Chewing gum tree

Where does Chewing gum tree grow?

Found in: Africa, Botswana, Burundi, Central Africa, Congo, East Africa, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, Southern Africa, Sudan, Tanzania, West Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe

Status: The fruit are popular with children and herdsmen. It is sold in local markets.

Growing Chewing gum tree

Cultivation: Plants can be grown from seeds. It is best to remove the seed coat. Seeds germinate in 20-60 days. Seedling trays should not be kept too moist. Seedlings can be transplanted at the 3 leaf stage. Often seeds are sown directly in the field.

Edible Uses: The whole fruit, except the seeds, is chewed like chewing gum. A sweet slime is produced. The seeds are not edible. The fruit need to be fully ripe. The hard outer layer is peeled off. Dried fruit are used for jellies. They are cooked and eaten in large quantities during famines. The fruit can be boiled and a little salt and dried and then stored for about 4 months. The fruit can be used for jam and processed products.

Production: It is reasonably slow growing.

Nutrition Info

Chewing gum tree Photos

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