Shea Butter Tree

The Shea Butter Tree (Vitellaria paradoxa) is a deciduous tree native to the savannas and woodlands of West and Central Africa. Known for its valuable fruit that yields shea butter, this tree thrives in various soil types—ranging from light sandy to heavy clay—and prefers full to partial sun with moisture levels varying from dry to moist conditions. It is hardy in zones 11-12 and can grow up to 15 meters tall. The tree offers multiple uses; its flowers, fruits, inner bark, sap, and seeds are all edible. Its distinctive feature lies in the production of shea butter from its fruit, which has made it an important resource for both local communities and industries.