Bush Butter Tree
Dacryodes edulis
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Pl. 2B87 — Dacryodes edulis
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IOverview
Overview
The Bush Butter Tree, scientifically known as Dacryodes edulis, is a medium to large tree native to the moist and wet forests of Central Africa, including Angola, Cabinda, Cameroon, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and parts of Nigeria. This tree thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. It can grow up to 20 meters tall and is known for its edible fruit, which makes it a valuable resource in the region. The tree's distinctive feature lies in its ability to adapt to various soil types while providing sustenance through its fruit.
Quick answers
What is Bush Butter Tree?
The Bush Butter Tree, scientifically known as Dacryodes edulis, is a medium to large tree native to the moist and wet forests of Central Africa, including Angola, Cabinda, Cameroon, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and parts of Nigeria.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
The Bush Butter Tree thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist to wet soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows well in hardiness zones 11-12, making it suitable for tropical climates. This tree can reach a height of 20 meters and produces edible fruit. For optimal growth, ensure the soil remains consistently moist but avoid waterlogged conditions.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
11-12
Mature size
20.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Bush Butter Tree for the first time
8steps
Start with a young Bush Butter Tree for your first gardening experience.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Bush Butter Tree sapling, well-draining soil, and a large container or garden space.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather is warm and stable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a mix of light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soil. Ensure good drainage for moisture control.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling carefully to avoid damaging roots. Water thoroughly after planting.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in a partially shaded area to prevent sunburn.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Provide full or partial sun based on local conditions.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune young branches to shape the tree and remove dead or diseased parts as needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in direct full sun, neglecting regular pruning, using unsuitable soil types, and not providing enough space for growth.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:AdhesiveBiomassCosmeticDyeEssential OilFire starterLightingoilResinSoil conditionerWaterproofingLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
18 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
18 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 18 native
Asia3 regions
native (3)PhilippinesThailandVietnam
Africa6 regions
native (6)AngolaCameroonEquatorial GuineaGabonNigeriaZambia
Broader regions
native:Cabinda, Central African Repu, Congo, Gulf of Guinea Is., Zaïre, Borneo, Malaya, Sulawesi, Sumatera
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 2b870f37-2f6d-49c6-880f-4b9617b255cf
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