Habitat: Tropical Africa
Status: Not Endangered
DAK Locale: Harambe Village
The Kigelia is more popularly referred to as the sausage tree. It is named as such for obvious reasons as it has fruit that grows as a peduncle, hanging down from the leaves. They look much like sausages hanging from the branches. In some areas, it is also referred to as the cucumber tree for the same reasons.
It is an unusual plant as it is the only species in its genus. However, it is fairly widespread throughout its home continent from Chad in the Sahara all the way to South Africa.
It can grow to be 20 meters in height. The fruit is a type of berry that is commonly eaten by many species like monkeys, bush pigs, giraffe, elephants and hippos. The fruit is also used by local people as a medicine for all types of ailments from syphilis to snake bites to evil spirits. It is also used to make beer and is found in some skin care products.
By Safari Mike
