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camwood

Scientific Name: Baphia nitida

Family: Fabaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Baphia nitida: Camwood, African Sandalwood

Baphia nitida, commonly known as camwood or African sandalwood (also sometimes referred to as barwood), is a shrubby, leguminous tree originating from central West Africa.

Considerations for Pets

  • Baphia nitida is a hard-wooded tree.
  • Camwood is sometimes used in skincare and cosmetics.

Considerations for Children

  • Baphia nitida is a hard-wooded tree.
  • Camwood is sometimes used in skincare and cosmetics.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Baphia nitida
  • Common Names: Camwood, African Sandalwood, Barwood
  • Family: Leguminosae (Pea Family) - based on mentions of "leguminous tree" and "trees of the pea family"

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to central West Africa.
  • Occurs in most West African rainforests from Sierra Leone to Cameroon.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Described as a shrubby, hard-wooded tree.
  • A small understorey tree.
  • The leaves are particularly variable in shape and size throughout its range.

Traditional Uses

  • The hard wood was formerly used in making a red dye.
  • Has been used for centuries by Africans for skincare.
  • Camwood powder is used as a beauty product.

Quirky Facts

  • In Yoruba, it is known as "yrsn".