African Peach
Nauclea latifolia
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 →
Pl. 1DED — Nauclea latifolia
Nauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifolia
IOverview
Overview
African Peach (Nauclea latifolia) is a tree native to the tropical regions of West and Central Africa, including Angola, Benin, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Gabon, Guinea, Gulf of Guinea Islands, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Rwanda, Togo, and Zaïre. Known for its edible fruit and ornamental value, this plant thrives in full sun with a preference for dry to moist conditions. It can grow up to 10 meters tall and is adaptable to various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). The tree's flowers and fruits are both edible parts, making it a versatile addition to landscapes and gardens.
Quick answers
What is African Peach?
African Peach (Nauclea latifolia) is a tree native to the tropical regions of West and Central Africa, including Angola, Benin, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Gabon, Guinea, Gulf of Guinea Islands, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Rwanda, Togo, and Zaïre.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
African Peach thrives in full sun and is adaptable to various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). It prefers dry to moist conditions and is hardy in zones 10-12. To propagate, use seeds or cuttings. This tree can grow up to 10 meters tall and produces edible flowers and fruit.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
10.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow African Peach for the first time
8steps
Start with planting an African Peach in a sunny spot, and you'll have a rewarding experience as a beginner gardener.
- 1
What you'll need
African Peach sapling or seeds, potting mix, container if needed.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the soil is moist and warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5; ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant saplings directly into the ground or pot them in a large container with enough space for growth.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged; avoid direct sunlight and strong winds.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun, regular watering during dry periods, and occasional pruning to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to early spring to encourage new growth; harvest fruit when ripe, usually after 2-3 years.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight, and neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersFruit
Edible uses: The African Peach (Nauclea latifolia) is edible and its flowers and fruits can be consumed. The flowers are often used fresh in salads or as a garnish, while the fruits are typically eaten raw but can also be dried for later use.
Other uses:DyeFire starterMulchWind breakerErosion controlTanninTeethLumberCoppiceFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
28 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
28 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 28 native
Africa23 regions
native (23)AngolaBeninBurkina FasoCameroonChadCôte d'IvoireEthiopiaGabonGambiaGhanaGuineaGuinea-BissauKenyaLiberiaMaliMauritaniaNigeriaRwandaSenegalSierra LeoneSudanTogoUganda
Broader regions
native:Gulf of Guinea Is., Zaïre, Cabinda, Central African Repu, Congo
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
- Last updated
- Citation
- How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · 1deda424-9958-48db-8eb6-73915953975a
Decision aid
Choosing between African Peach and something else?
Continue reading
❦❦❦❦
Endpaper · archive updates
Get archive updates
Occasional email when substantial new content lands — plant profiles, seasonal growing notes, folk-remedy additions. Free, no tracking, unsubscribe anytime.