Kolatier

The Kolatier is a large tree about 20 meters long, native to West Africa. It is also widely cultivated for its so-called "Kola nuts" seeds. This name commonly refers to seeds that do not have integument. These nuts are softened and crushed for use in dye baths. The Kolatier is characterized by a straight trunk with dark, rough bark and rounded crowns. Dark green, the leaves of the Kolatier are glabrous, petiolated and alternate with an oval lanceolate blade. The flowers of this tree are in the form of large white clusters. Each has a diameter of about 2 cm. Kolatier's female flowers produce fruit. Called Cabosse, they are green first, then become brown as they mature.