Balanites orbicularis

Family: Zygophyllaceae

What it is like

A thorny bush. It has several stems. It keeps its leaves throughout the year. It grows 2-5 m tall. The bark is grey and becomes rough and furrowed with age. The thorns are very dark green. They are stout, 3 cm long and straight. The leaves occur in pairs. They do not have a leaf stalk. They are rounded to heart shaped and grey green and hairy. The flowers are small. They occur on bunches along the thorns. The fruit are oval and hairy. They are 2 cm long.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. It grows in arid areas. It can tolerate drought. It grows on a variety of soils. It is often found in sandy river beds.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, East Africa, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Uganda

How it is used for food

Very ripe fruit are eaten. Unripe fruit and seeds can be eaten after very long boiling.

Edible parts

Fruit, seeds

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seed. It is not necessary to treat the seed. Seed can be stored for one year after removing them from the fruit. Seeds can be sown in pots then transplanted.

Plants are slow growing.

Its other names

Local names

Kullan, Salai

Synonyms

Balanites rotundifolia;