XVI International Botanical Congess

Prunus africana (African cherry), was once one of the most common tree species in the montane forests of Cameroon. The species is under pressure from deforestation and the harvest of its bark. About 30 years ago, bark extracts were shown to be effective in the treatment of benign prostatic hypertrophy and benign prostatic hyperplasia, increasing the demand for wild collected bark. The montane forests of Cameroon currently provide 60% of the world's supply of bark for this herbal product. One purpose of my research is to determine whether the current levels of this harvest are sustainable in Cameroon. Although Prunus africana has the ability to regenerate its bark, data show harvest has an effect on mortality. Trees harvested in 1997 have significantly reduced crown shadows due to crown die-back compared to unharvested trees. This results in reduced reproductive output which has implications for regeneration. Plots with various harvesting intensities also show different populations structures.