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aesandra
Scientific Name: Aesandra
Family: Sapotaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Aesandra butyracea: The Nepal Butter Fruit
Aesandra butyracea, also known as Nepal Butter Fruit and locally as Chiuri (in Nepal), is a multipurpose tree with a rich history and various uses.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Aesandra butyracea (Roxb.) Baehni
- Synonyms:
- Diploknema butyracea (Roxb.) H.J. Lam
- Bassia butyracea Roxb.
- Madhuca butyracea (Roxb.) J. F. Macbr.
- Family: Sapotaceae (Mahua family)
- Genus: Aesandra
- Species: butyracea
Distribution and Habitat
Aesandra butyracea is found in the valley regions of the Pithoragarh District of the Kumaon subdivision of the Himalayas. It typically grows on sloping land with deep soil.
Ecological Role
Aesandra butyracea is a light-demanding species, capable of tolerating some frost. It is a tree that farmers may take special measures to protect.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
This species is a tree, reaching heights of up to 20 meters, based on observations from Thailand.
Uses
- The seeds are used to extract "ghee" or butter, known as "Chiuri ghee".
- The tree produces good fuel wood and durable timber.
- The leaves are used as tree fodder in many areas of Nepal.
Considerations for Pets
- The plant produces seeds that may be tempting for pets to ingest.
Historical and Cultural Significance
The tree has great cultural significance to the Chepang people of Nepal's Chitwan.
Further Information
For more information, you can check resources such as the Kew family checklist, the ePIC (Electronic Plant Information Centre of Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew), AGRICOLA, and Tropicos.