The WALA Plant Library
Shea Tree

Synonyms for Shea Tree: African Butter Tree, Shea Butter Tree, Shea Nut Tree, Karité
Scientific Name: Butyrospermum parkii
Family: Sapotaceae (Sapodilla Family)

Description:

In its native country it would probably be described as small: the gnarled shea tree which grows to a height of 10 to 15 m. The lactiferous tree with its leathery leaves does not flower until it is 20 years old and only reaches maximum productive capacity at the age of 50 years, then remaining fully productive for more than 100 years. The green plum-shaped fruits, which become brown when they ripen, have a diameter of up to 4 cm. With a fat content of 50 % the kernels (nuts) are a sought-after source of fat in their African homeland. The shea butter obtained from them now has its followers all over the world.