Platypterocarpus tanganyikensis
Family: Celastraceae
What it is like
A tree. It grows 27 m tall. The trunk is straight. The bark is grey with a reddish tinge. The leaves are simple and alternate. They are small and oval. They are 4-12 cm long by 3-5 cm wide.
There is only one Platypterocarpus species. It is very rare.
Where it is found
It is a tropical plant. It grows in dry mountain forest.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, East Africa, Tanzania
How it is used for food
The leaves are chewed like Catha edulis.
Edible parts
Leaves - masticatory
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Mwandama-mghoshi