Buffalo Thorn
Ziziphus mucronata — Rhamnaceae
Italiano: Spino del bufalo
Description
Buffalo Thorn (Ziziphus mucronata) belongs to the Rhamnaceae family and is native to Africa. It thrives in Savanna, woodland, riverine environments across regions including Africa. Botanically, Buffalo Thorn is iconic African thorn tree with small edible sweet-sour red-brown fruits and bark used for burial rituals.. The edible parts include Fruits. With an edibility rating of 6/10, it ranks as a good wild food source. Harvesting is best done during April, February, March and May. Nutritionally, Buffalo Thorn stands out for its Vitamin C (45.0mg, 50% DV), Vitamin K (30.0mg, 25% 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, Buffalo Thorn offers a Sweet-sour, date-like when dried flavor profile. Pick when turning from green to red-brown. Common culinary applications include Fresh eating, Dried snacks. Popular preparations include Eat ripe red-brown fruits fresh. For storage, refrigerate fresh parts. Safety note: Sharp thorns; don't eat unripe green fruit. 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: Eat ripe red-brown fruits fresh
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 eating, Dried snacks Storage: Refrigerate fresh parts
Recipes
- Eat ripe red-brown fruits fresh
