Screening of multipurpose tree and shrub species for agroforestry in the humid lowlands of Cameroon

Abstract

A field screening trial of ten exotic multipurpose trees and shrubs was initiated in August 1987 in Yaounde, Cameroon. The objective of the study was to identify adaptable species with desirable traits that could be used for agroforestry systems recommended for the humid lowlands of Cameroon. The species included were Acacia auriculiformis, Acacia mangium, Calliandra calothyrus, Cassia javanica, Cassiaa siamea, Gliricidia sepium, Leucaena leucocephala, Paraserianthes falcataria, Sesbania grandiflora and Sesbania sesban. Results suggested that the two Sesbania species were poorly adapted to the region (based on survival rate). P. falcataria and Calliandra calothyrsus were among the fastest growing species and their foliage had high nutrient values, making them promising candidates for agroforestry technologies aimed at improving soil fertility. However, the coppicing ability of P. falcataria was below average. Primary growth of the Acacia species was relatively high, but they were poor coppicers. They could be useful as shade trees on cocoa or coffee farms, but are not suitable for hedgerow intercropping.