Mahua Tree (Madhuca longifolia)
Scientific Name: Madhuca longifolia — Mahua, Indian Butter Tree.
Native Home: Indian subcontinent, especially central and peninsular India.
Height: 10–20 metres.
Lifespan: Often 100 years or more under favourable conditions.
Uses and Harvesting
Timber: Hard wood used for construction and agricultural implements.
Harvesting: Fallen flowers and mature seeds are collected seasonally.
Age to Harvest: Flowering may begin around 8–15 years, depending on growing conditions and propagation method.
Products: Mahua flowers, seed oil, soaps, cosmetics, livestock feed ingredients and timber.
History and Global Production
Traditional Use: Flowers have long been used in regional foods and beverages; seed oil is used for soap and other products.
Global Spread: Native to South Asia, with commercial cultivation and collection concentrated in India.
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