African Frankincense

Basic Information

Common Name: African Frankincense
Scientific Name: Boswellia papyrifera
Native Habitat: Dry woodlands and savannas of Northeast Africa, specifically Ethiopia, Eritrea, Sudan, and extending into some parts of West Africa like Nigeria and Mali.

History / Discovery / Cultivator

The history of frankincense, the aromatic resin harvested from Boswellia trees, stretches back millennia, deeply intertwined with ancient civilizations and global trade routes. Boswellia papyrifera, commonly known as African Frankincense or Sudanese Frankincense, is one of the principal species contributing to this ancient commodity, alongside better-known counterparts like Boswellia sacra from the Arabian Peninsula and Somalia. While the “discovery” in a formal scientific sense is relatively modern, the plant’s existence and its valuable yield were known and utilized by indigenous peoples for thousands of years before recorded history.

The earliest evidence of frankincense trade dates back over 5,000 years to the Neolithic period, with artifacts suggesting trade between the Arabian Peninsula and the Fertile Crescent. However, the specific use of Boswellia papyrifera likely originated within its native range in Northeast Africa. Ancient Egyptian texts and artifacts depict scenes related to frankincense, often linking it to religious ceremonies, embalming practices, and perfumery. Expeditions, such as the one sent by Queen Hatshepsut to the Land of Punt (believed to be in modern-day Eritrea/Ethiopia/Somalia) around 1479 BC, sought precious commodities including frankincense and myrrh trees, suggesting active cultivation or at least management of wild stands in these regions even then.

The resin from Boswellia papyrifera became a vital component of the ancient frankincense trade routes that crisscrossed the Arabian Peninsula and extended into the Mediterranean world. It was transported north through overland routes passing through areas like Meroë in Sudan and south towards ports on the Red Sea and Indian Ocean. While the precise cultivation practices of B. papyrifera by ancient peoples aren’t as thoroughly documented as, say, grain farming, it is clear that specific techniques for tapping the trees to extract resin were developed and refined over generations. This involved making incisions into the bark, allowing the milky sap to bleed out and harden into resin, which was then collected. This practice required intimate knowledge of the trees’ physiology and the optimal timing for tapping.

The trade of frankincense, including the resin from B. papyrifera, peaked during Roman times, where it was used extensively in temples, public ceremonies, and private homes. The demand fueled vast wealth for the kingdoms and tribes controlling the production and trade routes. In later periods, with the decline of the ancient trade routes and the rise of alternative aromatics, the global significance of frankincense waned somewhat, though its use persisted in religious contexts (Christian, Islamic, and Jewish traditions) and traditional medicine.

Today, Boswellia papyrifera resin remains an economically important product for communities in its native range. While large-scale plantations are less common, the collection of resin from wild or semi-cultivated trees continues, providing livelihoods. Scientific interest in the plant has also grown, focusing on the medicinal properties of its resin (boswellic acids) for conditions like inflammation and arthritis, bringing renewed attention to this ancient and historically significant plant species. The plant is also gaining popularity among collectors of caudiciform or pachycaul plants due to its unique appearance.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

Boswellia papyrifera has evolved remarkable adaptations to survive in the harsh, dry, and often rocky environments of Northeast African woodlands and savannas. One of its most notable adaptations is the production of frankincense resin. This sticky, aromatic substance serves multiple purposes: it helps seal wounds in the bark, protecting the tree from pests, diseases, and excessive water loss in its arid climate. The tree also possesses a thick, often peeling bark (hence “papyrifera”, meaning paper-bearing) which may offer some protection from fire and intense solar radiation. Its deciduous nature, shedding leaves during the dry season, is a crucial water-saving strategy, minimizing transpiration when water is scarce. The root system is adapted to efficiently capture moisture from infrequent rainfall and anchor the tree in thin, rocky soils. The development of a swollen trunk or caudex in some specimens acts as a water storage organ, further enhancing its drought resilience.

Propagation Methods

Propagation of Boswellia papyrifera is most commonly achieved through seed, though it can be challenging. Seeds require fresh viability and specific conditions, often benefiting from scarification (lightly scratching the hard seed coat) to aid germination. They should be sown in very well-draining soil mix and kept warm and lightly moist until germination occurs, which can be slow and erratic. Seed-grown plants are generally preferred as they develop the natural pachycaul/caudiciform shape over time. Stem cuttings are also possible but often more difficult to root successfully compared to many other plants. Cuttings should be allowed to callus over for several days before being placed in a gritty, dry rooting medium. Rooting hormones can sometimes improve success rates, but patience is key, and cuttings may not always develop the same trunk characteristics as seed-grown plants.

Toxicology

Unlike many popular houseplants, Boswellia papyrifera is generally considered non-toxic to humans and common household pets like cats and dogs. The resin extracted from the tree, frankincense, has a long history of use in traditional medicine, including ingestion for various ailments. While consuming large quantities of any plant material can potentially cause mild digestive upset, there is no known severe toxicity associated with this species. The primary interest in the plant from a human perspective is the beneficial anti-inflammatory properties of the boswellic acids found in the resin, rather than any toxic compounds.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Spider Mites (especially in low humidity environments)
• Mealybugs (can hide in crevices)
• Scale Insects

Diseases:

• Root Rot (most common problem, caused by overwatering and poor drainage)
• Fungal Leaf Spot (less common, usually due to excessive humidity or watering issues)

Other:

• Leaf Drop: Often caused by insufficient light, overwatering (root rot), underwatering (severe drought stress), or changes in environment (like moving indoors for winter).
• Lack of Growth: Usually due to insufficient light, temperatures too cold, or lack of water/nutrients during the active growing season.
• Soft/Mushy Trunk or Branches: A severe sign of root rot or stem rot due to excessive moisture.

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

Boswellia papyrifera is not typically considered ‘rare’ in the sense of being endangered in its native habitat, although unsustainable harvesting practices and habitat loss are concerns for Boswellia species generally. However, finding well-formed, mature specimens for cultivation can be less common than many typical succulents or caudiciform plants. Its slow growth rate, particularly when developing a substantial caudex, contributes to its perceived rarity in the horticultural trade. Successful propagation from seed can also be slow, adding to the time it takes to bring new plants to market.

Value:

The value of a Boswellia papyrifera specimen is primarily influenced by its age and form. Larger, older plants with a significantly swollen, well-developed caudex or attractive branching structure command higher prices than younger, seedling plants. The overall health and condition of the plant are also crucial; a plant with a firm trunk, healthy branching, and evidence of recent growth is more valuable. Provenance can also play a role for collectors, especially if the plant originated from a reputable grower known for quality specimens. Current trends in the succulent and caudiciform collector market can also influence demand and, consequently, value.