Family: Malvaceae
Scientific name: Cola nitida
Common name: Kola nut
Origin: Niger delta
The Cola tree or Kola tree can sometimes be seen as an animation in the commercials of Coca Cola, and the Coca Cola we all know actually finds its origin in the kola nut. Cola was made from the nuts of this plant. And it’s quite possible Coca Cola still uses the cola tree for its secret recipe. However, most of the colouring and flavouring agents are now synthesized. Kola nuts have a bitter taste which becomes sweeter when chewing, and are consumed in Africa to stimulate feelings of happiness and cheerfulness. They also help suppressing hunger.
It’s a tropical tree from western Africa, but it also performs well as a houseplant. The seeds are very rare and have a short shell life, which is why the species may have a long delivery duration. But it’s really worth the waiting.
Sowing description: Sow the big seeds in sowing mix at 25 degrees Celcius. Keep the soil constantly moist with glas or cling film.
Sowing time: Whole year
Difficulty: Intermediate
Minimum temperature: 15 degrees Celcius
Photo 1: Michael Hermann (CCA-3.0 Wikipedia)
