Several recent phylogenetic studies have shown that Schefflera is clearly polyphyletic, and that the Asian species belong to a single, well-supported, morphologically coherent clade. The name Schefflera will ultimately have to be restricted to a small group of species from the SW Pacific, while the Asian species will have to be transferred to one or more other genera[].

Common Name:

General Information

Schefflera volkensii is a plant that can grow as a spreading shrub; as a tree 24 - 30 metres tall; or can adopt a more climbing habit. It sometimes grows as an epiphyte upon the branches of other trees[].
The tree is harvested from the wild for local use as a medicine and source of wood. It is sometimes grown to protect the soil and to provide shade in coffee planttions; with its majestic form it can beautifully grace gardens and avenues[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

Range

East tropical Africa - Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania.

Habitat

Wet or dry upland forest, in Hagenia abyssinica woodland associated with Hypericum revolutum, Afrocrania volkensii and Erica arborea, or in the bamboo (Arundinaria alpina) zone; at elevations from 1,500 - 3,230 metres[]..

Properties

Medicinal Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Tree
Height	15.00 m
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

The tree often needs support if it is to grow straight[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

The resin (gum?) from the bark is mixed with honey and used as remedy for coughs, lung complications and colds[, ].

The leaves are used in the treatment of liver problems[].

Agroforestry Uses:

The plant offers protection to surrounding soil from water erosion[].
The tree can be grown with a range of crops underneath because it has a high and light crown that lets in plenty of light and its litter makes a good mulching material[]. It is used as a shade tree in coffee plantations[].

Other Uses

A gum obtained from the tree has medicinal uses[].

The wood can be used for a number of general purposes[].
The wood yields a good quality fuel and is used for making charcoal[, ].

Propagation

Seed -

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