Douka
Tieghemella africana
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Pl. D6A6 — Tieghemella africana
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IOverview
Overview
Douka, scientifically known as Tieghemella africana, is a large tree native to the tropical regions of Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, and Ivory Coast. This tree thrives in moist environments with well-drained soil types such as light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It can tolerate various levels of sunlight, from full sun to partial shade, making it adaptable to different microclimates within its native range. Known for its edible seed, douka is valued both for ornamental purposes and as a source of food in local communities. Its distinctive feature includes reaching heights of up to 45 meters, contributing significantly to the landscape of its habitat.
Quick answers
What is Douka?
Douka, scientifically known as Tieghemella africana, is a large tree native to the tropical regions of Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, and Ivory Coast. This tree thrives in moist environments with well-drained soil types such as light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Douka thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It can grow up to 45 meters tall and is hardy in zones 10-12. Propagate through seeds.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
45.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Douka for the first time
7steps
Start with a simple planting of Douka in a sunny spot, and you'll be on your way to growing this tree.
- 1
What you'll need
Douka seeds or seedlings, potting mix if container planting.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay textures.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start seedlings indoors before transplanting outside.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist and provide partial shade to help young plants establish.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Ensure full sun to partial shade exposure.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Focus on pruning for shape and removing dead branches; harvesting is not common for this plant.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:Lumberoil
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 5 native
Africa3 regions
native (3)CameroonCôte d'IvoireGabon
Broader regions
native:Congo, Zaïre
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · d6a622c9-5d12-4c01-8606-55ff56ff37d1
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