Le noisetier d'Afrique (Coula edulis Baill.). Un produit forestier non ligneux méconnu

Abstract

African walnut (Coula edulis Baill.). An unknown non-timber forest product. Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) are of significant nutritional, economic and cultural importance for the people of central Africa. However, many products have not yet been the subject of scientific studies; such is the case of Coula edulis. Although very little is known about this species, it has many uses and its fruits are regularly eaten and marketed by various communities. Cultivation of this tree species remains however very limited, mainly because of the low germination potential of its seeds. Its wood, renowned for its termite resistance, is used locally for construction. Mechanical tests conducted on the timber have put its technological aptitudes to the fore; it has indeed the potential to become one of the most sought-after commercial species. As in the future, Coula edulis could be managed for its wood as well as its non timber products, in-depth studies aiming at the sustainable development of this natural resource need to be implemented.

Keywords

• Coula edulis
• NTFP
• uses
• central Africa