10 Apr Maranthes glabra
Scientific name: Maranthes glabra (Oliv.) Prance.
Family: Chrysobalanaceae.
Distribution and conservation status: Found in evergreen and semi-deciduous forests typically on dry land but occasionally in seasonally flooded areas. Least Concern due to wide distribution and stable populations.
Common names: Africa almond (English), Abo-Idofin (Yoruba).
Fruit/seeds: A drupe, ellipsoid to ovoid, with a hard wood endocarp.
Fruiting time: October-February.
Seed extraction method: Remove pulp by soaking in water and rubbing off the flesh, crack the hard endocarp carefully to extract the seed to improve germination.
Types of seed: Recalcitrant with epigeal germination.
Sowing method: Sow directly.
Sowing medium: Mix forest topsoil and river sand.
Germination Period: 3-8 weeks
Germination percentage: 50% for fresh seeds (5/10 x 100|)
Planting: Onset of the rainy season
Growth and development: Slow to moderately fast-growing species with wide-spreading crown. Tolerant of partial shade in early stages, but later requires full sunlight. Can reach 25– 40 m in height.
Notes: Seed viability is short, so prompt sowing after collection is essential.