Description

With a distinctive flat crown that spreads horizontally, the Terminalia Ivorensis (Black Afara) draws quite a lot of attention. This Western African native is cataloged as a large deciduous tree. Reaching an average maximum height of 98 ft and this fast-growing tree has a preference for light, moist, sandy, and heavy clay well-drained soils, and full sun.  

Structure, Bark and Foliage  

Additionally, the Terminalia Ivorensis (Black Afara) has an exceptional straight bole and small buttressed base which is usually branchless for up to 30(–35) mt. While the trunk is straight and cylindrical, and sometimes slightly fluted or angular near the base. With a 120(–170) cm diameter, that feature a small and thick buttress up to 1 m high. The bark appears to be smooth and gray in young trees, but with age, it turns dark brown to black with deep longitudinal furrows. 

Also, branches extend horizontally giving it that characteristic flattened shape. Young twigs are rusty-brown. And the leaves arrangement form attractive spirals and clusters near branch ends, adding to the shape of the tree. Furthermore, the leaves on the Terminalia Ivorensis (Black Afara)are simple and entire with absent stipules and a 7–15 (–20) mm long petiole. Shaped as slender blades of 5–15 cm × 2.5–5(–6.5) cm and featuring a leathery, smooth veined texture. One of the most appealing traits is the tree’s stratification.

Equally important, the whitish Inflorescences on the Terminalia Ivorensis (Black Afara)  grow in axillary spikes, measuring  7–15 cm long. And the 5 petal flowers are bisexual or male, pale yellow with no stamens. Moreover, fruits are winged and somewhat variable. Elongated, narrow, and covered with very short reddish or orange-brown hairs.  

Landscape Applications

The Terminalia Ivorensis (Black Afara) definitely has a powerful presence and thanks to its size it makes a great accent tree for large parks and lawns. Its appealing foliage and flattened crown make this tree stand out in any landscape design. 

Other Common Names:

Black Ivory Coast, Ivory Coast Almond, Idigbo, Framire, and Emire