Family: Capparaceae
Author: Lam.
Bibliography: Tabl. Encycl.: t. 395 (1793)
Year: 1793
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Boscia
Vegetable: Unknown
Observations: Sahara & Sahel to N. Kenya
Description
Senegal boscia, scientifically known as Boscia senegalensis, is a resilient and significant plant species primarily native to the arid and semi-arid regions stretching from the Sahara Desert through the Sahel to Northern Kenya. As a member of the Capparaceae family, it has adapted remarkably well to the harsh conditions of its environment.
This robust shrub thrives in some of the most challenging terrains on the African continent, symbolizing endurance and resourcefulness inherent to desert and semi-desert flora. It often occupies dry and rocky soils where few other plants manage to survive, thus playing a critical role in stabilizing the ecosystem.
Senegal boscia is frequently found in association with nomadic and rural communities, given its wide range of applications. The plant is highly valued for its multipurpose functions. Its foliage is typically used as fodder for livestock, especially during drought periods when other forage is scarce. The leaves of Boscia senegalensis contain significant nutritional value, providing essential sustenance for pastoral animals and, indirectly, for the people who depend on these animals.
In addition to its role in pastoralism, Senegal boscia has notable applications in traditional medicine. Various parts of the plant are utilized for their therapeutic properties, addressing ailments ranging from gastrointestinal issues to respiratory diseases. This traditional knowledge underscores the importance of the plant in local healthcare practices, passed down through generations.
The fruits of Boscia senegalensis, though small, are another testament to the plant’s versatility. They can be consumed, either fresh or dried, offering a source of nutrition. The seeds are sometimes processed into flour, used as a supplemental food source during periods of food scarcity, illustrating the plant’s vital role in food security within its native regions.
Ecologically, Senegal boscia contributes to the environmental stability of the regions it inhabits. By providing ground cover, it helps to reduce soil erosion and maintain soil fertility. The plant also creates a microhabitat for various insects and small fauna, thus contributing to biodiversity.
The persistence of Senegal boscia through centuries, as duly noted in literature since 1793 (Tabl. Encycl.: t. 395), authored by Lam., highlights its longstanding relevance and adaptation. Its remarkable ability to endure and thrive in extreme conditions continues to make it an invaluable resource for both people and the environment in the arid and semi-arid regions of Africa.
In conclusion, Boscia senegalensis stands out as a remarkable species, illustrating a profound interaction between natural resilience and cultural significance. Its presence across the vast expanse from the Sahara and the Sahel to Northern Kenya embodies the plant’s unique adaptation strategies and its indispensable role in both human and ecological welfare.
Common Names
Eng: senegal boscia
En: Senegal boscia, Aizen, Mukheit
Bm: Berefin
Ff: Ngigili
Lt: Senegalinė boscija
Wo: Njàndam
Synonyms
- Boscia hypoglauca (Gilg)
- Boscia octandra var. firma ((Radlk.) Fiori)
- Boscia firma (Radlk.)
- Podoria senegalensis ((Lam.) Pers.)
- Boscia octandra (Hochst. ex Radlk.)
Distribution
- Algeria (native)
- Burkina (native)
- Cameroon (native)
- Central African Repu (native)
- Chad (native)
- Eritrea (native)
- Ethiopia (native)
- Guinea (native)
- Kenya (native)
- Mali (native)
- Mauritania (native)
- Morocco (native)
- Niger (native)
- Senegal (native)
- Sudan (native)
- Western Sahara (native)
Additional Images
Habit
Taken Nov 13, 2009 by Antoine Foucart (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 12, 2009 by Pierre-Emmanuel GAY (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 13, 2009 by Pierre-Emmanuel GAY (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 21, 2022 by Cyril Piou (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 20, 2022 by Cyril Piou (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Sep 17, 2009 by Antoine Foucart (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 17, 2009 by Antoine Foucart (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 12, 2009 by Antoine Foucart (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 18, 2007 by Antoine Foucart (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 17, 2009 by Pierre-Emmanuel GAY (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Nov 18, 2007 by Antoine Foucart (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 18, 2007 by Antoine Foucart (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 12, 2009 by Antoine Foucart (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 20, 2022 by Cyril Piou (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 21, 2022 by Cyril Piou (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Sep 15, 2009 by Antoine Foucart (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 12, 2009 by Pierre-Emmanuel GAY (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 18, 2007 by Pierre-Emmanuel GAY (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 18, 2007 by Pierre-Emmanuel GAY (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 21, 2022 by Cyril Piou (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Bark
Taken Apr 21, 2009 by Antoine Foucart (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 21, 2009 by Pierre-Emmanuel GAY (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 20, 2022 by Cyril Piou (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Sep 20, 2022 by Cyril Piou (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5377842)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:146142-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Boscia senegalensis Lam.)