Vitellaria

Description

Vitellaria is a genus of flowering plants in the Sapotaceae family. The genus contains only one species, Vitellaria paradoxa, commonly known as the Shea Tree. The Shea Tree is native to West Africa, where it grows in the savannah and semi-arid regions. The tree is highly valued for its butter, which is extracted from the nuts of the tree. The butter is used in cosmetics and as a food source.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Shea Tree can grow up to 15 meters tall and has a dense, rounded crown. The bark is grayish-brown and fissured. The leaves are alternate, compound, and measure 8-15 cm in length. The flowers are greenish-yellow and are borne in axillary clusters. The fruit is a green, fleshy drupe, which contains a hard shell that encloses the nut. The nut has a thin, brittle shell and contains a white, oily kernel.

Care Guide

Water: The Shea Tree is drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering, especially during the growing season.Fertilization: Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer once a year in the early spring.Soil: The Shea Tree prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. Avoid planting in heavy clay soils.Sunlight: The Shea Tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The Shea Tree is hardy in USDA zones 9-12.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Shea Tree is relatively pest-free but can be susceptible to root rot and leaf spot diseases. Aphids and spider mites can also be a problem.

Habitat

The Shea Tree is native to West Africa, where it grows in the savannah and semi-arid regions. The tree is widely cultivated in Africa for the production of its butter.

Question and Answer

Q: How is Shea Butter extracted from the nuts?

A: The nuts are collected, dried, and then crushed to release the oil. The oil is then heated and filtered to remove impurities.

Q: What is Shea Butter used for?

A: Shea Butter is used in cosmetics as a moisturizer and in food as a cooking oil and ingredient in confectionery.

Q: Can the Shea Tree be grown outside of Africa?

A: Yes, the Shea Tree can be grown in tropical and subtropical regions around the world.

Q: Is the Shea Tree endangered?

A: The Shea Tree is not currently listed as endangered, but over-harvesting of the nuts has led to concerns about the sustainability of the butter industry.

Related Plants

• Chrysophyllum
• Manilkara
• Mimusops

References

• “Vitellaria paradoxa”. World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
• “Shea butter processing and its socio-economic importance in the Yendi District of Northern Ghana”. Journal of Applied Sciences and Environmental Management.
• “Shea Butter: An Ancient Beauty Secret”. National Geographic.