Databases
As we continue to work preparing the IAFN plant database for browsing online, we will use this space to share some useful plant databases that already exist. Databases, along with creativity, community consultation and support, and observation of local ecology, are an invaluable tool during the design process. Draw on the vast diversity of possible plants to discover species that meet your particular ecological, nutritional, medicinal, commercial needs.
The NTFP-EP
database
Is a collection of non-timber forest products from the six countries where NTFP-EP works: Cambodia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam.
Food Plants
International
A database of food plants from around the world with more than 26,000 entries. The FPI database was founded with the intention of helping people around the world benefit from nature’s richness.
Agroforestree Database (World Agroforestry Centre):
A database of food plants from around the world with more than 26,000 entries. The FPI database was founded with the intention of helping people around the world benefit from nature’s richness.
Rainforest Rescue International Database
Rainforest Rescue International Database A database designed for application in analog forestry from our partners at RRI.
PROTA4U (Plant Resources of Tropical Africa)
PROTA4U draws on many databases to provide thorough information on useful tropical plants. Many profiles are presented in English and French.
Ecocrop
(FAO)
Features a great search function to find species based on specific environmental conditions and/or uses, for regions worldwide.
Apios Institute Wiki
Useful for exploring market opportunities. Contains a directory of hundreds of African natural products currently being marketed, as well as stakeholders throughout the supply chain.
NaturallyAfrican
Useful for exploring market opportunities. Contains a directory of hundreds of African natural products currently being marketed, as well as stakeholders throughout the supply chain.
Traditional Tree Initiative
Detailed profiles of trees traditionally cultivated in Pacific islands, many of which are also distributed throughout the tropics. Good information on cultivation and intercropping. Includes a species selection table outlining uses and habitats.
Plants for a Future
A comprehensive and constantly growing database of edible or otherwise useful plants for temperate climates, currently containing over 7000 species. Well referenced. As well, 1500 species have been tested at their experimental site in England.