Hanza Live Plant (Boscia senegalensis)

Boscia senegalensis is an evergreen shrub or tree native to Africa - Senegal and Mauritania east through the Sahel to Egypt, Somalia and Kenya. It commonly known as hanza, is a member of the family Capparaceae. The plant originated from West Africa. Still a traditional food plant in Africa, this little-known fruit has potential to improve nutrition, boost food security, foster rural development and support sustainable landcare. It is widely exploited for its fruits and seeds, whilst also providing medicines and a source of materials.

The yellow cherry-sized berries (up to 15mm in diameter) are borne in clusters. When newly ripe, their rather sweet pulp is translucent and jelly-like. However, in the desiccating air it quickly dries out, turning into something not unlike caramel before ending up a brittle, brown, and quite sugary solid. Despite its good taste, this toffee-like treat is difficult to separate from the seed. Besides being eaten fresh, the ripe fruits are often boiled. The juice is sometimes extracted, filtered, and boiled down into a semisolid, which is commonly mixed with millet and curdled milk to make cakes.

Common Name: Aizen, Hanza, Mukheit, Bere, Ngigil, mandiarha

Botanical Name: Boscia senegalensis

Bloom Time/Fruiting: 4 to 5 Years

Maintenance Required: Moderate