Cola acuminata KOLA / COLA NUT (2 seeds)

Kola Nut seeds, also known as Cola acuminata in Latin, is an exotic plant measuring 3 to 5 meters in height. Native to Africa, it belongs to the Malvaceae family. Its growth is relatively fast.

The flowers are large and grouped in cymes. Each flower is composed of five white petals. These flowers are hermaphroditic, meaning they possess both male and female reproductive organs. Flowering generally takes place during the wet season, and the blossoms release a pleasant fragrance.

Its fruits are pods (or husks) that contain the seeds. They are generally oblong in shape and measure approximately 10 to 15 cm long.

Fresh kola nut seeds are large, flat, and oval, and can be red or white in color. They do not store for long because they dry out very quickly and lose their germinative power. To preserve them, it is recommended to keep them in a warm environment inside moist sphagnum moss.

- Uses:

Botany and Composition

The species Cola nitida and Cola acuminata are globally renowned for the natural richness of their seeds.
These specific components give the nut its characteristic bitter flavor, highly sought after for its aromatic qualities.
A historical ingredient behind the creation of the most famous sodas, the cola nut remains a key milestone in the history of traditional beverages and global ethnobotany.

Social Symbolism and Hospitality in West Africa

This seed is a major emblem of African ethnobotany. In West Africa, sharing the cola nut is an act symbolizing respect, fraternity, and hospitality.
Used during social ceremonies, it seals alliances and strengthens community ties, affirming its role as an ancestral vector of social cohesion.

- Germination and Sowing of Seeds:

• The ideal period to sow Cola is when temperatures are sufficiently warm both day and night; sowing is preferably carried out in June and July.
• Start by germinating the seeds in pre-moistened sphagnum moss using the "smothering" method (airtight/enclosed) at a temperature near 30°C.
• Germination takes about 2 to 4 weeks.
• Once germinated, plant them in peat pots, covering only half of the seed, with the sprout facing downward.
• Water copiously.
• Leave the pots in a greenhouse until the stem appears, which takes only a few days.

- Type of Earth:

It grows in soil very rich in organic matter. It is advisable to use an acidic pH substrate and to ensure good drainage at the bottom of the pot.

- Humidity:

Its water requirement is high; it is necessary to keep the substrate always moist but never waterlogged.

- Light:

It must be placed in a location with plenty of bright light. Regarding artificial lighting, HPS (High-Pressure Sodium) or MH (Metal Halide) bulbs are preferred.

- Temperatures:

As it is a tropical plant, it must be grown indoors. Its growth is rapid when the temperature ranges between 25°C and 35°C.

This article was written by Julien on 07/26/2026.