Origin of Butyrospermum paradoxum (Gaertner f.) Hepper ssp. parkii (G. Don) Hepper
Butyrospermum paradoxum (Gaertner f.) Hepper ssp. parkii (G. Don) Hepper, commonly known as the African butter tree or shea tree, is a plant species that is native to Africa. The tree is distributed throughout the savannah regions of West Africa, ranging from Senegal to Uganda and Tanzania.
Common Names
The shea tree is known by many different names in Africa, depending on the local dialect. Some of the common names include karité (French), ori (Yoruba), nkuto (Twi), and nku (Igbo).
Uses
The shea tree is highly valued for its butter, which is extracted from the kernel of its fruit. Shea butter has been used traditionally in Africa for many different purposes, including as a cooking oil, skin moisturizer, and hair conditioner. In recent years, shea butter has become increasingly popular in the cosmetics industry, where it is used as an ingredient in many skincare and haircare products.
In addition to its practical uses, the shea tree is also of cultural and economic importance to many African communities. Women in particular are involved in the production and sale of shea butter, which is often used to generate income for their families.
General Appearance
The shea tree is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 20 meters in height. The tree has a thick, gray-brown bark and large, green leaves that are alternate and oval-shaped. The fruit of the shea tree is a round, green drupe that turns yellow as it ripens. Within the fruit is a hard, brown kernel that contains the shea butter. The kernels are removed, dried, and then crushed to extract the butter.
The shea tree is an important species in the African savannah ecosystem, providing habitat and food for many different species of birds and animals.
Light Requirements
Butyrospermum paradoxum ssp. parkii thrives in areas with high exposure to sunlight. It requires, at the very least, partial exposure to sunlight for proper growth. For best results, the plant should be placed in direct sunlight for a minimum of six hours every day.
Temperature Requirements
The Butyrospermum paradoxum ssp. parkii requires warm to hot temperatures for optimal growth. The ideal temperature range for the plant to thrive is between 25 degrees Celsius and 35 degrees Celsius. However, the plant can withstand temperatures as low as 10 degrees Celsius and as high as 45 degrees Celsius.
Soil Requirements
The Butyrospermum paradoxum ssp. parkii prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.5. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils. However, the soil should be able to retain some moisture without becoming waterlogged. Fertilizers can be added every once in a while to improve the soil's quality and enhance plant growth.
Cultivation Methods
Butyrospermum paradoxum (Gaertner f.) Hepper ssp. parkii (G. Don) Hepper, commonly known as Shea butter tree, is a tropical tree primarily found in the African savannah. It requires a tropical climate with a temperature range of 25–30°C (77-86°F) and grows well in sandy-clayey soils with good drainage. The tree can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or grafting. For the best results, place the seeds in a warm and damp spot before planting them in the soil. If you are using cuttings, keep them in a moist and shady spot until they grow roots.
Watering Needs
Shea butter tree requires a consistent supply of moisture, especially during the early stages of growth. Young plants need to be watered frequently and deeply (at least once a week) to ensure sufficient hydration. However, the frequency should be reduced once the tree establishes itself. Overwatering may cause root rot, so ensure that the soil dries slightly between watering sessions. During the dry season, it is recommended that the tree is watered often to keep the soil moist and the tree healthy.
Fertilization
Shea butter tree does not require a lot of fertilizer as it is not a heavy feeder. However, you can add compost or organic matter to the soil to improve its fertility and texture. Fertilize the tree annually with balanced nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus fertilizer during the growing season. Over-fertilization can cause the tree to produce an excessive amount of foliage and compromise the quality of the fruit.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential maintenance practice for Shea butter trees. It helps in shaping the tree, removing dead or diseased branches, and preventing overcrowding. The best time to prune is during the dry season when the tree is dormant. Avoid pruning during the wet season as it may encourage the spread of diseases. When pruning, use sharp and sterile tools to avoid damaging the tree, and cut at an angle to prevent water accumulation on the cuts.
Propagation of Butyrospermum paradoxum (Gaertner f.) Hepper ssp. parkii (G. Don) Hepper
Butyrospermum paradoxum (Gaertner f.) Hepper ssp. parkii (G. Don) Hepper, commonly known as Shea tree, is a dioecious, perennial plant native to Africa. Propagation of Shea tree is important to maintain a sustainable supply of its nut which is known for its buttery properties and use in cosmetics and food preparation. The following are the propagation methods for Shea tree:
Seed Propagation
Shea tree is commonly propagated through seeds collected from mature fruits. It is important to use fresh seeds, as they have a high germination rate. Seeds collected from the ground or of low quality may have a lower germination rate. Before planting, the seeds should be cleaned and soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the shell. The seeds can then be sown directly in the field or in seedbeds. Germination typically occurs within 10 to 15 days.
Cutting Propagation
Shea tree can also be propagated using cuttings. Softwood cuttings are usually taken from young trees during the rainy season. The cuttings should be 15-20 cm long and take from the upper part of branches. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting dipped in rooting hormone. The cuttings can then be planted in well-draining soil and should be kept moist. It may take up to 3 months for the cutting to root.
Air Layering
Air layering is another propagation method suitable for Shea tree. This method is usually done during the rainy season. Select a healthy branch where the stem diameter is at least 2 cm. Make a small cut on the bark of the branch, scrape off a thin layer of the bark and apply rooting hormone. Surround the cut area with damp soil or sphagnum moss, and wrap it with plastic. After 2 to 3 months, roots should start to grow from the cut area. Once roots are present, cut the branch below the roots and plant it in a well-draining soil mixture.
Disease Management
Butyrospermum paradoxum (Gaertner f.) Hepper ssp. parkii (G. Don) Hepper, commonly known as shea butter tree, is vulnerable to various fungal diseases. One of the most common diseases affecting the plant is stem canker caused by Diaporthe phaseolorum. This fungal disease causes the trees to develop canker on their trunks and branches, which can lead to dieback. To manage this disease, it is essential to prune the infected parts of the tree and destroy them immediately to prevent the spread of the disease.
Another fungal disease that affects the shea butter tree is powdery mildew caused by Oidium butelae. This disease is characterized by a white or gray powdery substance on leaves, stems, and flowers. It can cause stunted growth, leaf drop, and flower abortion. To manage this disease, it is crucial to provide adequate spacing between plants to encourage good air circulation and remove infected plant parts to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
The shea butter tree can also be attacked by several insect pests, including scale insects, mealybugs, aphids, and caterpillars. Scale insects and mealybugs suck sap from the plants, leading to wilting and stunted growth. Aphids, on the other hand, can cause considerable damage to the tree by feeding on young shoots, leaves, and flowers.
Caterpillars are another notorious pest that can attack shea butter trees, causing defoliation and reduced tree vigor. To manage these pests, it is essential to monitor regularly for any sign of infestation. Insecticide sprays can be applied if the population is high enough to cause damage. However, it is crucial to use the appropriate pesticide and apply it according to the manufacturer's instructions to avoid harming the plant or the environment.
In conclusion, managing diseases and pests in Butyrospermum paradoxum (Gaertner f.) Hepper ssp. Parkii (G. Don) Hepper is essential to maintain healthy and productive trees. Effective management practices involve regular monitoring, proper cultural practices, and timely application of appropriate chemical control measures.
