Lannea schweinfurthii - False Marula / African Grape Tree Lannea schweinfurthii, commonly referred to as False Marula or African Grape Tree, is a deciduous tree native to savannas and woodlands across sub-Saharan Africa. Known for its edible fruits, medicinal properties, and ecological value, this hardy tree plays an important role in its native ecosystems and local economies. Features: Mature Height: Grows to a height of 6–12 meters, with a rounded or spreading crown. Bark: Smooth and gray when young, becoming rough and fissured with age. Leaves: Compound leaves with 3–5 pairs of glossy, green leaflets, turning yellow before falling in the dry season. Flowers: Small, yellow-green flowers appear in clusters, often before the leaves emerge, attracting bees and other pollinators. Fruits: Produces small, round, purple to black fruits that are sweet and edible, enjoyed by humans and wildlife. Benefits: Edible Fruits: The fruits are consumed fresh or fermented to make beverages and are rich in vitamins and minerals. Medicinal Uses: The bark, leaves, and roots are used in traditional medicine to treat ailments like diarrhea, wounds, and respiratory infections. Wildlife Support: The tree provides food and habitat for birds, insects, and mammals, including elephants and monkeys. Shade Provider: Its broad canopy offers shade, making it a popular choice for homesteads and farms. Uses: Timber: The wood is used for light construction, tool handles, and firewood, although it is not particularly durable. Erosion Control: Its extensive root system stabilizes soil, preventing erosion in degraded landscapes. Fodder: Leaves and young shoots are used as fodder for livestock, especially during dry periods. Cultural Uses: In some regions, the tree holds cultural significance and is used in rituals or as a boundary marker. Adaptability: Climate: Thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, tolerating both dry and wet conditions. Soil: Adaptable to a variety of soils, including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils. Growth Rate: Moderate, with good regenerative capacity after pruning or damage. Ecological Importance: Pollinator Attraction: Flowers attract a wide variety of pollinators, contributing to local biodiversity. Seed Dispersal: Fruits are consumed by animals, aiding natural seed distribution and forest regeneration. Cultural Significance: Lannea schweinfurthii is often associated with food security and traditional healing practices, and its fruits are traded in local markets, supporting rural livelihoods. Incorporating Lannea schweinfurthii into your landscape or agroforestry project is an excellent way to support biodiversity, provide sustenance, and promote sustainable land management.
