Gambeya albida

Species of tree

Gambeya albida, commonly known as the African star apple, is a species of tree in the family Sapotaceae. It is native to tropical regions of Africa and is valued for its edible fruit.

Description

Gambeya albida is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to 25 meters in height. The tree has a dense, rounded crown and a straight trunk. The bark is grayish-brown and smooth, becoming rough and scaly with age.

The leaves of Gambeya albida are simple, alternate, and oblong to elliptic in shape. They are dark green and glossy on the upper surface, with a paler underside. The leaves are leathery and have a prominent midrib.

The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, arranged in clusters. They are hermaphroditic, containing both male and female reproductive organs.

Fruit

Fruit of Gambeya albida

The fruit of Gambeya albida is a berry, commonly referred to as the African star apple. It is round to oval in shape, with a diameter of 3 to 6 centimeters. The skin is thin and smooth, turning from green to yellow or orange when ripe.

The flesh of the fruit is juicy and sweet, with a slightly acidic taste. It contains several seeds, which are hard and brown. The fruit is rich in vitamin C and other nutrients, making it a popular food source in its native regions.

Distribution and Habitat

Gambeya albida is found in tropical Africa, from Senegal in the west to Uganda in the east. It grows in a variety of habitats, including lowland rainforests, savannas, and riverine forests. The tree is adaptable to different soil types but prefers well-drained, fertile soils.

Uses

The fruit of Gambeya albida is consumed fresh and is a popular snack in many African countries. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as diarrhea and fever.

The wood of the tree is hard and durable, making it suitable for construction and furniture making. The bark and leaves are used in traditional medicine for their purported health benefits.

Conservation

Gambeya albida is not currently listed as threatened, but habitat loss due to deforestation and agricultural expansion poses a risk to its populations. Conservation efforts focus on sustainable harvesting and habitat protection.

Related pages

• Sapotaceae
• Gambeya
• African star apple