Niam Tree
Lophira alata
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Pl. 97EB — Lophira alata
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IOverview
Overview
The Niam Tree (Lophira alata) is a large tree native to several West and Central African countries including Benin, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Sudan, and Uganda. Known for its edible fruit, this tree thrives in moist environments with light to heavy soil types. It prefers full sun and grows up to 40 meters tall. The Niam Tree is distinguished by its distinctive leaves and flowers, making it a notable ornamental addition to landscapes while also providing a valuable food source in its native range.
Quick answers
What is Niam Tree?
The Niam Tree (Lophira alata) is a large tree native to several West and Central African countries including Benin, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Sudan, and Uganda.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
The Niam Tree thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It can grow to a height of 40 meters and is hardy in zones 10-12, making it suitable for warmer climates. For propagation, the tree can be grown from seeds or cuttings. Its fruit is edible, adding a unique flavor to local cuisine.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
40.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Niam Tree for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple Niam Tree to gain experience in tree care.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Niam Tree sapling, well-draining soil, and a large pot or garden space.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant the Niam Tree during spring when temperatures are warm and stable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a mix of light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. Ensure good drainage in containers.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling carefully to avoid damaging roots. Plant it at the same depth as it was in its container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in a sunny spot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and regular watering to maintain moisture levels. Fertilize lightly during growing seasons.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune young branches to shape the tree and remove any dead or diseased parts as needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full shade, not providing enough support for tall trees.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:Essential OilHairoilSoapLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
18 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
18 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 18 native
Africa15 regions
native (15)BeninCameroonChadCôte d'IvoireEquatorial GuineaGabonGambiaGhanaGuineaGuinea-BissauLiberiaNigeriaSierra LeoneSudanUganda
Broader regions
native:Central African Repu, Congo, Zaïre
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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