DISTRIBUTION
A widely distributed species in dry savannahs in east and southern Africa. In Tanzania it ranges from the coast to the highlands, along river courses and more abundantly in Babati and Singida districts (RSCU 1992). It is found on stony, rocky slopes, on steep river banks, low lying depressions, and flats in dry deciduous woodlands.
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Minimum Rainfall (mm): |
400 |
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Maximum Rainfall (mm): |
900 |
REQUIREMENTS
Soil Requirements: Prefers shallow sands (FAO 1988) and calcareous soils, rich sands along river banks, stony slopes, and sandy coastal areas (don Maydell 1986). G. bicolor is sometimes found on clay or skeletal soils.
Influential Factors: Very drought resistant (FAO 1988).
PROPAGATION
Means of Propagation: Seed and cuttings.
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Seeds per kg: |
150 |
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Seed Sources: |
Institut Sénégalais de Recherches Agricoles, Centre National de Recherches, Parc Forestier de Hann, BP 2312, Dakar, Sénégal |
Seedling Management: Small round edible fruits are about 5 mm in diameter, turning purple or black when ripe. Highest survival rates are likely with heel cuttings (FAO 1988).
SILVICULTURE
Planting Types: Planted in fields, along boundaries and possibly in small stands. It is reported to have potential for planting in Iringa.
Growth Factors: Slow growing but fruits abundantly.
Growth Cycle: Flowering and fruiting occur in the rainy season. Leaves fall during the dry season.
Limitations to Planting: Lack of silvicultural and marketing information.
Management Systems: Tolerates pruning.
IMPORTANT USES
Use #1: FRUIT
Fruit is eaten fresh or sun dried and is well-liked by people in Dodoma and Arusha regions. The fruit also makes a good forage. In other parts of Africa a juice and an alcoholic drink are made from the fruit (FAO 1988).
Use #2: MEDICINE
A decoction of the root or bark is used for diarrhoea. The roots have also been reported to be given to treat gonorrhoea and female fertility and the bark for boils, sores, inflammation of the intestines, syphilis, and as a diuretic and laxative.
Use #3: GENERAL PURPOSE WOOD
The wood is hard and durable and used for building materials and domestic uses such as spoons, walking sticks, clubs, arrows, bows, and tool handles. The wood is used by the Waarusha and Masai for clubs and spears. It is also a respected firewood.
OTHER USES: Twigs are used by water diviners to locate underground water (RSCU 1992).
