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Data provenancePermapeopleTreflePFAFreviewed 18 Oct 2026methodology → read

Mbohoya

Ancylobotrys petersiana
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
ediblevinesedibleedible fruitnative africaperennialshade tolerant
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Ancylobotrys petersiana (Mbohoya) — botanical photograph
Pl. FA12 — Ancylobotrys petersiana
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I

Overview

Mbohoya, scientifically known as Ancylobotrys petersiana, is a light-loving plant that thrives in full to partial sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions. Native to regions such as Burundi, Chad, Comoros, Kenya, KwaZulu-Natal, Madagascar, Malawi, and Mozambique, this plant reaches heights of up to 6 meters. It is valued for its edible fruit, which can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. The fruit is often consumed fresh but can also be dried for later use. Mbohoya grows well in a variety of soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay), and is hardy in zones 10-12, making it suitable for warmer climates. This plant is also appreciated for its utility in weaving, serving as a valuable material for textiles. While not medicinal, Mbohoya's fruit provides a nutritious and versatile food source in its native regions.

Quick answers

What is Mbohoya?

Mbohoya, scientifically known as Ancylobotrys petersiana, is a light-loving plant that thrives in full to partial sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions. Native to regions such as Burundi, Chad, Comoros, Kenya, KwaZulu-Natal, Madagascar, Malawi, and Mozambique, this plant reaches heights of up to 6 meters.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Mbohoya thrives in full to partial sun, though it can tolerate some shade. It prefers well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). The plant is drought-tolerant but benefits from moist conditions. It is hardy in temperate regions, specifically zones 10-12. Mbohoya can grow up to 6 meters tall and produces edible fruit. Ensure the soil is not overly dry, and provide enough moisture to keep it healthy.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
6.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Mbohoya for the first time

8steps

Start with a simple, sunny spot and basic care for Mbohoya.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or small plants, a pot or garden bed.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring when the last frost has passed.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use well-draining soil. For containers, choose pots at least 30 cm wide.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds 1-2 cm deep in the garden or transplant young plants.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Keep in a sunny spot.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun and regular watering, especially during dry periods. Fertilize lightly once a month.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches as needed.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting pruning.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Mbohoya (Ancylobotrys petersiana) is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. It is often consumed fresh but can also be dried for later use. Skip
Other uses:textilesWeaving material
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

13 native · 1 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 13 native· 1 introduced
Africa11 regions
native (10)BurundiChadComorosKenyaMadagascarMalawiMozambiqueSomaliaTanzaniaZimbabwe
introduced (1)Mauritius
Broader regions
native:KwaZulu-Natal, Northern Provinces, Zaïre
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Ancylobotrys petersiana (Mbohoya) — botanical photograph
Mbohoya (Ancylobotrys petersiana)
XI

Explore further

Companion planting
Growing zone
XII

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