African Bush Cherry
Maerua edulis — Capparaceae
Italiano: Ciliegia africana
Description
African Bush Cherry (Maerua edulis) belongs to the Capparaceae family and is native to Africa. It thrives in Dry bushland, scrub environments across regions including Africa. Botanically, African Bush Cherry is shrub or small tree with edible sweet-sour fruits and young shoots used as a leafy vegetable.. The edible parts include Fruits, Young shoots, Leaves. With an edibility rating of 6/10, it ranks as a good wild food source. Harvesting is best done during August, July, June, May and September. Nutritionally, African Bush Cherry stands out for its Vitamin K (30.0mg, 25% DV), Vitamin C (20.0mg, 22% DV) and Vitamin E (1.0mg, 7% DV). It also provides 2.0g protein and 3.0g dietary fiber per 100g serving. In the kitchen, African Bush Cherry offers a Sweet-sour, berry-like flavor profile. Shoots boiled or steamed like spinach. Common culinary applications include Fresh fruits, Cooked greens. Popular preparations include Steam young shoots with onions and tomato. For storage, refrigerate fresh parts. Safety note: None significant. Antinutrient content is minimal. Be aware that Verify identification before consumption. Safe lookalike species include Similar edible species. Always verify identification with at least three independent botanical sources before consumption.
🌿 Foraging Tips
🍳 Recipe: Steam young shoots with onions and tomato
This is one of the traditional ways to prepare this wild edible plant. Always ensure proper plant identification before cooking.
Edibility
Harvest Calendar
Nutrition (per 100g)
Culinary Uses: Fresh fruits, Cooked greens Storage: Refrigerate fresh parts
Recipes
- Steam young shoots with onions and tomato
