Origin and Common Names
Butyrospermum mangifolium (Pierre ex A.Chev.) A.Chev., commonly known as the African butter tree, is a plant species native to West and Central Africa. It grows in countries such as Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Togo. It is also found in some parts of South America, such as Brazil, Guyana, and Suriname.General Appearance
This evergreen tree can grow up to 20 meters tall, with a trunk that can reach a diameter of 60 centimeters. The leaves are large, ovate, and glossy, with a length of up to 45 centimeters and a width of up to 25 centimeters. The flowers are small and yellowish, and they grow in clusters. The fruits are large capsules that can be up to 10 centimeters long, containing numerous seeds surrounded by a white, edible pulp.Uses
The African butter tree has several uses, especially in Africa, where it is regarded as a valuable plant. The seeds of the tree are the source of shea butter, a fatty substance widely used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Shea butter is known for its moisturizing and healing properties and is used to treat various skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne. In addition, shea butter is used in hair care products, as it is said to promote hair growth and prevent hair breakage. The leaves of the African butter tree are also used for medicinal purposes. They are believed to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties and are used to treat headaches, arthritis, and fever. The bark of the tree is also used as a traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as diarrhea, dysentery, and respiratory infections. Furthermore, the wood of the African butter tree is used for making furniture, tools, and musical instruments. The tree is also planted as an ornamental tree, owing to its attractive appearance and hardiness.Light Requirements
The Butyrospermum mangifolium plant thrives best in full sunlight, but it can also tolerate some partial shade. Therefore, it should be grown in an area receiving at least six hours of sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
The Butyrospermum mangifolium plant can adapt to a wide range of temperatures, but it grows optimally at temperatures between 25 and 35°C (77-95°F). During the colder months, a minimum temperature of 15°C (59°F) is recommended to prevent damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
The Butyrospermum mangifolium plant prefers well-draining, sandy loam soil with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. It is important to note that this plant is highly sensitive to waterlogging and cannot tolerate soils that retain too much moisture. Adding organic matter such as compost can benefit the growth and development of the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Butyrospermum mangifolium, also known as Shea butter tree, can be cultivated in both tropical and subtropical regions. The ideal growing temperature is between 18°C and 35°C. The plant can grow in various soil types, but it thrives in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. It requires plenty of sunlight and a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. The tree can be propagated by seeds or vegetative methods such as stem cuttings and grafting.
Watering Needs
The Shea butter tree requires moderate watering, and its water needs vary depending on the climatic conditions. During the dry season, the plant needs frequent watering, but during the rainy season, little watering is required. Withholding water for an extended period may lead to wilting and yellowing of the leaves. It is advisable to plant the tree in well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging, which may lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilization is crucial for the Shea butter tree to grow and produce high-quality nuts. The plant requires regular application of organic and inorganic fertilizers. Nitrogen-rich fertilizers are ideal during the early stages, while phosphorus and potassium-rich fertilizers are ideal during the flowering and fruiting stages. Lime can also be applied to increase the soil pH to the ideal range.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for the healthy growth and development of the Shea butter tree. It helps to control the growth of the tree, eliminate unproductive branches, and increase nut yield. Pruning should be done during the dormant season, mainly in winter, to avoid disrupting the tree's growth cycle. The ideal branches to prune include the dead, diseased, and crossing branches. Over-pruning the tree may lead to stunted growth and low nut yield.
Propagation of Butyrospermum mangifolium
Butryospermum mangifolium or African shea butter is an important economic crop that is propagated mainly by seedlings or cuttings. The propagation method used often depends on the purpose of cultivation.
Propagation by Seedlings
The seeds of Butyrospermum mangifolium have a shell that is hard and impenetrable to water. To germinate the seeds, they should be soaked in water for at least 3 days, or until the shell is softened. After soaking, the seeds are planted in nutrient-rich soil in a shaded area. It is important to maintain a moist soil during the germination period, which usually lasts for 1 to 2 weeks. Once the seedlings have developed a few leaves, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Propagation by Cuttings
The propagation of Butyrospermum mangifolium by cuttings is usually done when a farmer wants to ensure that the new tree will produce fruits with the same characteristics as the parent tree. The cuttings should be taken from healthy and mature trees during the dormant season, which is usually after the harvesting period. The cuttings should be from the semi-hard wood of the tree and should be about 20-30 cm long. Before planting, the bottom of the cutting should be dipped in a rooting hormone and planted firmly in nutrient-rich soil. The cuttings are then placed in a shaded area and watered regularly until roots have developed, which can take up to 6 months. When the new tree has established roots, it can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Butyrospermum mangifolium
Butyrospermum mangifolium (Pierre ex A.Chev.) A.Chev., commonly known as Shea butter tree, is a valuable plant that produces edible and medicinal oil. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to diseases and pest attacks that can affect its growth, productivity, and quality. Understanding the common diseases and pests that affect the Shea butter tree and implementing effective management measures can help prevent losses and ensure optimal yield.
Common Diseases
Shea anthracnose: This is a fungal disease caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides that affects the leaves, fruits, and seeds of the Shea butter tree. It causes small spots on the leaves, which can spread and merge to form large necrotic areas. The affected fruits can also develop sunken dark spots, which can lead to rotting. To manage this disease, it is recommended to prune off the affected branches, and prevent the plant from getting wet by avoiding overhead irrigation. Applying fungicides such as copper-based sprays can also help control the spread of the disease.
Shea butter fruit rot: This is another fungal disease caused by Phomopsis sp. that mostly affects ripe and overripe Shea fruits. The disease causes the fruits to rot and develop brownish spots, and eventually, they can drop from the tree prematurely. To manage this disease, it is vital to keep the area around the tree clean, avoid overcropping, and remove and destroy the infected fruits. Fungicide application may also be effective in controlling the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
Shea fruit borers: These are a group of insects that infest the Shea fruits and cause extensive damage. The most common borers include the fruit moth (Etiella zinckenella), the banana moth (Opogona sacchari), and the red-headed borer (Palpares sp.). The borers can cause premature fruit drop, fruit rot, and yield losses. To manage these pests, it is necessary to remove and destroy the infected and fallen fruits, maintain proper sanitation, and use chemical control methods such as insecticides and pheromone traps.
Shea lace bug: This is a sucking insect that damages the leaves of the Shea butter tree by creating brownish dots and whitish patches on them. A heavy infestation can cause defoliation and hinder plant growth. To manage this pest, it is necessary to avoid over-fertilization of the plant, maintain proper sanitation and hygiene, and use insecticides such as neem oil or pyrethrin sprays.
In conclusion, managing diseases and pests that affect the Shea butter tree is crucial for optimal plant growth and fruit production. A combination of preventive measures, such as maintaining proper sanitation, regular pruning, and appropriate use of chemical control methods, can help control the spread of diseases and pests.
