Butter Tree. Mahua (Madhuca longifolia)

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

Madhuca longifolia is a deciduous Tree growing to 16 m (52ft) by 14 m (46ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The flowers are pollinated by Bats. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Leaves, Flowers

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Rich in nectar, they are used as a sweetener and a source of sugar. — The fragrant fleshy flowers can be eaten raw or cooked.; Rich in nectar, they are used as a sweetener and a source of sugar.; They can also be dried for later use.; The dried flowers can be powdered and added to flour.

Habitat & North American Range

Margins of tropical and subtropical forests at elevations up to 200 metres in Nepal. Deciduous forests and dry sal plain forests. The tree is usually found scattered in pastures and cultivated fields in central India. (Zone 10)