Balanites rotundifolia

Balanites rotundifolia occurs in arid tree savanna or scrub; semi-desert scrub; deciduous bushland and open woodland. It is often found growing in thin soils over lava or near rivers; it can be the dominant species in some habitats such as raised beaches over sandstones.^[4] Fruiting in Kenya occurs in February and in October and November.^[2] Often grows in association with Acacia, Commiphora or Combretum in arid areas.^[3] The flowers are pollinated by bees.^[4]

The ripe fruit has an edible and sweet pulp, the ripe fruits are either picked from the tree or gathered from the ground. The fruits are eaten as a snack, particularly by herdsmen.^[4] The seeds are edible if they are boiled for 3–4 hours, they are normally eaten with milk. The fruit pulp is fermented to make a local brew.^[2]

The wood is used to smoke food for flavour and to sterilise milk containers.^[2]

Balanites rotundifolia is the source of a gum resin called Hanjigoad, which is used for chewing and is collected as tears or globular pieces.^[5]

The wood is used as firewood and to make charcoal. It is fashioned into poles, tool handles, carvings, utensils (e.g. head rests, wooden spoons and combs).^[2]

The leaves and shoots provide fodder for domestic animals in very arid areas.^[3]

It is used for live fencing and the cut branches are used to make fences, it is also planted in soil conservation projects.^[2] There are no known medicinal applications.^[4]