Black Plum
Vitex donianafam. Lamiaceae
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Pl. 3FC8 — Vitex doniana
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IOverview
Overview
Black Plum (Vitex doniana) is a member of the Lamiaceae family and is native to several African countries including Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Congo, Ethiopia, and others. This tree can grow up to 15 meters tall and thrives in moist conditions with light to partial shade. It prefers well-drained soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) and is hardy in zones 10-12. Known for its edible fruit, leaves, seeds, and shoots, Black Plum also has documented medicinal uses. Its distinctive feature includes its adaptability to various habitats across a wide range of African regions.
Quick answers
What is Black Plum?
Black Plum (Vitex doniana) is a member of the Lamiaceae family and is native to several African countries including Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Congo, Ethiopia, and others. This tree can grow up to 15 meters tall and thrives in moist conditions with light to partial shade.
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Digestive Ease
digestiontincture
Historically used for digestive issues.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Black Plum thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 10-12 and can grow up to 15 meters tall. Propagate via seeds or shoots for the best results. The plant is native to regions including Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, and more, making it adaptable to various tropical and subtropical climates.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
15.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Black Plum for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Black Plum in a sunny spot and follow these simple steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, potting mix, container (if starting indoors), garden space.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the soil is moist and warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-7.5; ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Start seeds indoors in small pots, then transplant to larger containers or outdoors after danger of frost passes.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist and place the plant in a partially shaded area to acclimate.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun once established; water when dry, especially during fruiting. Prune lightly to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune after fruiting to encourage new growth and remove dead branches; harvest fruits in late summer.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight, neglecting to prune.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitLeavesSeedShoots
Edible uses: Coffee, Condiment, Drink, Sweetener, Tea
Other uses:Fire starterDyeLumberInkMulchPioneerResinSoil conditionerTeethNitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 30 native
Africa27 regions
native (27)AngolaBeninBurkina FasoBurundiCameroonChadComorosCôte d'IvoireEthiopiaGabonGambiaGhanaGuineaGuinea-BissauKenyaLiberiaMadagascarMalawiMaliMauritaniaMozambiqueNigerNigeriaRwandaSenegalSierra LeoneSudan
Broader regions
native:Central African Repu, Congo, Gulf of Guinea Is.
XSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Lamiaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Lamiaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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