Rosaceae Synonym Pygeum africanum Hook. Prunus africana is a highland forest tree that grows in the humid and semi-humid highlands and humid midlands. The species requires lots of light and grows best in forest gaps. In its area of natural distribution, Prunus africana peaks in flowering between November and February. Sporadic flowering all year round can be found in the Kakamega Forest of Kenya.
Trees produce flowers with male and female parts.
Insects pollinate the tree, and fruits, which are highly sought after and dispersed by birds and monkeys, develop within 4-6 months thereafter. A caterpillar of the order Lepidoptera feeds on leaves, and at low altitudes aphids attack developing leaf buds, leading to defoliation. Moist conditions encourage infestation of powdery mildew and stem borers, whose presence is indicated by resin exuded through small bore holes. This has been recorded in Cameroon. Propagation and Management Propagation methods Prunus africana is collected as wild seedlings, though it can be reproduced in a nursery from seed.