Tree Directory

Common Name

African Blighia

Family

Sapindoideae

Origin & Distribution

Native to tropical West and Central Africa, occurring from Guinea-Bissau eastwards to Uganda and south to Angola. Common in Nigeria's lowland forests, forest-savanna mosaics, and riverine vegetation.

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Tree Code

UI-BG-TS-027

GPS Coordinates (Lat, Long)

7.457339, 3.894778

QR Code

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Description

Medium-sized, evergreen tree, usually 10–20 m in height, occasionally reaching 25 m; trunk straight, with a diameter of up to 60 cm. Bark greyish-brown, smooth in young trees, becoming slightly rough or flaky with age. Leaves pinnate with only one pair of large leaflets (hence "unijugata"), leaflets opposite, ovate to oblong, glossy dark green, 10–25 cm long. Flowers small, creamy-white to yellowish, fragrant, borne in terminal or axillary panicles. Fruits are 3-lobed capsules, turning from green to yellow-orange when ripe; each lobe contains a single black seed partly covered by a fleshy, whitish aril.

Ecological Information

Found in secondary forests, moist woodlands, and along streams. Flowers attract bees and other pollinators. Fruits consumed by some birds and monkeys, aiding seed dispersal.

Uses & Importance

Timber: Wood is moderately hard, used for tool handles, carpentry, and light construction. Traditional Medicine: Bark and leaves used in herbal remedies for fever, skin diseases, and gastrointestinal issues. Ornamental: Attractive foliage and fruit make it suitable for landscaping in large gardens.