Vegetable tallow tree (Allanblackia parviflora)

Family: Clusiaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Allanblackia parviflora is an evergreen Tree growing to 20 m (65ft) by 15 m (49ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The fat obtained from the seed, known as 'allanblackia fat' or 'beurre de bouandjo' in Congo, is used in food preparation. — The fat obtained from the seed, known as 'allanblackia fat' or 'beurre de bouandjo' in Congo, is used in food preparation.; Recently, the international food industry has become interested in the fat as a natural solid component for margarines and similar products.; The seeds contain a fat that is solid at ambient temperatures.; The kernel, which makes up about 60% of the seed, contains about 72% fat.

Habitat & North American Range

Undergrowth in rain and secondary forest; at elevations up to 250 metres. Most abundant in wet evergreen forest zone, especially on slopes and away from disturbed areas. Less common in semi-deciduous forest. (Zone 10)