Uvaria chamae
Bush Banana
Uvaria chamae
U. chamae is in the Annonaceae family and is found in the tropical regions of Africa north of the equator. The fruit forms in a habit similar to other Annonaceae, such as Asimina triloba. The fruit is said to be delicious and preferred to be eaten out of hand. One feature that brings an attractive element to this tree, is that the flowers and most parts of the tree are strongly fragrant. The plant is widely used for its medicinal effects within it’s native range and has been used to develop treatments for diseases such as Malaria.
This ornamental, edible, and medicinal plant has value in tropical gardens. It has an unknown frost hardiness but for the brave soul who wants to push the limits, this is definitely an important member to add to the collection.
Family: Annonaceae
Name: Uvaria chamae
Common Name / Native Name: Bush Banana
Range: Central Africa
Sun: Full sun/ Part shade
Height: Up to 12 feet
Width: Up to 12 feet
Foliage: Light green foliage, lanceolate and similar to other Annonaceae
Flower: Inconspicuous yellow flowers born in bunches
Fruit: A fruit that forms in bunches similar to bananas. It is orange on the outside an orangeish yellow flesh interior.
Soil Type/ pH: Prefers acidity
USDA Climate Zones: Undetermined, likely 10a+
Cold Hardiness: Undetermined
Edibility: Delicious fruit, great for eating out of hand and to be used in preserves or other creative applications. Fruit is believed to have medicinal benefit as well as other parts of the plant.
Sources:
http://tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Uvaria+chamae