Bobgunnia madagascariensis
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Scientific
Classification
Synonyms
Species
ID: NMP-212;wfo-0000192568;NCBI_Taxonomy ID: 149635 Common
Names: snake bean Description Bobgunnia
madagascariensis is a small deciduous tree, typically reaching heights of 3 to
4 meters. The stems and branches are often twisted and contorted, with dark
grey, rough, and fissured bark. The leaves are imparipinnate, comprising 5 to
11 alternate to subopposite leaflets that are elliptic to obovate, measuring
2.5 to 7 cm in length. The leaflets are leathery, dark green, and hairless
above, with a yellowish velvety underside. The plant produces sweetly scented
flowers in lax sprays of 2 to 10, each featuring one large white petal and a
mass of orange-yellow stamens. The cylindrical pods can grow up to 30 cm long,
turning dark brown to black when ripe and are indehiscent. Distribution
and Habitat Bobgunnia
madagascariensis is native to tropical and southern Africa, with its range
extending from Guinea to Chad, Tanzania, northern South Africa, and Namibia. In
Nigeria, it is found in deciduous woodland and wooded grassland, often on sandy
soils. Medicinal
Properties Various
parts of Bobgunnia madagascariensis are utilized in traditional African
medicine. The seeds, fruits, and stem bark are known for their toxic properties
and are used in fishing by poisoning, enabling easy capture of fish. Additionally,
the plant has been reported to possess antifungal properties, with compounds
isolated from the root bark showing activity against certain fungal pathogens. Known
Toxicity Bobgunnia
madagascariensis is recognized for its toxic properties. The seeds contain
compounds that are used in the preparation of poison arrows by the Bushmen,
highlighting its potent toxicity. The
plant's toxicity is also exploited in traditional fishing practices, where its
components are used to poison fish. Additional
Information The
wood of Bobgunnia madagascariensis, known as Pau Rosa, is valued for its
durability and is used in furniture making, carvings, and other small specialty
wood items. The heartwood varies in color from pink or yellow to darker
reddish-brown, often with darker brown streaks, and is noted for its high
natural luster.
References
More Pictures
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| Compounds of Bobgunnia madagascariensis | |
| References | Adeyemi, M. H., & Amupitan, J. O. (2011). Chemical and biological evaluation of the stem bark of Bobgunnia madagascariensis (Desv.) JH Kirkbr. & Wiersema). J Basic Appl Chem, 1, 46-51. |
