The Tree sheltering calves - Kumukomosi Kumusecha (vangueria apiculata)

Derivation of the name: Kamakomosi - fruit from the tree. Kumuko na mosi - tree liked for shelter by calves.

Sweet and slightly tangy fruit

Natural habitat and distribution in Bungoma: Habitat: evergreen bushland and thickets, riverine forests, wooded grassland.

Distribution: Bark dark grey, smooth. Leaves opposite, stipules united into a sheath, base rounded, apex acuminate, up to 15 cm long ( usually less ). Flower greenish - White, in axillary clusters, corolla lobes curved backwards. Fruit fleshy, yellow-green when mature, up to 2.5cm in diameter, edible.

Physical features: Shape: shrub, multi stemmed from near the base, up to 9cm height. Crown: much spreading. Foliage: deciduous.

Biological Features: Tree/crop association: The tree is said to be compatible with crops.

Biomass production: rather slow growing. Other characteristics: tolerant to drought.

Reproduction: seeds.

Brown when ripe

Management: coppicing, pruning.

Ecological benefit: diversity aspect, afforestation of rocky sites, pioneer of denuded hillsides.

Tree Products and Use: fruit, posts, building material, firewood, construction, granaries, rod for herding cattle, walking stick.

Medicinal application: Root: dizziness, stomach upset in children.

Related species: KUMUKOMOSI KUMUKHASI - (Vangueria madagascariensis)

The fruits are edible and have a sweeter taste compared to vangueria apiculata. The shrub grows in rocky outcrops and as well in forest remnants and riverine forest.