Bitter Kola

Garcinia kola, Clusiaceae

Zones

10–12

Layer

Canopy

Lifespan

Perennial

Growth

Slow

Guild Roles

ProducerShade ProviderBeneficial Insect HabitatPollinator Attractor

Growing Conditions

Sun

Partial Shade (preferred)

Water

High (established)High (fruiting)High (seedling)

Soil pH

5 – 6.5

Tolerances

Drought

Frost

Heat

Pest Resistance

Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

White SirisAlbizia procera

Nitrogen FixationShade Provision

African Oil Bean TreePentaclethra macrophylla

Nitrogen FixationNurse Plant

Calabash NutmegMonodora myristica

Pollinator SharingBeneficial Insect Habitat

Purple TephrosiaTephrosia purpurea

Nitrogen Fixation

Spiked PepperPiper aduncum

Pest Deterrent

Antagonistic Plants

Upas TreeAntiaris toxicaria

Upas tree produces highly toxic latex containing cardiac glycosides that can inhibit growth of nearby plants

Uses

Functions

Medicinal ProductionTimberShade CreationBiodiversity SupportCultural Significance

Edible Parts

Seeds

Medicinal Uses

Respiratory AilmentsDigestive DisordersAntimicrobialAntioxidantLiver Protection

Common Questions

What zones does Bitter Kola grow in?

Bitter Kola grows in USDA hardiness zones 10 through 12.

What are good companion plants for Bitter Kola?

Good companions for Bitter Kola include White Siris, African Oil Bean Tree, Calabash Nutmeg, Purple Tephrosia, Spiked Pepper.

Design guilds with Bitter Kola and see companion relationships visually.

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