Kigelia

Kigelia, commonly known as the sausage tree, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Bignoniaceae. It comprises a single species, Kigelia africana. This tree is native to the tropical regions of sub-Saharan Africa. It is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 20 meters tall, with a spreading crown.

The most distinctive feature of the Kigelia africana is its large, sausage-shaped fruits. These fruits are heavy, woody, and can weigh up to 10 kilograms, measuring about 50 centimeters in length. They hang from long, rope-like peduncles, giving the tree its common name. The fruits are not typically eaten by humans as they are bitter and indigestible, although some traditional medicinal uses have been documented.

The flowers of the Kigelia africana are large, crimson, and trumpet-shaped, blooming in clusters. They are primarily pollinated by bats, which are attracted to the nectar and the strong scent the flowers emit at night. The bark of the tree is also used in traditional medicine for various ailments.

Kigelia africana has a wide distribution across Africa, thriving in various habitats including savannas, woodlands, and riverbanks. It is also cultivated in other tropical and subtropical regions as an ornamental tree due to its striking appearance and unique fruits. Efforts are being made to understand and utilize the various compounds found in the tree for potential pharmaceutical applications.