Contents
Description
Kigelia Africana, also known as the sausage tree, is a deciduous tree native to sub-Saharan Africa. The tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a distinctive grey-brown bark. The tree produces large, sausage-shaped fruit that can grow up to a meter long and weigh up to 10 kg. The fruit contains numerous seeds that are surrounded by a fibrous, orange-red pulp. The fruit is edible but has a bitter taste.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Bignoniaceae |
| Genus | Kigelia |
Appearance
The Kigelia Africana tree has a broad, spreading crown and can grow up to 20 meters tall. The tree has a grey-brown, corky bark that is deeply fissured. The leaves are large, up to 50 cm long, and are composed of several leaflets. The flowers are large, trumpet-shaped, and are a deep maroon color. The fruit is sausage-shaped and can grow up to a meter long and weigh up to 10 kg. The fruit contains numerous seeds that are surrounded by a fibrous, orange-red pulp.
Care Guide
Kigelia Africana trees require moderate watering and should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season. The tree prefers well-draining soil and should be fertilized once a year with a balanced fertilizer. The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The tree is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Kigelia Africana trees are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. Some common pests include spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. Diseases that can affect the tree include root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Regular monitoring and treatment with appropriate pesticides can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
Kigelia Africana trees are native to sub-Saharan Africa and can be found in a variety of habitats, including savannas and riverine forests. The tree prefers well-draining soil and requires moderate watering.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the fruit of the Kigelia Africana tree edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible but has a bitter taste.
Q: What are some common pests that can affect the Kigelia Africana tree?
A: Spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs are common pests that can affect the tree.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Kigelia Africana tree?
A: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Q: What is the scientific name for the Kigelia Africana tree?
A: The scientific name is Kigelia Africana.
Related Plants
- Kigelia Pinnata
- Kigelia Pinnatifida
- Kigelia Somalensis
References
- “Kigelia Africana.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c497.
- “Kigelia Africana.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantklm/kigeliaafr.htm.
- “Kigelia Africana.” Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, www.kew.org/science-conservation/plants-fungi/kigelia-africana-sausage-tree.
