Argan Tree, Spiny Argania, Morocco Ironwood

Argania spinosa

Physical Characteristics

Argania spinosa is an evergreen Tree growing to 7 m (23ft) by 12 m (39ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The flowers are pollinated by Bees, Butterflies. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

Northwest Africa - Algeria, Morocco, Western Sahara, Mauritania.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Leaves Oil Seed Edible Uses: Chocolate Oil Edible portion: Nut - oil, Leaves, Fruit. An edible oil is obtained from the seed [ 418 ]. The white seeds contain up to 50% of a light brown oil[ 303 ]. This oil is an excellent source of vitamin E, and has a high nutritional value in the human diet. The locals mix oil with almonds and honey to make an almond butter; it also mixed with wheat germ and honey to make gruel[ 303 ]. The residue from the kernels, after oil extraction, is a thick chocolate-coloured paste called 'amlou' which is sweetened and served as a dip for bread at breakfast time in Berber households. Its flavour is similar to that of peanut butter [ 303 ]. The fruit are pressed for the oil which has an aroma and is used in cooking. The oil is cold pressed from the fruit. The oil is used like olive oil for cooking, frying and salad dressing.

Medicinal Uses

Anticholesterolemic Digestive Tonic Vasodilator The oil from the seeds is rich in vitamin E and has properties which lower blood-cholesterol levels, stimulate circulation of the blood, facilitate digestion and strengthen the body's natural defences. It is used as a cure for chicken pox, to treat juvenile acne and help remove stretch marks on pregnant woman[ 303 ].

Known Hazards

Plant has spines or sharp edges; use extreme caution when handling