You are here: Home » Reforest Nsefu » Tree Descriptions » Trichilia Emetica
Print this page

Trichilia Emetica (Cape Mahogany) (Msikizi)

Best shade tree, usually grows up to 20m, can spread over 15m. Evergreen. Fairly fast growing, prefers high water table, often grows close to rivers.

Husk poisonous, but scarlet seed coat (aril) soaked in water produces a sweet milky liquid that is said to be delicious with bananas.

Bark soaked in warm water is used as emetic or enema. Oil from seed can be used to make soap and ointment, treat hair and skin disorders, and taken internally to treat rheumatism

Leaves crushed and rubbed into skin as antidote to itching effect of buffalo beans.

Pieces of root and bark are tied to doves cages to tame them. The leaves are said to induce sleep if placed in one’s bed.

Indigenous Tree


^ Top