African Oil Bean Oil Bean Tree
Pentaclethra macrophyllafam. Fabaceae
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Pl. 1C49 — Pentaclethra macrophylla
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IOverview
Overview
The African Oil Bean Tree, scientifically known as Pentaclethra macrophylla, is a large tree native to the tropical regions of West and Central Africa, including Angola, Benin, Cameroon, and Ghana. This tree thrives in moist environments with medium to heavy clay soil and requires full or partial sun for optimal growth. Known for its edible seed and seedpod, it can reach heights of up to 30 meters. Its distinctive feature is the large, heart-shaped leaves and the production of oil-rich seeds that are used in various culinary applications.
Quick answers
What is African Oil Bean Oil Bean Tree?
The African Oil Bean Tree, scientifically known as Pentaclethra macrophylla, is a large tree native to the tropical regions of West and Central Africa, including Angola, Benin, Cameroon, and Ghana.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
The African Oil Bean Tree thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist soil that can be medium or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 10-12, making it suitable for tropical climates. This tree grows up to 30 meters tall and produces edible seeds and seedpods. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
30.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow African Oil Bean Oil Bean Tree for the first time
8steps
Start with planting an African Oil Bean Tree to gain experience in basic tree care.
- 1
What you'll need
African Oil Bean seeds, a large pot or garden space, good quality soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the last frost has passed and temperatures are warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with some clay content. Ensure containers have drainage holes if planting indoors.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start them indoors 6-8 weeks before outdoor planting. Plant seeds about 2 inches deep.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist and provide partial shade to avoid scorching young seedlings.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Provide full sun for best growth but protect from strong winds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts to maintain shape and remove dead branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, not providing enough sunlight, neglecting to prune, and using unsuitable soil.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:SeedSeedpod
Edible uses: Oil, Salt
Other uses:CraftingFire starterFencingLightingMordantMulchoilSoap makingSoil conditionerLumberCoppiceNitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
17 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
17 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 17 native
Africa13 regions
native (13)AngolaBeninCameroonCôte d'IvoireGabonGhanaGuineaGuinea-BissauLiberiaNigeriaSenegalSierra LeoneTogo
Broader regions
native:Central African Repu, Congo, Gulf of Guinea Is., Zaïre
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fabaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fabaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 1c4986ba-aa9e-4300-9106-024e153c017e
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