Common Names: Marula, Umganu (SiSwati) - Scientific Name: Sclerocarya birrea

Description: - Grows up to 15-20 meters in height. - Deciduous with a spreading crown. - Pinnate leaves and small greenish-yellow flowers. - Fruits are yellow, plum-like, and contain a single seed.

Origin: - Native to sub-Saharan Africa. - Found in Eswatini and other parts of Southern Africa (Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, South Africa).

Location: - Found in the lowveld and middleveld regions of Eswatini, especially in areas with sandy soils.

Conservation Status:

Species: ()

Family:

Species IUCN Status:

Species Description:

Associated Heritage Sites:

• Mkhaya Game Reserve
• Hlane Royal National Park

General Uses:

- Timber for making utensils, furniture, and carvings. - Fruits processed into juice, jam, and alcohol. - Marula seed oil is used in cosmetics.

Benefits:

- Provides nutritious fruit high in vitamin C. - Supports biodiversity by feeding wildlife such as elephants and monkeys. - Wood is used for carvings and household items. - A source of traditional alcoholic beverages (marula beer).

Challenges:

- Requires specific soil and climatic conditions for optimal growth. - Can be overexploited for fruit and timber.

Medical Benefits:

- Bark is used to treat malaria and diarrhea. - Infusions made from leaves are used to treat stomach ailments. - Oil from seeds is used in skincare for its moisturizing properties.

Cultural Significance:

- Considered sacred in Swazi tradition; symbolizes fertility and prosperity. - Featured in rituals and ceremonies celebrating life and harvest. - The fruit is used in brewing beer for communal events and festivals.

Ecological Role:

- Provides shade and microhabitats for animals. - Helps maintain soil fertility through leaf litter. - Fruits are a vital food source for wildlife.

Threats and Conservation Efforts:

- Threats: Habitat destruction due to agriculture and urbanization; overharvesting for fruit and wood. - Conservation: Community-based programs encourage sustainable harvesting and planting.

Myths:

- A popular legend says the Marula tree is a gift from the ancestors, providing sustenance and medicine to people. - Associated with fertility myths, often referred to as the “marriage tree” in some Swazi traditions.