Botanical Name: Citropsis articulata
Common Names:Citropsis, African Cherry Orange, West African cherry orange, Uganda cherry orange, and locally as omuboro
Habitat: Citropsis is native to tropical West Africa.
Citropsis articulata is an evergreen shrub or small tree growing from 2.5 – 7 metres tall. The leaves are up to 33 centimeters long and are made up of pointed leaflets. The inflorescence is a cluster of flowers with four white petals each nearly 2 centimeters long. The style may be 1.5 centimeters long. The fruit is 2 or 3 centimeters long.
The bole, which can be around 23cm in diameter, is usually branched from the base The branches are armed with thorns that are 5 – 25mm long
The tree is sometimes harvested from the wild for its edible fruit and medicinal uses. It has acquired a high reputation for treating impotence and is often gathered from the wild and the root traded. The plant has also been recommended for use as an ornamental.
The plant seems to be endangered by extinction in Uganda where the root is considered aphrodisiac and is commonly harvested from the wild.
Plants are said to be able to tolerate at least occasional light frosts.
Grows best in a sunny position. Prefers a fertile, moist but well-drained soil
Seed – rather slow to germinate, but usually coming relatively true to their parent
Fruit – raw, The tangerine-like fruits have a typically sweet orange-like flavour.
The bark is used medicinally
The root is aphrodisiac. It is claimed by some to be the herbal equivalent of ‘Viagra
In Uganda, an infusion made of the ground root of omuboro, drunk once a day for three days is considered to be a powerful aphrodisiac for men only. Science has not investigated the veracity of this belief. The herbal preparation is sold locally. Conservationists in Uganda are concerned that demand for the plant is such that the species may require conservation efforts.
Disclaimer : The information presented herein is intended for educational purposes only. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplement, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.