Neglected and underutilized species are those useful plants grown essentially in their centres of origin and primary distribution by traditional farmers where they are still important for subsistence of local communities. Some of these species may be widely distributed around the world but tend to occupy special niches in the local ecology and in local production as well as consumption patterns. Despite the facts that such crops continue to be maintained by sociocultural preferences and ways of utilization, they remain scantly documented and often neglected by formal research and investments for the more agronomic robust and commercially competitive introduced few crops in the same agroecosystem. The NUS are sometimes described as minor crops in some quarters because they are regarded as less important than the staple crops and cash crops in terms of global output and market value. However, from the standpoint of rural and semi-urban poor who rely on many of these species for their food security, nutrition and incomes, the NUS are hardly minor.

This special issue is to contribute to the documentation and dissemination of advanced research in the areas of neglected and underutilized species cultivation, conservation and commercialization of value-added products. Original research and review papers are solicited in any aspect of NUS with particular focus on African indigenous and wild fruits, nuts, spices and vegetables.

Aim and scope:

1. Propagation and nursery management of NUS
2. Seed production and early seedling study of NUS
3. Ethnobotany of NUS in African sub-regions
4. Cultivation and improved agronomic practices of NUS
5. Conservation and plant protection
6. African traditional vegetables and spices
7. African indigenous fruits and nuts
8. Harvesting, Post-harvest handling, storage and processing NUS
9. Value addition and commercialization of NUS
10. Extension services and nutrition of NUS.