Rauvolfia sellowii

Mull.Arg.

Apocynaceae Edible: Fruit Potential hazards — see below 15 iNaturalist observations

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iNaturalist· cc-by

Description

A medium-sized tropical tree in the Apocynaceae family growing 4-12 m tall.

This description is brief — help expand it

Edible Uses

The fruit are eaten.

Known Hazards

Although we have seen no specific information for this species, most if not all members of this genus contain poisonous alkaloids.

Distribution

It is a tropical plant.

Where It Grows

Bolivia, Brazil, South America,

Cultivation

Grows best in a sunny position. Grows best in moist, fertile soils. The branches break off rather easily in the wind and so the tree needs to be grown in a sheltered position. A fast-growing tree.

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a semi-shaded position in individual containers. A germination rate in excess of 60% can be expected, with the seed sprouting within 30 - 50 days.

Other Uses

The wood is light in weight, soft, of low durability. Easy to work with, but of low quality, and only used for low quality purposes such as linings, cheap toys, boxes and light devices. A fast-growing tree that provides a good source of food for the local fauna. It can be used as a pioneer species when re-establishing native woodland.