Camwood
Baphia nitida
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Pl. CE56 — Baphia nitida
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IOverview
Overview
Camwood, scientifically known as Baphia nitida, is a deciduous tree native to West and Central Africa, including countries such as Benin, Cameroon, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Ghana, and Nigeria. This plant thrives in moist environments with light, full sun exposure and can grow up to 10 meters tall. Known for its edible seeds, Camwood is both ornamental and useful due to its native range and cultivation potential. One distinctive feature of this tree is its adaptability to various soil types—light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay)—making it a versatile addition to gardens or landscapes in suitable climates.
Quick answers
What is Camwood?
Camwood, scientifically known as Baphia nitida, is a deciduous tree native to West and Central Africa, including countries such as Benin, Cameroon, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Ghana, and Nigeria. This plant thrives in moist environments with light, full sun exposure and can grow up to 10 meters tall.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Camwood thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 10-12, making it suitable for warmer climates. This tree grows up to 10 meters tall and produces edible parts from its seeds. For successful cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist while providing ample sunlight.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
10.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Camwood for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, light-loving Camwood tree in your garden for a rewarding beginner project.
- 1
What you'll need
A Camwood seed and a small pot or direct planting area.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant seeds in spring when the weather starts warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light, medium, and heavy textures.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds outdoors or start them in a pot before transplanting to the garden.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in full sun for best growth.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells, and ensure it gets plenty of sunlight.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Focus on pruning to maintain shape rather than harvesting; Camwood is not commonly harvested for its parts.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy shade, and neglecting regular watering are common pitfalls.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: The seed of Camwood (Baphia nitida) is edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. Typically, the seeds are prepared by boiling to make a nutritious addition to meals. Skip the detailed preparation steps as they were not provided in the data.
Other uses:CosmeticDyeFencingLumberHedgerowPaintTeethNitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
14 native · 2 introduced
Distribution
14 native · 2 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 14 native· 2 introduced
Asia1 region
introduced (1)Sri Lanka
Africa12 regions
native (12)BeninCameroonCôte d'IvoireEquatorial GuineaGabonGhanaGuineaLiberiaNigeriaSenegalSierra LeoneTogo
Broader regions
native:Congo, Gulf of Guinea Is.
introduced:Malaya
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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