Maclura africana belongs to the Moraceae family. It is commonly known as the mulberry and fig family of the rose order (Rosales). With approximately 40 genera and 1 000 species of deciduous or evergreen trees and shrubs found primarily in tropical and subtropical regions. Plants in this family feature milky latex, alternate or opposite leaves, and small, inconspicuous, petalless male or female flowers, clustered into frequently complex inflorescences. Several species have compound fruits made up of the numerous fruits from the many blooms in the inflorescence that become entwined. For example, figs (Ficus species) have an inflorescence that is a hollow, vase-like receptacle containing several tiny flowers. Breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis), Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) and Mulberries (Morus species) have fruits that are more similar to those of Maclura, where each flower produces a nutlet (achene) that is embedded in pulp and they are all held together in the compound fruit.

With 10 accepted species, the genus Maclura has representatives in Asia, South West Pacific, North and South America as well as Africa. Maclura africana is the only species found in Africa. The genus is named after Scottish-born American geologist and educational reformer William Maclure (1763-1840). For 22 years, he presided over the American Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia. Maclure made significant contributions to his field, including the creation of the first true geological map of any part of North America, and was an outspoken supporter of universal education, particularly for women.