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Gymnosporia serrata

(Hochst. ex A. Rich.) Loes.

Celastraceae Edible: Leaves, Medicine

gbif· cc-by

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

gbif· cc-by

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

gbif· cc-by

Meise Botanic Garden

Description

A spiny tropical shrub or small tree in the family Celastraceae, growing 1–4 m tall. It is found in Ethiopia at elevations between 1,650–2,250 m.

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Edible Uses

The leaves are eaten and used medicinally.

Medicinal Uses

The leaves, known as 'add-add', are used in the treatment of malaria. They contain tannin, a bitter principle, celastrin, and a volatile oil.

Distribution

It is a tropical plant. In Ethiopia it grows between 1,650-2,250 m above sea level.

Where It Grows

Africa, East Africa, Ethiopia,

Propagation

Seed - Cuttings.

Other Uses

The wood is used to make farming implements. The plant has been recommended as suitable for growing as an evergreen hedge.

Synonyms

Celastrus edulis Hochst. ex A. RichCelastrus obscurus A. Rich.Celastrus pyrifolius Oliv.Celastrus schimperi Hochst. ex A. Rich.Celastrus serratus Hochst. ex A. Rich.Celastrus serrulatus R. Br.Gymnosporia serrata var. schimperi (Hochst, ex A. Rich.) FioriMaytenus serrata (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) R. Wilcek

References (1)

  • World Checklist of Useful Plant Species 2020. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

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