Arere
Triplochiton scleroxylonfam. Meliaceae
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Pl. 40E6 — Triplochiton scleroxylon
Triplochiton scleroxylonTriplochiton scleroxylonTriplochiton scleroxylonTriplochiton scleroxylonTriplochiton scleroxylonTriplochiton scleroxylonTriplochiton scleroxylonTriplochiton scleroxylonTriplochiton scleroxylonTriplochiton scleroxylonTriplochiton scleroxylonTriplochiton scleroxylonTriplochiton scleroxylonTriplochiton scleroxylon
IOverview
Overview
Arere, scientifically known as Triplochiton scleroxylon, is a large tree native to the tropical regions of West and Central Africa, including Benin, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Togo. This tree thrives in moist environments with light to medium soil types and can grow up to 40 meters tall. Arere is valued for its edible leaves, making it a useful plant in local cuisine. Its distinctive feature lies in its unique bark, which peels off in large sheets, revealing a lighter inner layer.
Quick answers
What is Arere?
Arere, scientifically known as Triplochiton scleroxylon, is a large tree native to the tropical regions of West and Central Africa, including Benin, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Togo.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Arere thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 10-12 and can grow up to 40 meters tall. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist while providing ample sunlight. Propagate through seeds or cuttings. The edible parts are its leaves.
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 Arere for the first time
7steps
Start with a simple, light-loving tree that can grow in various soil types.
- 1
What you'll need
Arere seeds or young saplings, potting mix if planting in containers.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Arere during the rainy season for best results.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay soils. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start saplings indoors before transplanting to their final location.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil moist and provide partial shade if planting outdoors during hot periods.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially when young. Avoid overwatering in heavy clay soils. Provide full sun once established.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches as needed. Leaves can be harvested for use.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of the Arere tree are edible and can be consumed fresh or cooked. They are typically prepared by boiling or steaming to add flavor to various dishes. Skip
Other uses:textilesPioneerRoofingLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
14 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
14 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 14 native
Africa11 regions
native (11)BeninCameroonCôte d'IvoireEquatorial GuineaGabonGhanaGuineaLiberiaNigeriaSierra LeoneTogo
Broader regions
native:Central African Repu, Congo, Zaïre
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 (Meliaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Meliaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
XII
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