African redwood - Hagenia abyssinica

Description and Uses

Hagenia abyssinica (African redwood) is a tropical tree from East Africa. It is mainly grown for its medicinal crops (medium shelflife), The crop is harvested by hand picking. After 50 years the tree can be totally removed as it reached its commercial and ecological goal. Hagenia abyssinica has a lifespan of 250 years.

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Environmental limitations

The tree is 22 meters tall. It is medium growing and tolerates not less light than full sun. Hagenia abyssinica has a shallow root-system and forms symbiotic relations (endo-mycorrhiza). It is not able to fix nitrogen. The tree`s flower-morphology is dioecious and is pollinated by wind.

Hagenia abyssinica thrives in an altitude of 2000 to 3000 meters above sea-level (tropical). The minimum temperature is -2°C and optimally between 15 - 23°C. The optimal rainfall is 1750 mm/year. Without irrigation the annual rainfall should be between 1000 - 1500 mm (L/m²). The optimal soil-pH is between 5.0 - 7.0 in a soil texture of loam. 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 2 months. Unfortunately propagation instruction is missing.

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