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Group:
Eudicot
Estimated genome size:
Up to 18 m tall
Size:
Up to 18 m tall
Distribution:
The species is native to large parts of sub-Saharan Africa (including, but not limited to South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe). In South Africa, it is found in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu Natal, North West and some parts of Northern and Eastern Cape.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
86.86 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
17.18 kilobases
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Genome Length:
0.39 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
98.8% [S: 97.4%, D: 1.4%]
Importance:
Sclerocarya birrea is an economically and culturally important African tree, valued for products such as Amarula Cream Liqueur, cosmetic oil, and its traditional medicinal uses, while also supporting rural livelihoods. Its drought tolerant and deep rooting system make it important in agroforestry and ecosystem resilience. Sequencing its genome will improve understanding of its biology, support conservation and breeding efforts, and enhance sustainable commercial development.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Prof. Eshchar Mizrachi
University of Pretoria
Group:
Monocot
Estimated genome size:
Size:
25 - 30 cm
Distribution:
The Yellow Star occurs in open grassland and woodland and is widespread in the eastern summer rainfall provinces of South Africa. It also occurs in Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
201.63 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
16.05 kilobases
Assembly N50:
47 511.29 kilobases
Contig number:
1 489
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
4.96 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.8% [S: 0.5%, D: 99.3%]
BUSCO database:
viridiplantae
Hypoxis hemerocallidea
Yellow Star
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Importance:
The species is a widely used medicinal plant in South Africa, well known for its immune-boosting properties. The rootstock is used to treat tuberculosis, urinary tract infections, prostate issues, rheumatoid arthritis and depression. Key compounds include hypoxoside, which converts to rooperol and sitosterol. However, raw forms contain toxic compounds. The species is heavily harvested, with unsustainable trade and habitat loss threatening the wild population. Conservation efforts are needed to protect this valuable species.
Date Published:
2025-10-28
Photo credit:
© A. Götze
Flora
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