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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:
Eudicot
Estimated genome size:
Size:
2 meters
Distribution:
Plectranthus zuluensis occurs from the northern parts of the Eastern Cape through the coastal region of KwaZulu-Natal to southern Swaziland. It grows along stream banks and in river gorges in shady or semi-shady areas on the margins of semi-coastal, subtropical forests.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
11.03 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
11.64 kilobases
Assembly N50:
172.11 kilobases
Contig number:
4 569
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Flye
Genome Length:
0.48 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
97.1% [S: 73.6%, D: 23.5%]
BUSCO database:
viridiplantae
Plectranthus zuluensis
Zulu spurflower
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Importance:
The Zulu spurflower is cultivated locally and internationally as a flowering ornamental plant, valued for its velvety foliage and blue to mauve blooms.
Date Published:
2026-03-27
Photo credit:
© P. Candotti
Flora
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