Annona senegalensis

Annona senegalensis

Annona senegalensis
familia	Annonaceae
genus	Annona
subfamilia	{{{subfamilia}}}
species	A. senegalensis
binomial	Annona senegalensis
binomial_authority	Pers.
unranked_classis	Magnoliids
ordo	Magnoliales
regnum	Plantae

Annona senegalensis is a species of flowering plant in the family Annonaceae. It is commonly known as the African custard apple or wild custard apple. This plant is native to the African continent, particularly in the Sahel region.

Description

Annona senegalensis is a small to medium-sized tree that can reach a height of up to 10 meters. It has a dense, rounded crown and a thick, corky bark. The leaves are alternate, simple, and oblong in shape. They are dark green on the upper surface and lighter green on the lower surface. The flowers are small, yellowish-green, and have a pleasant fragrance. The fruit of Annona senegalensis is a large, round, and greenish-yellow custard apple with a sweet and creamy pulp.

Distribution and Habitat

Annona senegalensis is native to the Sahel region of Africa, including countries such as Senegal, Mali, Niger, Chad, and Sudan. It is commonly found in dry savannahs, woodlands, and semi-arid areas. This plant is well-adapted to arid conditions and can tolerate drought and poor soil quality.

Uses

The fruit of Annona senegalensis is highly valued for its nutritional and medicinal properties. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The pulp of the fruit is consumed fresh or used to make juices, jams, and desserts. In traditional medicine, various parts of the plant, including the bark, leaves, and roots, are used to treat various ailments such as fever, diarrhea, and respiratory infections.

Conservation

Annona senegalensis is not currently listed as a threatened species. However, due to habitat loss and overexploitation, its populations are declining in some areas. Efforts are being made to promote the conservation and sustainable use of this plant through the establishment of protected areas and the cultivation of Annona senegalensis in agroforestry systems.