09 Apr Nesogordonia papaverifera
Scientific name: Nesogordonia papaverifera A. Chev.
Family: Malvaceae.
Distribution and conservation status: Found in semi-deciduous forests. Vulnerable due to habitat loss, forest degradation, and timber exploitation.
Common names: Danta (English), gbogbo/ Otutu (Yoruba), Ewuru (Igbo)
Fruit/seeds: A small woody, ovoid capsule (2–3 cm), which splits open when mature, 1–5 per capsule, small, dark brown to black.
Fruiting time: December- March.
Seed extraction method: Dry capsules. Remove seeds by hand or by gentle rubbing/sieving.
Types of seed: Recalcitrant with epigeal germination.
Sowing method: Direct sowing.
Sowing medium: Mix forest topsoil and river sand.
Germination Period: 14-28 days
Germination percentage: 70% for fresh seeds (70/100 x 100)
Planting: Partial shade at early stage.
Growth and development: Large deciduous tree, up to 35-45 m tall, bole often straight and cylindrical, branchless for 20–25 m, moderately fast-growing under good conditions.
Notes: Conservation through nursery propagation and plantation establishment is strongly recommended.