Skip to content
IIIFolio · plant profile№ 1DEDedible
Data provenancePermapeopleTreflePFAFPOWOreviewed 18 Oct 2026methodology → read

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 →
edibletreesedible
Updated·Quick Q&A →
Garden journal pausedUse profile notes below
Nauclea latifolia (African Peach) — botanical photograph
Pl. 1DED — Nauclea latifolia
Nauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifoliaNauclea latifolia
I

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. Thriving in full sun with a preference for dry to moist conditions, this tree can grow up to 10 meters tall and is adaptable to various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). Native to hardiness zones 10-12, it is a versatile addition to landscapes and gardens, serving multiple purposes such as a wind breaker, erosion control, and a source of tannin. The African Peach tree's edible parts include its flowers and fruits, which can be consumed fresh or dried. The flowers are often used in salads or as a garnish, while the fruits are typically eaten raw but can also be dried for later use. While the tree is not known for medicinal properties, its flowers and fruits offer a natural and ornamental addition to gardens and landscapes. Regular pruning can help maintain the tree's shape and encourage fruit production. Ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging, especially in heavier soils.

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
V

Cultivation

African Peach (Nauclea latifolia) 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. This tree can grow up to 10 meters tall and produces edible flowers and fruit. Ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging, especially in heavier soils. Regular pruning can help maintain the tree's shape and encourage fruit production.
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. 1

    What you'll need

    African Peach sapling or seeds, potting mix, container if needed.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring when the soil is moist and warm.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5; ensure containers have drainage holes.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant saplings directly into the ground or pot them in a large container with enough space for growth.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged; avoid direct sunlight and strong winds.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun, regular watering during dry periods, and occasional pruning to maintain shape.

  7. 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. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight, and neglecting regular pruning.

VI

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
VII

Distribution

28 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 28 native
Africa23 regions
native (23)AngolaBeninBurkina FasoCameroonChadCôte d'IvoireEthiopiaGabonGambiaGhanaGuineaGuinea-BissauKenyaLiberiaMaliMauritaniaNigeriaRwandaSenegalSierra LeoneSudanTogoUganda
Broader regions
native:Cabinda, Central African Repu, Congo, Gulf of Guinea Is., Zaïre
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Nauclea latifolia (African Peach) — botanical photograph
African Peach (Nauclea latifolia)
XI

Explore further

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?
Compare with another plant

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.

Newsletter returning soon.
We are rebuilding the update list around a lightweight editorial workflow. New dispatches will resume after the next content review cycle.
iCare notes