.2% protein. New shoots are
produced as soon as the rain starts
and these are harvested throughout
the rain season. They are occasionally
cooked with potashes to soften them.
References Wild et al. 1972, Goode
1974, Williamson 1975, Malaisse 1997,
Schippers 2002, Schippers 2004
268
Triumfetta rhomboidea
(Malvaceae)
Common names I mbunya (Malila), mbigiri (Nyakyusa), mchokochole, mkunazi, mpuruza, mtuu
(Swahili), 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 gr assland;
altitude range up to 2280 m. A common weed of cultivation and recorded throughout tropical and
southern Africa.
Uses Stem fibres are occasionally
used for making string and have
potential as a substitute for jute.
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. 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
&
BreyerBrandwijk 1962, Wild et al 1972,
Leedal
1975,
Williamson
1975,
Kokwaro 1976,
Tredgold
1986,
Blundell 1987, Fichtl & Adi 1994, Neuwinger 2000, Kihwele et al. 2001
269
Turraea floribunda
(Meliaceae)
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 having hairs on the
veins of older leaves. Flowers white. Fruits about 2 cm in diameter.
Ecology Single trees are sometimes 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 pre-treatment. The fleshy aril surrounding
the seed must be removed before sowing.
Uses The bitter leaves are pounded and put in
water which is drunk to relieve coughing. I n
Tanzania and Malawi the bark is used as an
emetic, and the root and bark as a purgative.
These are boiled and the decoction is drunk twice
a day. Large doses are poisonous. I n South Africa
the Zulu people use the plant as an emetic, and
to treat rheumatism, dropsy and heart disease.
The leaves are not eaten by insects. The wood is
pale white and moderately hard and 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
270
Vasconcellea pubescens
(Caricaceae)
Synonym Carica pubescens
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. I t is occasionally
grown as a hedge plant. I t only grows
at altitudes over 1500 m in the tropics.
Propagation Trees are often grown
from 1 m long branches taken from
fruit bearing trees. Elsewhere the plant
is grown from seed, but these 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
indigestion.
Both
pulp and seeds are
eaten and the juice
is
useful
for
flavouring
fruit
salads.
References
JexBlake
1957,
Purseglove
1968,
Uphof
1968,
Macmillan 1991, van Balgooy 1991
Carica pubescens grown as hedge in I lembo village
271
Vernonia adoensis
(Asteraceae)
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 grows from 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. Also found in abandoned cultivation. 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 tuberculosis. 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 them to cattle sores caused by ticks.
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, Agnew 2013
272
Vernonia myriantha
(Asteraceae)
Common names I poroto, isogoyo, isahala
Description A shrub 3 - 4 m
tall, though it may reach 6
m, with stout stems. Leaves
large, up to 40 cm long and
15 cm wide, may be stalked
or sessile. 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 1600 and
2400 m in Tanzania and is a
good indicator of soil fertility.
Left:
Vernonia myriantha
growing at the forest edge.
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. 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.
Remarks There are about 25
species of Vernonia in the
Southern Highlands of Tanzania.
References FZ 1992, Beentje
1994, Mbuya et al. 1994, Agnew
2013
273
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 2000 m. 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 198).
Left: Mama Mlaga shelling maize
Management
Weed
control
is
very
important. Stalk or stem borers are a major
pest. They can be controlled by tobacco, or
Tephrosia vogelii leaf solution which is poured
down the centre funnel into the plant (see
pages 261). The powdered roots of Maerua
edulis and Neorautanenia mitis may also be
used. However care should be taken when
using the latter (see pages 165 & 179). Cut
worms, cob borer and bollworm may also be troublesome.
Uses Maize is the staple food, 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. 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
Fakorede 2006
1987,
Stoll
2000,
Badu-Apraku
274
&
Mama Sampamba
Mwakawasira making an
jembe shaft from the wood
of Shirakiopsis elliptica
(igambo).
Dickson Mwahalende with young Hagenia abyssinica (iliogoti) trees. He also has a nursery of Syzygium
cordatum (ifwomi). I ndigenous trees have a wider range of uses and are better adapted to local
conditions than many imported species.
275
Bee Forage Chart
Southern Highlands of Tanzania
Scientific name
Malila name
Abutilon longicuspe
Acacia mearnsii
Agauria salicifolia
Albizia gummifera
Albizia schimperiana
Allophylus africanus
Amphicarpaea africana
Argemone mexicana
Berkheya echinacea
Bersama abyssinica
Bidens magnifolia
Bidens pilosa
Bidens pinnatipartita
Bidens schimperi
Bidens steppia
Bothriocline longipes
Brachystephanus africanus
Brassica carinata
Brassica oleracea
Bridelia micrantha
Brillantaisia cicatricosa
Brugmansia suaveolens
Buddleja salviifolia
Caesalpina decapetala
Callistemon viminalis
Caylusea abyssinica
Chassalia discolor
Chrysophyllum gorungosanum
Cissampelos pariera
Clausena anisata
Cleome gynandra
Clerodendrum johnstonii
Cotoneaster pannosus
Crassocephalum rubens
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
Echinops giganteus
Ehretia cymosa
Nyamabumu (Hehe)
Naluyami
Izenya
(Mkenge)
Intanga
"Black false currant"
Izanji
(Mtunguja bonde)
Kakato
Iswago
Indelengu
Masikari
Intengu
Lizumba
Mputira
Insongole
Inswina
Igagara
Ilepu
Iliyisia
Inswina
Intwiti
"Sagewood"
Inyangwa
"Bottle brush"
Ukwipa
Intwati ya misengo
Ipalanyiji
Lusisia
Isyenje
Umuzima
Nanjoha
Months when bees collect pollen/nectar
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
F F F
F
R
R
F
R
F
F F
NP N
NP
NP F
R NPNP
NP
N
NP
R R NPNP
F * F
F
NP F
F
F
R
N
R R F
*
N
*
F
*
F
F
F
NP
F
F
F
N
N
F
R
F
F
F
F
F
*
F
N
*
F
F
F
*
F
F
F
F
F
F
*
*
F
F
N
F
N
F
N
F
R R
NP NP
NP R
F
F
R
F
F
Itundumusi
N
F
Inzumba
Isekeseke
Ithumba
Dabwidi
Ipwiza
Ipombo
Imbunya
Ishuwa
Izanzi
Asampya
Ifita
Izolakwale
Inzigula
Inkunya
Itanji
Ikunya
Isogwa
Iteti
F
NP
R
Scientific name
Malila name
Ekbergia capensis
Ensete ventricosum
Eriobotrya japonica
Erythrina abyssinica
Eucalyptus sp.
Faurea saligna
Flacourtia indica
Fuchsia magellanica
Galiniera 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
Helichrysum odoratissimum
Heteromorpha arborescens
Hibiscus diversifolius
Hibiscus ludwigi
Hypericum quartinianum
Hypericum revolutum
Hypoestes triflora
Ilex mitis
Impatiens gomphophylla
Indigofera hedyantha
Inula stuhlmannii
Ipomoea batatas
Ipomoea cairica
Ipomoea involucrata
Ipomoea tricolor
Ipomoea wightii
Isoglossa eliasbandae
Jasminum abyssinicum
Jasminum odoratissimum
Justicia diclipteroides
Kalanchoe densiflora
Kalanchoe lateritia
Keetia gueinzii
Knipofia princeae
Kotschya recurvifolia
Kotschya uguenensis
Landolphia buchananii
Lantana viburnoides
Leonotis myricifolia
Leonotis ocymifolia
Maesa lanceolata
Maytenus undata
Mikaniopsis tanganyikensis
Ihoho
Igawo
Insongwa
Iseve
Ilongoti
Ivunda vunda
Isugwa
Months when bees collect pollen/nectar
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
R
N
F
F
*
F
R
N
F
R
N
Iliepwa
Ikuvengwa
Penausiku
Ishumwa
Suwaji
Suwaji
Lihambako
R
F F
R
*
Inswina ilinsi
Isangati
Imbogwa
Ivizi
Isasami
Imbatata
(Kiazi pori)
Isindu
Lusisia
Lusisia
Inswina ipete
Isanzo
Impyuyu
Inswina
Itivwa
Ivata
Nyongampembe
Isusumba
Intenga
Mwerete (Hehe)
Ilonji
Isawi
Ifipa
Ifipa
Inkuti
Izorote
Izeru
R
R
R
R
R
F
R
Inzumba
Iwozya
Iliogoti
Inuha
Amabangayeye
Enzumba
Enzumba
Ilelengu
Iwawa
Iwawa
Tandankwari
R
F
R
N
F
R
F
F
F F
F
F
F
*
N
F
F
F
N
F
F
R
F
NP
F
F
NP
F
R
F
R
F
F
N
F
R
F
F
N
*
F
N
NP
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
R
F
N
N
F
*
F
R
N
*
F
F
F
F
R
NP
N
R
Scientific name
Malila name
Millettia oblata
Musa sp.
Myrianthus holstii
Myrica humilis
Mystroxylon aethiopicum
Neoboutonia macrocalyx
Neoratanenia mitis
Nicandra physaloides
Nicotiana tabacum
Nuxia congesta
Nymphaea nouchali
Ocimum gratissimum
Ocimum lamiifolium
Olinia rochetiana
Oreosyce africana
Parinari curatellifolia
Passiflora edulis
Pavetta spp.
Pavonia urens
Peddiea polyantha
Persea americana
Phaseolus coccineus
Phaseolus vulgaris
Physalis peruviana
Phytolacca dodecandra
Pittosporum viridiflorum
Platostoma rotundifolium
Plectranthus defoliatus
Plectranthus masukensis
Plectranthus punctatus
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.
Rumex nepalensis
Salvia coccinea
Salvia leucantha
Scadoxus puniceus
Schefflera volkensii
Sechium edule
Selago thomsonii
Senecio deltoideus
Shirakiopsis elliptica
Solanecio angulatus
Mhafa (Shambaa)
Indoki
Iswizya
Isiwiziwe
Itobero
Ipapama
Ihole
Ifoti
Intumba
Imbaza
(Myungiyungi)
Isongwa
Isawi
Iwobe
Inyuli
Iyula, Iwula
Ipokhola
Izenya zenya
Iwawa
Gamboruguga
Itakapera
Tandawala
Imbonzo
Inzungu
Ibozya
Iliova
Ishumwa
Ivuguvugu
Ikwitwa
Naluhalo
Baziwanga
Impembati
Insega
Mafulisi
Kirausiku
Infita
Months when bees collect pollen/nectar
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
R
R R R F
F
R
R
R
N
N
R
R
R
F
F F
F
N
F
F
NP
N
F
F
F
N
NP
N
N
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F F
F
*
F
R
R
N
N N
F
F
F
R
R
R R
R
F
R
R
F
F
R
F
Isale
Izumba
Isiongoti
Isanyandwa
Ishesheru
Imbono
Ibambula
Itonongwa
Isyamo
Ifipa
F
NP
R
R
F
N
F
F
NPNP
NP NP
F
NP F
N N
Itindi
Imogoro
Imenyi
N
R
F
F
F
Umuwula
Igambo
R
F
Scientific name
Malila name
Solanecio mannii
Solenostemon autranii
Sparrmannia ricinocarpa
Spermacoce dibrachiata
Steganotaenia araliacea
Syzygium cordatum
Syzygium guineense
Tabernaemontana stapfiana
Tecoma nyassae
Tetradenia tanganyikae
Trichilia emetica
Tristemma mauritianum
Triumfetta rhomboidea
Vernonia adoensis
Vernonia calvoana
Vernonia myriantha
Zea mays
Intwiti
Months when bees collect pollen/nectar
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
P
Insabi
Ikuwe
P
P
P
P
Ifwomi
Iwovi
F
Intwati
Ivuguvugu
Ilatushila
F
F
Imbunya
Ipasapasa
Ipekeso
Iporoto
Amangagu
R R *
*
N
R
N
N
F
F
F
F
R
N
R
R R
R
F
R
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
Aril
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.
Fleshy cup-like structure around the seed.
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.
Burr
A rough, prickly fruit formed of prickly bracts holding together.
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.
Cyanogenic
Capable of producing hydrogen cyanide, a poisonous substance.
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.
Drupe
A fleshy fruit containing a seed or seeds (e.g. a plum)
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
Many 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.
280
Goitre
Gonorrhoea
Greening
ha
Hallucinogen
Harden off
Hardy
Heel
Honey flow
Humus
Hypertension
I nsecticide
I n vitro culture
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
Swelling of the thyroid caused by lack of iodine in the food.
A sexually transmitted disease.
Tubers become green on exposure to light. Eating these can be dangerous
because of the solanin present.
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.
Propagation of new plants from plant cells taken from the parent plant.
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.
281
Stall feeding
Succulent
Sucker
Systemic insecticide
T budding
Tendril
Tiller
Trifoliate
Tubercules
Vegetative propagation
Vertical interval
Viable
Woodlots
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.
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.
282
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290
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
Track from I lembo to Shilanga
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
Yalenga village from I siolo forest
Nyasalandi Nayomo climbing to inspect one of his 13 hives
Drying wheat
Clay jar for providing water to bees
Khatanta forest near Maendeleo village
Clay jar for water
Children carting unburnt bricks in I lembo
Brick making near I lembo
Pitsawing timber near Maendeleo
Honey labels for Umalila honey
Soil erosion is a serious problem
Collecting leaves of Cleome gynandra in a garden at I lembo
Grain stores at I zumbwe
A favourite heifer
Selling Solanum umalilaense in I lembo
Older people often have considerable knowledge of plant uses
Lighting a bee smoker at Yalenga
Hills near I tebera
I mbrasia lucida feeding on Pteleopsis myrtifolia
Nkwakwa Kailoni, a traditional healer near I lembo
Sorghum growing near Yalenga
Sleeping mat made from Schoenoplectus corymbosis
Lantana camara growing as a hedge
Learning to be mum at an early age
A house in Maendeleo village
A beehive damaged by a genet
Sampamba Mwakawasira making an jembe shaft
Dickson Mwahalende with young Hagenia abyssinica seedlings
Aswile Mbagarara preparing a smoker
291
Front cover
4
6
6
7
7
8
9
9
10
10
11
12
12
14
25
38
39
41
47
50
53
69
69
81
90
118
130
132
134
140
142
144
149
150
152
154
170
194
196
218
219
229
247
253
253
260
260
275
275
Back cover
I ndex of common names
Abyssinian mustard
African buttercup
African dogwood
African holly
African mangosteen
African mint
African nightshade
African sandalwood
African spinach
African wormwood
Albino berry
Amaranth
Apple of Peru
Asthma weed
Avocado
Balsam tree
Bamboo
Banana
Bulb onion
Bear’s breeches
Beechwood
Blackberry
Black-eyed Susan
Black false currant
Black jack
Black nightshade
Black wattle
Bladder nut
Blue butterfly bush
Bottle brush
Bramble
Brittlewood
Broom cluster fig
Bulb onion
Burweed
Butterfly bush
Cabbage tree
Canna lily
Cape ash
Cape fig
Cape gooseberry
Cape holly
Cape honeysuckle
Cape mahogany
Cardinal flower
Carrot tree
Castor oil
Cat’s whiskers
Ceylon leadwort
Ceylon spinach
Chayote
Cheesewood
Cherimoya
Cherimoyer
China berry
Cinchona
Climbing canthium
Cockroach berry
Coleus
Common wild elder
Curry bush
Cypress
Devil’s apple
Dock
Dog plum
Dragon tree
Dwarf waterberry
East African sandalwood
East I ndian basil
Echinops
Elephant grass
Ethiopian kale
Ethiopian mustard
False banana
Fever plant
Fig leaf gourd
Finger millet
Fire-thorned rhus
Fish poison bean
Flame lily
French bean
Fuchsia
Gallant soldier
Garlic
Giant leaved fig
Giant St. John’s wort
Giant yellow mulberry
Ginger bush
Gloriosa lily
Governor’s plum
Green leaf desmodium
Grevillea
Guatemala grass
Hairy fleabane
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
Love apple
Lucky bean tree
Madagascar plum
Mahogany
Maize
Malabar gourd
Mat sedge
Mauritius thorn
Mexican bush sage
Mexican marigold
Mexican poppy
Mexican weeping pine
Mobola plum
Moonflower
Morning glory
Mountain pawpaw
44
220
222
141
119
130
244
188
24
29
27
24
180
105
12, 197
122
9, 10, 30, 39, 147
12, 175
20
15
111
227
263
23
37
244
14
87
66
53
227
182
113
21
268, 269
50
80
55
97
113
201
141
257
264
163
250
225
65
212
31
235
206
26
26
168
61
155
239
210
182
139
7, 79
292
243
228
87
94
254
188
184
95
57
44
44
102
184
77
4, 64, 99, 157
224
261
121
199
116
118
22
112
139
176
262
121
115
85
125
144, 152, 265
105
226
115
24, 31
45
256
118
167
177
85
217
45
209
20
106
243
107
115
104
12, 199, 274
77
234
52
230
256
28
203
189
49
148
271
Mulberry
Multiflora bean
Mysore thorn
Napier grass
Northern forest Garcinia
Onion
Orange-eye
Oyster nut
Parasol tree
Parsley tree
Parsnip tree
Passion fruit
Patula pine
Pea
Peach
Peanut cassia
Persian lilac
Peruvian bark
Pine
Popcorn senna
Pop-gun tree
Potato
Prickly leaved elephant’s foot
Prickly poppy
Pride of Manicaland
Pumpkin
Pyrethrum
Quinine tree
Railway creeper
Rattlepod
Red beech
Red hot poker
Red hot poker tree
Red paintbrush
Rough bindweed
Royal paintbrush
Rubber vine
Runner bean
Sagewood
Saligna gum
Sand olive
Sarsaparilla
Scarlet runner bean
Scrambled eggs
Shallot
Shock-headed Peter
Silk oak
Silver-leaf Cotoneaster
Silver oak
Sisal
Smooth fruited Clutia
Snap bean
Soda apple
Sorghum
Sorrel
Spider plant
Straw flower
Sugar bush
Sugar cane
Summer lilac
Sunflower
Sweet granadilla
Sweet passion fruit
Sweet potato
Sydney blue gum
Syringa
Taro
Tea bush
Tobacco
Tomatillo
Tree basil
Tree fuchsia
Tree tomato
Umbrella tree
Vegetable pear
Vine spinach
Water-berry
Water boom
Water lily
Weeping bottlebrush
Wheat
White angel’s trumpet
White plumbago
Wild calabash
Wild coffee
Wild honeysuckle tree
Wild magnolia
Wild pear
Wild potato
Wild wormwood
Winged bersama
Winter squash
Zanzibar oil vine
174
198
52
57, 144, 152
119
21
50
254
214
135
135
190
203
205
12, 216
238
168
61
203
238
246
245
98
28
213
78
59
61, 221
146
76
111
156
107
232
236
232
160
198
51
108
89
236
198
209
21
64
125
72
125
12, 18
67
199
239
229
228
65
132
215
229
50
12, 131
191
191
145
293
108
168
71
184
181
82
184
129
82
80
235
31
248
248
183
53
263
49
212
159
70
266
251
91
209
29
34
78
254
I ndex of vernacular names (Names without
the language in brackets are Malila names)
Amabangayeye
Amangagu
Amanzila
Amasimbi
Amaua
Asampya
Baziwanga
Bulenge (Nyakyusa)
Bumburankwale
Chongalindi (Fipa)
Chuma
Dabwidi
Esebe
Enzumba
Fumbwafumbwa (Nyakyusa)
Fundofundo
Gamboruguga
Homba
I baba
I bambula
I bono
I bozya
I bula (Nyiha)
I buto (Nyakyusa)
I dudwi
I fipa
I fita
I foti
I fuate
I fwomi
I gagara
I galilonji (Nyiha)
I gambo
I gawo
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 kusu (Nyiha)
I kuwe (Nyiha)
I kuwi
I kwitwa
I langali
I lansi
I latushila
I lelengu
I lepo
I liepwa
I liogoti
I liova
I liungu
I lomba
I longoti
I lonji
I lumbati
ilungalunga (Nyiha)
I lyilu
I lysia
I mbatata
I mbaza
I mbidio
I mbogwa
I mbono
I mbonzo
I mbotila (Safwa)
I mbunya
I menyi
I mogoro
I momona (Kinga)
I mpembati
I mbunya
I mpuria (Sukwa)
I mpyuyu
I ndelengu
I ndoki
I ndola
I ndolo
I nfita
I nfwonfwo (Nyiha)
I ngaya
I ngururusi
I ngwayuzi
I nuha
I nkunya
I nkuti
I nono
I nsabi
I nsambwa
I nsanati
I nsega
I nsongole
I nsongwa
I nsungwe
I nsungwe kali
I nswina
I nswina ilinsi
I nswina ipete
I ntafwanya
I ntanga
I ntenga
I ntengu
I ntumba
I ntwati
I ntwati ya misengo
I ntwitwi
I nuha
I nuka
I numbu
I nyaga (Safwa)
I nyangwa
I nyole
I nyongabembe (Nyakyusa)
I nyule
I nyunyu (Kinga)
131
274
81, 234
71
59
86
213
88
88
167
74
77
107
73, 74, 132, 133
256
54
194
8
193
226
225
202
189
163
163
12, 162, 230
87
180
180
12, 252, 275
12, 44
100
239, 275
10, 102
15
104
267
96
179
189
37
18
235
92
118
144
189
249
64, 249
211
8, 12, 110
30
264
135
45
117
8, 12, 128, 275
206
78, 255
195
108
294
160
29
249
270
46
145
182
103
142
225
199
39
37, 81, 269
235
12, 233
88
8, 12, 214
81
225
151
35
175
112
112
218
162
55
196
248
238, 245
90
166
26
248
177
222
17, 215
42
106
246
244
43, 48, 152
140
50, 149
245
20
12, 157
37, 38
181
257
58
12, 49, 242, 245
130, 238, 256
130
208
29
12, 51
172
153
187
162
I nzembwa
I nzenya
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 sahala
I salakwale
I sale
I sangati
I sanyantwa
I sanyungu (Ndali)
I sanzo
I sasami
I sawi
I seve
I sekeseke
I shesheru
I shinda
I shiomwe
I shiriri
I shirungu
I shitundu
I shitunguru
I shumwa
I shuwa
I sindu
I sintu
I siongoti
I siwiziwe
I sogoyo
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 thungu
I tifya (Ndali)
I tindi
I tivwa
I tobero
I tonongwa
24
29
12, 89
15
126
201
229
60
82
178
272
27
9, 104
190
80
273
78
110
273
266
57, 219, 265
12, 141
223, 224
89
150
144
161, 185
12, 107
75
101, 173, 223
210
184
81
120
30
21
207
83
147
8
221
173, 218
273
93
184
115
156
122
34
176
205
228
63
197
258
12, 91
12, 94
76
201
153
121, 232
153
177
227
I tundumusi
I tungururu
I twita (Nyakyusa)
I twiti (Safwa)
I twitwi
I twiza
I ungu
I vata
I vizi
I vuguvugu
I vum
I vumbu
I wawa
I weya
I welesi (Hehe)
I wobe
I woti
I wovi
I wozya
I wula
I yula
I zanji
I zenya
I zenya zenya
I zeru
I zolokwale
I zonywa (Safwa)
I zorote
I zumba
I zyunzyu (Safwa)
Jembajemba (Nyakyusa)
Kahawa-msitu
Kakato
Kambitanga (Nyakyusa)
Kapunika
Katapera
Katikisa (Fipa)
Kawiru
Kibobonge (Hehe)
Kihere (Kinga)
Kirausiku
Kisongwe (Kinga)
Kitwana (Nyakyusa)
Kowenga
Kukuliko (Nyiha)
Lenyeshe (Safwa)
Lidung’o (Hehe)
Lidunula (Bena)
Lidzadzi (Bena)
Lihambako
Likalati (Wanda)
Likufwa, luhahi (Hehe)
Lilimbili (Hehe)
Limpombo (Wanji)
Limunsi (Safwa)
Linyominyomi (Bena)
Liposa (Kinga)
Lipumila (Hehe)
Lisanzauki (Hehe)
Lisyamo
Litanji (Nyiha)
Litenga (Kinga)
Litonga (Hehe)
Livanivani (Hehe)
295
95
159
242
242
241
176
173, 218
154
143
208, 262
114
208
136, 137, 193
188
157
186, 254
12, 163
151, 254
32, 127
189
189
25, 85
17, 218
192
170
88
88
167
220, 268
163
225
70
33
89
118
197
80
77
88
107
217
119
88
220
121
54
227
188
227
124
17
89
102
80
66
162
164
217
162
100
91
88
87
37
Liwisha (Nyiha)
Liwungowungo (Hehe)
Lizumba
Lufunye (Nyakyusa)
Luhahi (Hehe)
Lukalifya (Bena & Hehe)
Lumwino (Hehe)
Lunyaga (Kinga)
Lurulamono (Kinga)
Lusisia
Mabagala (Kinga)
Mabangala (Nyakyusa)
Madihani (Kinga)
Mafulisi
Mafundo
Mhang’ana (Hehe)
Makalichoma (Hehe)
Malembelembe (Nyiha)
Maleve (Nyamwezi)
Malonge (Kinga)
Manunsi (Safwa)
Manyambimbwi (Kinga)
Masikari
Matenga (Bena & Kinga)
Mbasamono (Hehe)
Mbigiri (Nyakyusa)
Mbojo (Nyakyusa)
Mbokaboka (Kinga)
Mbula (Nyakyusa)
Mdatsa (Hehe)
Mdeke (Hehe)
Mditsi (Hehe)
Mdobole (Hehe)
Mdung’o (Hehe)
Mdunula (Bena & Hehe)
Mdzombe (Bena)
Mfilafila (Hehe)
Mfoono (Bena)
Mfutsa (Hehe)
Mgema (Hehe)
Mgola (Hehe)
Mng’ongo (Fipa)
Mhafa (Shambaa)
Mhenyi (Hehe)
Minyii (Hehe)
Mituruka (Nyakyusa)
Mkaisya (Fipa)
Mkalifya (Bena & Hehe)
Mkangatowo (Hehe)
Mkangalanyabu (Hehe)
Mkolongo (Hehe)
Mkolwe (Fipa)
Mkomolo (Fipa)
Mkuka (Hehe)
Mkumburu (Nyiha)
Mkwaliti (Hehe)
Mlati (Hehe)
Mmafimafi (Hehe)
Mmemenang’olo (Hehe)
Mnyamati (Hehe)
Mnyatoma (Hehe)
Mnyemba (Hehe & Kinga)
Mnyonzi (Hehe)
Mnyumaji Fipa)
Mongwa (Fipa)
Mono (Hehe & Kinga)
Morwe (Lambya)
Mpacha (Hehe)
Mpalang’anga (Hehe)
Mpambaduma (Hehe)
Mpangala (Kinga)
Mpangwe (Nyiha)
Mpeeta (Hehe)
Mpegele (Nyakyusa)
Mpembati (Nyakyusa)
Mpeme (Hehe)
Mpombo (Nyakyusa)
Mpomo (Hehe)
Mpugupugu (Nyakyusa)
Mpukuso
Mputira
Mpwagili
Msangula (Fipa)
Msanguti (Nyakyusa)
Msaula (Bena)
Msawulwa (Bena)
Msega (Fipa)
Mshesheru
Msilasila (Hehe)
Msisina (Hehe)
Mskisya (Nyakyusa)
Msombe (Hehe)
Msu (Fipa)
Msuisya (Nyakyusa)
Mswiza (Nyakyusa)
Mtandu (Hehe)
Mtanga (Hehe)
Mtelepa (Fipa)
Mtiti (Fipa)
Mtonga (Hehe)
Mtsombe (Hehe)
Mtulenya (Nyakyusa)
Mtunumbi (Hehe)
Mturunga (Nyakyusa, Nyiha)
Muhehefu (Hehe)
Muhemi (Hehe)
Mulembo
Mungogo (Hehe)
Musaulwa (Bena)
Musu (Fipa)
Mutsombe (Hehe)
Muvengi (Hehe)
Muvengi lulenga (Hehe)
Muveriveri (Hehe)
Muvulamono (Kinga)
Mvalambi (Hehe)
Mveriveri (Hehe)
Mwaje (Nyakyusa)
Mwanga (Fipa)
Mwefi (Hehe)
Mwemba (Hehe)
Mwerete (Hehe)
Mwisya (Nyakyusa)
Mwovu (Fipa)
Mwula (Fipa)
Mynyonzolo (Hehe)
Nakafundo (Fipa)
Naluhalo
176
160
37, 39
157
89
56
227
29
97
62, 148
176
102
89
216
204
136
64
19
183
163
256
84
37
157
34
269
257
153
188
173
214
93
128
227
188
113
119
128
176
17
92, 115
96
171
111
234
88
188
56
91
95
17
121
17
129
128
176
91
117
217
96
34
225
80
214
296
182
225
17
70
46
66
91
39
206
252
214
34
80
27
221
119
12, 40
167
223
264
189
189
111
173
119
87
176
113
252
176
176
166
19
166
107
87
112
128
223
128
224
107
83
182
189
252
113
252
252
221
96
176
221
193
115
173
111
158
46
104
189
80
162
212
Naluyami
Namata (Fipa)
Namjok
Nangawo
Nanjoha
Nantembe
Ndaitsa (Hehe)
Ndelelengu (Ndali)
Ndenga (Ndali)
Ngelengele (Nyakyusa)
Ngerengere (Nyakyusa)
Ngondora
Ngurusa
Nmwesa (Hehe)
Nsenye (Nyakyusa)
Ntenga (Malila & Nyakyusa)
Ntonongwe (Nyiha)
Nturunga (Nyakyusa)
Ntwati (Nyiha)
Nyamabumu (Hehe)
Nyasalasala (Hehe)
Nyasongwe (Hehe)
Nyatwanga (Hehe)
Nyikata (Nyakyusa)
Nyomba (Safwa)
Nyongampembe
Nzumbankwale
Paranieji (Nyakyusa)
Penausiku
Piriti
Pofwe (Fipa)
Pofwe-honsi (Fipa)
Popoti ndongo
Rusiki
Sambenzi
Semwasemwa (Nyakyusa)
Sengamino (Nyiha)
Sense (Nyiha)
Shigogo
Shilungu
Shumwe
Suwaji
Tandankwari
Tandawala
Tandawuzi
Tanji (Nyiha)
Tindi (Nyiha)
Tochi (Fipa)
Ukurugwa
Ukwipa
Ulimbo
Umbula (Nyakyusa)
Umivengi (Kinga)
Umupapa
Umuwula
Umuzimu
Unku (Fipa)
Utupa
Uwutupwa
Uwulezi
Vitosambili (Hehe)
Vunda vunda
Zenya (Sangu)
14
214
54
16
66
263
173
163
157
263
74
227
196
46
17
157
66
128
257
13
172
180
39
88
225
155, 250
88
60
119
163
177
141
164
263
173
228
45
111
231
120
64
122, 123
138
198
68
91
156
102
136
56
200
189
252
204
236
12, 65
113
165, 261
144
99
121
111
17
297
I ndex of Sw ahili names
Alizeti
Figile
Kahawa mwitu
Kiazi cha kizungu
Kiazi pori
Kibazi
Kifundo
Kijago-gura
Kitunguu
Kitungu sumu
Kolese
Kumbi kumbi
Magimbi
Mahindi
Marejea
Matope tope
Mbege
Mbiha
Mboga ya kimaasai
Mboga ya mboga
Mbono
Mbula
Mbungo
Mbura
Mchicha
Mchokochole
Mchongoma
Mforsadi
Mfurusadi
Mgagani
Mgo
Mgogwe
Mgoji
Mgovigovi
Mharagwe
Milulu
Mkaa pwani
Mkambo kambo
Mkarafuu mwitu
Mkarati
Mkaratusi
Mkenge
Mkingili
Mkonge
Mkono chuma
Mkufi
Mkuju
Mkumba
Mkunazi
Mkungwina
Mkuyu
Mkweme
Mlagalaga
Mlakwenzi
Mlama mwitu
Mlangilangi mwitu
Mlati
Mlimbolimbo
Mnavu
Mnukia muuma
Mpande
Mpapai
131
44
70
245
146
261
226
263
21
22
43
181
71
274
76
26
99
13
77
77
225
189
160
189
24
193, 269
115
174
174
65
115
82
218
115
199
234
89
79
252
46
108
19
115
18
223, 224
221
113
223
269
264
112, 113
258
62
218
224
270
252
177
244
172
206
271
Mparachichi
Mpuruza
Mpekesho
Mrumbapori
Msafari
Msamaka
Msambarau
Msandali
Mshindamaji
Msindano
Mtamagoa
Mtango
Mtarakwa
Mtimai
Mtimaji
Mtimbao
Mtomoko
Mtunguja bonde
Mtupa
Mtutu
Mtuu
Mulenda
Muwa
Muwati
Mwamba ngoma
Mwambe
Mwana funzi
Mwangani
Mwangwakwao
Mwarubaini nusu
Mwembe mafuta
Mwembe mwitu
Mwimbi
Myamayu
Myungiyungi
Myunguvu
Mzambarau mwitu
Nderema
Njegere
Ndizi mwitu
Ngano
Njegere
Nyonyo
Rungu
Sukuma wiki
Tumbako
Ukakaka
Ulezi
Utonge
Viazi maji
298
197
269
119
114
121
94
252
188
94
203
270
78
79
264
264
108
26
28
261
46
269
268
229
14
107
255
121
65
34
168
197
221
99
252
183
17
252
31
205
102
267
205
225
89
45
181
226
99
227
208
I ndex of Scientific names
Cissampelos pariera
62
Clausena anisata
63
Clematis kirkii
64
Clematis villosa subsp. villosa
64
Clematopsis scabiosifolia
64
Clematopsis villosa
64
Cleome gynandra
12, 44, 65 , 149
Clerodendrum johnstonii
66
Clutia abyssinica
67
Coccinea grandiflora
68
Coffea mufindiensis
70
Coleus autranii
247
Coleus esculentus
208
Coleus scutellarioides
210
Coleus sp.
15
Colocasia esculenta
71
Conyza bonariensis
10, 104
Corchorus olitorius
65, 99
Corchorus tridens
65
Cotoneaster pannosus
72
Crassocephalum bojeri
241
Crassocephalum mannii
242
Crassocephalum rubens
73
Crassocephalum vitellinum
74
Crassocephalum sp.
73
Crotalaria cleomifolia
75
Crotalaria natalitia
76
Crotalaria subcapitata
76
Cucurbita ficifolia
77
Cucurbita maxima
78
Cupressus lusitanica
8, 79
Cussonia spicata
80
Cyathula uncinulata
81
Cyphomandra betacea
82
Dalbergia lactea
83
Dalbergia nitidula
83
Delphinium leroyi
84
Desmodium intortum
57, 85
Desmodium repandum
86
Desmodium uncinatum
85
Diospyros whyteana
87
Dissotis melleri
88
Dissotis sp.
88
Dissotis whytei
88
Dodonaea viscosa
12, 89 , 200
Dodonaea angustifolia
89
Dombeya burgessiae
90
Dombeya goetzenii
92
Dombeya rotundifolia
12, 91
Dombeya torrida
92
Dovyalis abyssinica
93
Dracaena steudneri
12, 94
Duhaldea stuhlmannii
144
Echinops giganteus
95
Ehretia cymosa
96
Ekebergia capensis
97
Elephantopus scaber subsp. plurisetus
98
Eleusine coracana
99
Embelia schimperi
100
Englerina inaequilatera
101
Ensete edule
102
Ensete ventricosum
10, 102
Abutilon longicuspe
13
Acacia mearnsii
14
Acanthus ueleensis
15 , 210
Aframomum zambesiacum
16
Agarista x salicifolia
17
Agauria salicifolia
17 , 173, 218
Agave fourcroydes
18
Agave sisalana
18
Albizia gummifera
19
Albizia schimperiana
20
Allium ascalonium
21
Allium cepa
21
Allium sativum
22
Allophylus africanus
23
Amaranthus cruentus
24
Amaranthus hybridus subsp. cruentus
24
Amphicarpaea africana
25
Annona cherimola
26
Aphloia myrtifolia
27
Aphloia theiformis
27
Argemone mexicana
28
Artemisia afra
29
Bambusa vulgaris
30
Basella alba
31
Begonia sutherlandii
32
Berkheya echinacea subsp. polyacantha
33
Bersama abyssinica subsp. abyssinica
34
Bidens magnifolia
36 , 37
Bidens pilosa
37 , 159
Bidens pinnatipartita
37, 38
Bidens schimperi
37, 39
Bidens steppia
12, 37, 40
Blepharis grandis
41
Bothriocline eupatorioides
42
Bothriocline longipes
42
Brachystephanus africanus
43
Brassica carinata
12, 44
Brassica integrifolia var carinata
44
Brassica oleracea
44, 45, 156, 259
Bridelia micrantha
46
Brillantaisia ulugurica
48
Brillantaisia cicatricosa
48
Brugmansia sp.
12, 49
Brugmansia suaveolens
49
Buddleja davidii
50
Buddleja salviifolia
51
Buddleja variabilis
50
Caesalpinia decapetala
12, 52
Callistemon viminalis
53
Canarina eminii
54
Canna hybrida
55
Carica pubescens
271
Cassia didymobotrya
238
Cassine aethiopica
177
Caylusea abyssinica
56
Celosia sp.
24
Cenchrus purpureus
57
Chasalia discolor
58
Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium
59
Chrysophyllum fulvum
60
Chrysophyllum gorungosanum
60
Cinchona sp.
61
299
Entandophragma excelsum
104
Erigeron bonariensis
105
Eriobotrya japonica
106
Erythrina abyssinica
12, 107
Eucalyptus grandis
108
Eucalyptus saligna
108
Eucalyptus sp.
12, 108
Eulophia streptopetala
2, 109
Euphorbia abyssinica
110
Euphorbia candelabrum
110
Euphorbia nyikae
8, 12, 110
Faurea saligna
111
Ficus capensis
113
Ficus lutea
112
Ficus sur
113
Ficus thonningii
114
Flacourtia indica
115
Fuchsia magellanica
116
Galiniera saxifraga
117
Galinsoga parviflora
118
Garcinia kingaensis
119
Geniosporum rotundifolium
207
Geniosporum paludosum
207
Gladiolus dalenii
120
Gloriosa superba
121
Gnidia glauca
122
Gnidia involucrata
122, 123
Gouania longispicata
124
Grevillea robusta
125
Guizotia scabra
126
Gynandropsis gynandra
64
Gynura scandens
127
Hagenia abyssinica
8, 12, 128 , 273
Halleria lucida
129
Haumaniastrum venosum
130
Helianthus annuus
131
Helichrysum foetidum
132
Helichrysum odoratissimum
133
Helichrysum schimperi
134
Heteromorpha abyssinica
135
Heteromorpha arborescens var. abyssinicus
135
Hibiscus cannabinus
136
Hibiscus diversifolius
136
Hibiscus ludwigii
137
Hypericum quartinianum
138
Hypericum revolutum
139
Hypericum revolutum subsp. revolutum
139
Hypoestes triflora
140
I lex mitis
12, 141
I mpatiens gomphophylla
142
I ndigofera atriceps
143
I ndigofera goetzei
143
I ndigofera hedyantha
143
I nula stuhlmannii
144
I pomoea batatas
145
I pomoea cairica
146
I pomoea involucrata
8, 147
I pomoea tricolor
148
I pomoea wightii
147
I soglossa eliasbandae
149
Jasminum abyssinicum
150
Jasminum odoratissimum subsp. goetzeanum
151
Justicia diclipteroides
152
Kalanchoe densiflora
153
Kalanchoe lateritia
Keetia guenzii
Kniphofia princeae
Kotschya recurvifolia
Kotschya uguenensis
Lagenaria sphaerica
Landolphia buchananii
Lantana camara
Lantana viburnoides
Leonotis myricifolia
Leonotis ocymifolia
Lobelia gibberoa
Lopholaena dolichopappa
Luffa sphaerica
Maerua edulis
Maesa lanceolata
Maytenus undata
Melia azedarach
Mikaniopsis tanganyikensis
Millettia oblate
Momordica foetida
Morella salicifolia
Morus alba
Musa spp.
Myrianthus arboreus
Myrianthus holstii
Myrica salicifolia
Mystroxylon aethiopicum
Neoboutonia macrocalyx
Neorautanenia mitis
Nicandra physaloides
Nicotiana tabacum
Nuxia congesta
Nymphaea nouchali
Ocimum basilicum
Ocimum gratissimum
Ocimum lamiifolium
Olea sp.
Olinia rochetiana
Olinia usambarensis
Oreosyce africana
Osyris lanceolata
Osyris quadripartita
Parinari curatellifolia
Passiflora edulis
Passiflora ligularis
Pavetta abyssinica
Pavetta spp.
Pavonia urens
Peddiea polyantha
Pennisetum purpureum
Peponium vogelii
Periploca linearifolia
Persea americana
Phaseolus coccineus
Phaseolus multiflorus
Phaseolus vulgaris
Phragmanthera usuiensis
Physalis peruviana
Phytolacca dodecandra
Pinus patula
Piper capense
Pisum sativum
Pittosporum viridiflorum
300
154
155
156
12, 99, 157
158
159
160
253
161
162
162
12, 163
164
159
167, 274
166
167
168
170
171
172
173 , 218
174
175
176
176
173
177
178
179 , 275
180
181
182
183
23
184
185
108
186
186
187
188
188
189
190
191
192
192
193
194
56
195
196
197
198
198
199
200
15, 201
202
203
204
205
206
Platostoma rotundifolium
207
Plectranthus caninus
211
Plectranthus defoliatus
208
Plectranthus esculentus
209
Plectranthus masukensis
211
Plectranthus punctatus
211
Plectranthus scutellarioides
210
Plumbago zeylanica
212
Polygala virgata
213
Polyscias fulva
8, 12, 214
Protea abyssinica
215
Protea gaguedii
215
Protea heckmanniana
215
Protea welwitschii
215
Prunus persica
216
Psychotria mahonii
217
Pteleopsis myrtifolia
218
Pycnostachys orthodonta
219
Pycnostachys ruandensis
219
Pyrethrum cinerariifolium
58
Ranunculus multifidus
220
Rauvolfia caffra
221
Reseda abyssinica
55
Rhamnus prinoides
222
Rhus natalensis
223
Rhus pyroides var. pyroides
224
Rhus vulgaris
224
Ricinus communis
225
Rubia cordifolia
226
Rubus adolfi—friedericii
227
Rubus apetalus
227
Rubus ellipticus
227
Rubus inganus
227
Rubus niveus
227
Rubus pinnatus
227
Rubus porotoensis
227
Rubus rigidus
227
Rubus schefflleri
227
Rubus spp.
227
Rubus steudneri
227
Rubus volkensii
227
Rumex nepalensis
228
Saccharum officinarum
229
Salvia coccinea
12, 230
Salvia leucantha
230
Sapium ellipticum
239
Satyrium macrophyllum
231
Satyrium neglectum var. neglectum
231
Satyrium shirense
231
Satyrium sphaeranthum
83
Scadoxus puniceus
232
Schefflera goetzenii
233
Schefflera sp.
12
Schefflera volkensii
233
Schoenoplectus corymbosis
234
Schoenoplectus corymbosus var . brachyceras
234
Scirpus corymbosis
234
Sechium edule
235
Selago thomsonii
236
Senecio deltoideus
237
Senecio manni
242
Senna didymobotrya
238
Senna petersiana
82
Shirakiopsis elliptica
239 , 275
Shuteria africana
Smilax aspera
Smilax goetziana
Solanecio angulatus
Solanecio mannii
Solanum aeculeatissimum
Solanum scabrum
Solanum nigrum
Solanum tuberosum
Solanum umalilaense
Solenostemon autranii
Sparrmannia ricinocarpa
Spermacoce dibrachiata
Steganotaenia araliacea
Stylosanthes guianensis
Swertia usambarensis
Syzygium cordatum
Syzygium guineense subsp. huillense
Tabernaemontana stapfiana
Tagetes minuta
Tecoma nyassae
Tecomaria nyassae
Telfairia pedata
Tephrosia vogelii
Tetradenia tanganyikae
Thunbergia alata
Tricilia emetica
Tripsacum andersonii
Tristemma mauritianum
Triticum aestivum
Triticum vulgare
Triumfetta annua
Triumfetta rhomboidea
Turraea floribunda
Vasconcellea cundinamarcensis
Vernonia adoensis
Vernonia myriantha
Vigna unguiculata
Zea mays
* Numbers in bold are for main entries
# Names in italics are for synonyms
301
25
240
240
241
12, 242 , 240
243
244
39, 64
245
156, 244, 246
247
248
249
250
84
251
12, 252 , 275
254
255
245, 256
257
257
258
261 , 274
262
263
264
265
266
267
267
268
269
270
271
272
273
259
274
Bees are important both for the
production of honey and wax and
particularly for their role in the pollination
of plants, including some economic
crops. Bees have been shown to increase
the yields of sunflower, passion fruit,
peaches, pumpkins and runner beans.
This book provides information on 258
plants in Umalila, Mbeya district. A
forage chart indicates the months when
bees collect pollen and/ or nectar. Plants
are listed alphabetically, and in addition
to photographs, details of their botanical,
vernacular and common names are given
together with brief descriptions. The
distribution, uses and propagation and
management of selected plants is also
provided where appropriate.
About the author
A beekeeper prepares a smoker prior to inspecting his
hives at Shilanga in Umalila.
Paul Latham is a retired Salvation Army
officer, who has worked in Africa for over
20 years, much of the time spent on
farmer training in Kenya. On retirement
he has made a number of visits to
Umalila in Mbeya district where he
photographed and recorded the various
uses of plants, with particular emphasis
on those visited by honeybees. He has
also been involved in the development of
beekeeping in Bas-Congo province in the
Democratic Republic of the Congo. He
and his wife now live in Scotland.