Family: Burseraceae
rigin, Description & Uses
Pachylobus edulis, commonly known as African pear or bush butter tree, is a tropical tree native to West and Central Africa. It is a fast-growing, evergreen tree that can reach 40–60 feet tall, with a dense canopy and glossy, dark green leaves. The tree produces distinctive purple, plum-like fruits with buttery, nutrient-rich flesh that softens when gently heated. The fruit is widely enjoyed fresh or roasted and is an important food source in its native range. In addition to its edible fruit, the tree is valued for shade, ornamental planting, and traditional uses. Its attractive form and useful harvest make it appealing for home gardens and small farms in warm climates.
Risks, Threats & Management
African pear is considered a low risk species. While it produces viable seeds, it has not demonstrated aggressive spreading behavior in Hawaii or similar environments. The tree typically requires cultivation and favorable tropical conditions to thrive and is not known to invade natural areas. As with any non-native species, responsible planting is encouraged—gardeners should monitor for unwanted seedlings and avoid planting near sensitive natural habitats. With mindful management and proper placement, African pear can be grown as a productive and ornamental tree without posing significant ecological concerns.
High Risk Traits:
- Broad climate suitability – adapts to varied day length, temperature, rainfall, and soils
- History of repeated introductions – spread by humans beyond native range into tropical Asia
- Shade tolerant – can establish in forest understory
- Wide soil tolerance – grows in multiple soil types, prefers acidic ferallitic soils
- Self-compatible – can reproduce without mates
- Intentionally dispersed by people – widely cultivated
Low Risk Traits:
- No evidence of naturalization outside native range
- Not a weed – no records as garden, agricultural, or environmental weed
- Non-toxic – leaves used as fodder, fruit commonly eaten
- No spines/thorns
- Not prolific seeder – seed production <1000/m²
- No persistent seed bank – viability short-lived
- Limited vegetative spread – does not fragment easily in wild
- Pollinator-dependent – may limit reproduction in new areas
