Butter Tree

Madhuca butyracea, Sapotaceae

Zones

9–11

Layer

Canopy

Lifespan

Perennial

Growth

Moderate

Guild Roles

ProducerShade ProviderWindbreakBeneficial Insect Habitat

Growing Conditions

Sun

Full Sun (preferred)Partial Shade (tolerated)

Water

Moderate (established)High (fruiting)

Soil pH

5.5 – 7.5

Tolerances

Drought

Frost

Heat

Pest Resistance

Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

Thai Black GingerKaempferia parviflora

Shade ProvisionNurse Plant

Five-leaf YamDioscorea pentaphylla

Shade ProvisionPhysical Support

Bluestone EryngoEryngium integrifolium

Beneficial Insect HabitatPollinator Sharing

Red SandersPterocarpus santalinus

Shade ProvisionPollinator Sharing

Antagonistic Plants

Thai Pepper TreeZanthoxylum limonella

Thai Pepper Tree may provide pest deterrence for Butter Tree but potential allelopathic effects require careful spacing

Coastal Red MilkwoodMimusops caffra

Both Sapotaceae trees with similar growth patterns compete for resources and space

Uses

Functions

Oil ProductionFood ProductionTimber ProductionWildlife Habitat

Edible Parts

SeedsFlowersFruits

Medicinal Uses

Skin AilmentsTraditional MedicineWound Healing

Common Questions

What zones does Butter Tree grow in?

Butter Tree grows in USDA hardiness zones 9 through 11.

What are good companion plants for Butter Tree?

Good companions for Butter Tree include Thai Black Ginger, Five-leaf Yam, Bluestone Eryngo, Red Sanders.

Design guilds with Butter Tree and see companion relationships visually.

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