Rhamnus prinoides L ‘Herit.(1788).

Family: Rhamnaceae

Vernacular name: Gesho

Ecology and Distribution

Mountain forest of plant usually found in edges or clearings and areas of former cultivation also in riverine forest, secondary forests and scrub also widely planted in hedges and garden, it is indigenous to Ethiopia elevations of also some part of other African countries, namely found in Cameroon. South Sudan through East Africa South Africa and Angola also in Arabia.

R. Prinoides is managed by local people or farmers. The seeds are easily germinated without any treatment and storage system. It is widely planted in home gardens throughout the country as a cash crop. Once it is established it can coppice for many years without reducing its production It can be harvested annually if it is properly managed by cultivation; weeding and irrigation during dry seasons. It can be propagated by layering of the stems.

Description

Shrub or tree: usually less than 8m high, unarmed branches lets sparsely.

Leaves: alternate, except for scattered appressed hairs on midrib, petiole 3-17 mm, sparsely pubescent; apex acuminate to acute; base cuneate to rounded.

Flowers: Yellowish-green, solitary or in 2-5 flowered axillary’s fascicles. Fruits: rounded, three part barriers on a 2 cm dropping stalk about 8mm, shiny red turning through red to blackish purple; stones obconic 3 seeds inside.

Uses

Rhamnus Prinoides is an indispensable plant for rural community. It is a multipurpose plant suited to marginal land. can be used for soil and water conservation on very steep slopes and also Tire wood and medicine. The roots are used to purify the blood. Most importantly, the leaves stems and branch lets are used to add flavors to the local drinks of “Tella” and “Tej” brewed from fermented barley, sorghum, finger millet, honey and sugar. It is widely sold in local markets everywhere throughout the country. The demand of this cash crop is very high, so that it is the best cash crop for the livelihood of local poor farmers.

Source: Ethiopian Agricultural Research organization Forestry Research Center