African medlar
Vangueria infausta
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Pl. B185 — Vangueria infausta
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IOverview
Overview
African medlar (Vangueria infausta) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to regions of Africa including Angola, Botswana, Cameroon, and Kenya. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types such as light sandy, medium, and heavy clay soils. Hardy from zones 10-12, this plant grows up to 5 meters tall. Known for its edible fruit, the African medlar is valued not only for its ornamental qualities but also for its culinary uses in local cuisines. One distinctive feature of this plant is its showy flowers that attract pollinators, adding a splash of color to its surroundings.
Quick answers
What is African medlar?
African medlar (Vangueria infausta) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to regions of Africa including Angola, Botswana, Cameroon, and Kenya.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
African medlar thrives in full to partial sun and prefers well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is drought-tolerant but will produce better fruit with regular moisture. The plant grows up to 5 meters tall and is hardy in zones 10-12. For propagation, use seeds or cuttings. Harvest the edible fruits when ripe for consumption.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
5.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow African medlar for the first time
8steps
Start with planting African medlar in a sunny spot and follow these simple steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
African medlar plant, well-draining soil, watering can or hose.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant African medlar in spring when the weather starts warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with light to medium soil that drains well. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from nursery pots into your garden, spacing them about 3 meters apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the plant regularly to help it establish its roots. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and regular watering, especially during dry periods. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune African medlar in late winter to encourage new growth and remove any dead branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, not providing enough sunlight, neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The African medlar's fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. The fruit is typically consumed fresh but can also be dried for later use. Skip the preparation details to maintain brevity.
Other uses:Fire starterLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
20 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
20 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 20 native
Africa14 regions
native (14)AngolaBotswanaCameroonEswatiniKenyaMalawiMozambiqueNamibiaRwandaSudanTanzaniaUgandaZambiaZimbabwe
Broader regions
native:Cape Provinces, Caprivi Strip, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Northern Provinces, Zaïre
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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