African mango tree - Irvingia gabonensis

Description and Uses

Irvingia gabonensis (African mango tree) is a tropical tree from Zaire. It is mainly grown for its nut crops (long shelflife), The crop is harvested by ground gathering. After 150 years the tree can be totally removed as it reached its commercial and ecological goal. Irvingia gabonensis has a lifespan of 500 years.

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Environmental limitations

The tree is 37 meters tall. It is very slow growing and tolerates not less light than partial shade. Irvingia gabonensis has a deep root-system and forms symbiotic relations (endo-mycorrhiza). It is not able to fix nitrogen. The tree`s flower-morphology is hermaphroditic and is pollinated by insects.

Irvingia gabonensis thrives in an altitude of 200 to 500 meters above sea-level (tropical). The minimum temperature is 14°C and optimally between 25 - 32°C. The optimal rainfall is 3000 mm/year. Without irrigation the annual rainfall should be between 1500 - 3000 mm (L/m²). The optimal soil-pH is between 4.0 - 7.0 in a soil texture of sand. To salt it is intolerant to wind and to fire .

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Pests and Diseases

and diseases.

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Seed Propagation

Seeds are orthodox and can be stored for 7 months. Unfortunately propagation instruction is missing.

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