African Cherry (Prunus Africana)

Prunus Africana, commonly known as African cherry (Agbalumo), is a medium to large evergreen tree found across montane forest regions of Africa. It can grow to 24m in height and has a blackish-brown bark. The species requires high light conditions and has a moderate growth rate. The species is planted as ornamental trees and is harvested for firewood, heavy construction, furniture, flooring, and other uses for its heavy and durable wood.

The main conservation concern for this species, however, is the harvesting of its bark, which is used in African and European medicine. 

Prunus africana, commonly known as the African cherry, is a tree from the mountain areas of tropical Africa and Madagascar. It is harvested for its bark, which has medicinal properties, and timber.

The calcium lends strength to your bones and teeth, and it may also lessen symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, such as cramping and abdominal bloating. This fruit also contains 5 percent of the daily recommended value per serving of vitamin C and vitamin A.

The African star apple, locally called cherry, is in full bloom. You can see the fruits on sales along the highways and roadsides all over the country, especially in the southern part of Nigeria. Pygeum africanum Hook. f. Prunus africana, the African cherry, has a wide distribution in Africa, occurring in montane regions of central and southern Africa and on the islands of Bioko, São-Tomé, Grande Comore, and Madagascar.

Nutritionists say it reduces constipation, sore throat and aids digestion, which are also common problems of pregnant women. “It contains more vitamin C than many other fruits, it is rich in calcium, iron potassium, phosphorous, magnesium, tannins, flavonoids, terpenoids, and phytochemicals.

African Cherry is called Agbalumo by the Yorubas in the southern part of Nigeria, it is a seasonal fruit that is mostly cultivated in the rural areas of the country and fully in season from January to April.

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