Iboga (Tabernanthe iboga) - fruit (with seeds)

Tabernanthe iboga - Fruits with seeds

Seed information

• Origin: Ghana/Gabon
• Harvesting the seeds: 2025
• Germination period: 4-8 weeks at 26-30 °C (requires warmth)
• Seeds per fruit: approx. 15-30 pieces - larger quantities on request!

Information on the species

• Family: Apocynaceae (dog poison plants)
• Synonyms: none in common use - accepted name Tabernanthe iboga Baill.
• Original origin: Central Africa (Gabon, Cameroon, Congo, Angola)
• Type of use: Ethnobotanical, spiritual and ornamental plant

General description 🌿

Tabernanthe iboga is an evergreen, tropical shrub from the Apocynaceae family, which is native to the rainforests of Central Africa. The plant produces glossy green, leathery leaves and eye-catching white to pink flowers. After successful pollination, elongated oval, orange-colored fruits develop, which contain 15 to 30 seeds. The ripe, naturally dried fruits are the most valuable form of seed, as they naturally protect the seeds and prolong their germination.
In its native habitat, the species reaches up to 2 m in height and thrives in humus-rich, evenly moist soil under tropical conditions. In Central European climates, it can be kept excellently as an indoor or greenhouse plant, where it prefers warmth, high humidity and constant light.

Cultivation & care 🌱

To germinate, remove the seeds from the fruit, gently clean and soak in lukewarm water for 24 hours. Then place flat in a permeable, moist, warm substrate (e.g. coco humus + perlite) and keep at a constant 26-30 °C. Even soil moisture and humidity promote germination. The germination period is between four and eight weeks. Young plants prefer semi-shady locations, constant warmth and indirect light. Later, they can grow into stately, bushy houseplants that stay green all year round and impress with their exotic appearance.

Use 🌸

Tabernanthe iboga has a deep spiritual and ritual significance in Central African culture, particularly in Gabon. In the Bwiti tradition, the plant is considered a sacred symbol of consciousness, memory and transition - it has been revered there for centuries in initiation rituals and healing ceremonies. Ethnobotanically, it is one of the most important „plants of the spirit“ in Africa, comparable to symbolic plants on other continents.
In the western world, the species is cultivated exclusively for botanical, ethnobotanical and decorative purposes. As a tropical houseplant or greenhouse plant, it fascinates with its dense growth, smooth leaves and orange-colored fruits, which are both decorative and seed-bearing. Due to its rarity, it is a sought-after collector's species among plant enthusiasts.

Worth knowing 📖

Tabernanthe iboga was described by French botanists in the 19th century and is still considered one of the most important ethnobotanical species in Africa. It symbolizes self-knowledge, protection and spiritual growth. In the traditional use of the Bwiti culture, it is closely associated with chants, drumming rituals and herbal medicine. Botanically, it is closely related to the Apocynaceae genera Voacanga and Tabernaemontana, which have similar tropical characteristics.
As an ornamental plant, iboga impresses with its evergreen, glossy foliage, white flowers and bright orange fruits. In modern ethnobotany, it symbolizes respect for indigenous knowledge and the balance between nature, spirit and man. Growing it requires patience, but is rewarded with a rare, highly symbolic plant - a real highlight for collectors and plant lovers.

😃 Free seeds with every order!