Umugimbu (Umushashi) (Mitzeeri)
Bridelia micrantha
A medium-to-large deciduous tree (to 20m) with a spreading crown and flaky grey-brown bark. Its elliptic leaves have a distinctive herring-bone venation pattern and turn bright orange in the dry season.
- Kinyarwanda name
- Umugimbu (Umushashi)
- English name
- Mitzeeri
- Scientific name
- Bridelia micrantha
- Family
- Phyllanthaceae
- Conservation status
- Least Concern (IUCN)
Habitat
Coastal, riverine and swamp forest, moist forest margins, also open woodland and rocky outcrops, sea level to nearly 2,000m.
Distribution
Extremely wide African range from Senegal to Ethiopia and south to South Africa; confirmed present in Rwanda.
Uses
Traditional medicine: anti-abortifacient, a laxative or purgative, and to treat diverse conditions of the central nervous system.
Ecological importance
Small yellow flower clusters support pollinating insects; sweet edible black fruit is eaten by birds and other wildlife, aiding seed dispersal.
Ibisobanuro
ubuvuzi gakondo. kibuza gukuramo inda.