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African jointfir

Scientific Name: Gnetum africanum

Family: Gnetaceae

Category: Gymnosperm

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Gnetum africanum: African Jointfir

Gnetum africanum, commonly known as African Jointfir or Eru, is a fascinating vine species native to tropical Africa.

Considerations for Children

  • As a vine, Gnetum africanum might present a tangling hazard if accessible to young children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Gnetum africanum Welw.
  • Common Names: African Jointfir, Eru, Ukase, Afang, Wild spinach, Fumbwa, Okazi, Mfumbwa.
  • Family: Gnetaceae
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species
  • Synonym: Africanum (Implied, based on context indicating a complete plant record)
  • Nomenclatural Reference: Trans. Linn. Soc. London 27(1): 73. 1869 (Published December 24, 1869)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Gnetum africanum is found natively throughout tropical Africa.
  • Specific regions include west central tropical Africa, Angola, and the Central African Republic.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Gnetum africanum is a vine species.
  • It is a gymnosperm, though it bears leaves.
  • It is an evergreen.

Traditional Uses

  • In African cultures, the leaves of Gnetum africanum are used as a vegetable, often in combination with other ingredients.
  • Wild spinach or Africa jointfir is a remedy for sore throat, nausea, and reduction of pain during childbirth.

Related Species

  • The text mentions other Gnetum species, including Gnetum arboreum, Gnetum bosavicum, Gnetum buchholzianum, and Gnetum camporum.

Further Resources

  • BioLib.cz (Referenced by URL: http://www.biolib.cz/en/taxonnames/id212683/)
  • portal-jardin.com
  • Discover Life