Opilia campestris
Family: Opiliaceae
What it is like
A shrub or small tree. It loses many leaves during the year. It grows 1-5 m high. The younger branches are olive green and have short hairs. The leaves are small and simple. They are alternate in 2 rows. They are olive green and hairy. The flowers have a scent.
Where it is found
It is a tropical plant. It grows between 60-1,450 m above sea level. It is often over limestone parent material. It grows in areas with an annual rainfall or 150-500 mm. It can grow in arid places.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, Angola, Central Africa, East Africa, Ethiopia, Kenya, Namibia, Somalia, South Africa, Southern Africa, Tanzania
How it is used for food
The ripe fruit are eaten raw. They are also used for alcoholic drinks. The leaves are used in relishes and chutneys. The roots are used as a fermenting agent for alcoholic drinks.
Edible parts
Fruit, leaves - flavouring, roots - yeast
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Afgub, Ipokeni, Kiburuburu, Lekkervreet, Mi-thumaigoro, Mubrubru, Omudize