African Pearwood (Baillonella toxisperma)

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

African Pearwood (Baillonella toxisperma), otherwise known as False Shea Butternut, is a large, tropical tree that can reach up to 60 m high with a trunk diameter of up to 300 to 500 cm. It has a straight and cylindrical bole, alternately arranged leaves, and round fruits. In traditional medicine, the seed kernel of this plant is used for its fatty oil content to treat rheumatism.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Edible portion: Nut, Seeds - oil, Fruit. The fruit pulp is eaten fresh although it contains latex. The seed kernel contains a fatty oil that is used in cooking. The residue after extracting the oil is toxic. — Edible portion: Nut, Seeds - oil, Fruit.; The fruit pulp is eaten fresh although it contains latex.; The seed kernel contains a fatty oil that is used in cooking.; The residue after extracting the oil is toxic.

Habitat & North American Range

Usually scattered in primary rainforest on all soil types except marshy soil. (Zone 10)