Violet Tree
Securidaca longipedunculatafam. Fabaceae
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Pl. 5CE6 — Securidaca longipedunculata
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IOverview
Overview
The Violet Tree (Securidaca longipedunculata) is a member of the Combretaceae family and can be found in various regions across Africa including Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, and the Caprivi Strip. Known for its edible leaves, this tree thrives in moist conditions with light to partial shade, making it adaptable to a range of soil types from sandy to clay. Standing at 6 meters tall, the Violet Tree is distinguished by its light green foliage and clusters of small flowers that give it an ornamental appeal.
Quick answers
What is Violet Tree?
The Violet Tree (Securidaca longipedunculata) is a member of the Combretaceae family and can be found in various regions across Africa including Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, and the Caprivi Strip.
Compare with:African Oil Bean Oil Bean Tree→African Walnut→Allanblackia parviflora→all comparisons →
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
The Violet Tree (Securidaca longipedunculata) thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows well in hardiness zones 10-12, making it suitable for warm climates. The tree can reach a height of 6 meters and produces edible leaves. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
6.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Violet Tree for the first time
7steps
Start with a simple Violet Tree to gain experience in gardening basics.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Violet Tree sapling, well-draining soil, and a container or garden bed.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant the Violet Tree during spring when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is light (sandy), medium, or heavy with good drainage. For containers, use a potting mix suitable for trees.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling into your prepared garden bed or container, ensuring it has enough space to grow.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress or pests.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade and regular watering, especially during dry periods. Prune lightly to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the Violet Tree in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and remove any dead branches.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of the Violet Tree (Securidaca longipedunculata) are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. They are often prepared in stews or soups, adding a mild flavor to dishes. Skip
Other uses:Weaving materialFire starterCosmeticFiberHedgerowSoapLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 30 native
Africa27 regions
native (27)AngolaBeninBotswanaBurkina FasoBurundiCameroonChadCôte d'IvoireEthiopiaGambiaGhanaGuineaKenyaMalawiMaliMauritaniaMozambiqueNamibiaNigerNigeriaRwandaSenegalSierra LeoneSudanTanzaniaTogoUganda
Broader regions
native:Caprivi Strip, Central African Repu, Northern Provinces
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fabaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fabaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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