Griffonia
Griffonia simplicifolia
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Pl. EADC — Griffonia simplicifolia
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IOverview
Overview
Griffonia simplicifolia, commonly known as Griffonia, is a tree native to the tropical regions of West Africa, including Benin, Congo, Gabon, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Nigeria, and Togo. This plant thrives in full sun with moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows up to 3 meters tall and is known for its edible leaves, sap, and stem, making it a valuable resource in the local diet. One distinctive feature of Griffonia is its adaptability to various soil types and climates within its native range.
Quick answers
What is Griffonia?
Griffonia simplicifolia, commonly known as Griffonia, is a tree native to the tropical regions of West Africa, including Benin, Congo, Gabon, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Nigeria, and Togo. This plant thrives in full sun with moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Griffonia thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows up to 3 meters tall and is hardy in zones 10-12. Propagate through leaves, sap, or stem cuttings. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist for best growth.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
3.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Griffonia for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Griffonia in a sunny spot and follow these simple steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
Griffonia seeds or young plants, potting soil, containers if starting indoors.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Griffonia in spring when the last frost has passed and temperatures are warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining potting mix. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, then transplant outdoors after danger of frost passes.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil moist and place in a sunny spot. Water regularly to maintain moisture.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize sparingly with compost.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune young plants to encourage bushy growth. Harvest leaves and sap as needed for culinary use.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight, neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSapStem
Edible uses: Drink
Other uses:Weaving materialCosmeticDyeFiberPest controlTeethLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
8 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
8 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 8 native
Africa7 regions
native (7)BeninCôte d'IvoireGabonGhanaLiberiaNigeriaTogo
Broader regions
native:Congo
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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