Introduction. Black plum (Vitex
doniana) is an indigenous fruit tree species important
for the livelihoods of rural populations. Currently, there is renewed
national and international interest in black plum, and it has emerged
as a priority species for domestication in Africa. The present work
addressed farmers’ indigenous knowledge of the use and management
of the species among different socio-cultural groups in Benin, taking
into account gender differences. The specific objective of this
work was to study the knowledge, uses, local gathering practices and
management systems of V. doniana that are part
of the traditions of the communities in Southern Benin. Materials
and methods. A total of 150 participants randomly selected from
three socio-cultural groups provided survey responses. Information collected
mainly referred to the motivation of respondents to conserve black
plum trees on their land, the local uses and the management practices
to improve the regeneration and production of the black plum. Results
and discussion. The study showed that knowledge of black plum
is well distributed in the community. However, people have different
interests in using black plum and there is variable knowledge of
use and management practices. The food and medicinal categories
were the most important uses. There were no significant differences
in knowledge of the management and utility of black plum between
men and women, or across socio-cultural groups. Conclusion. Given
its value to the communities in southern Benin, black plum should be
prioritized for domestication.