Argan

Argan

Argan is a genus of tree known by the scientific name Argania spinosa. It is the sole species in the genus Argania. The Argan tree is endemic to the calcareous semi-desert Sous valley of southwestern Morocco and to the Algerian region of Tindouf in the western Mediterranean region. It is a relic species from the Tertiary age, which means it is one of the few remaining species of a group of plants that existed millions of years ago.

Description

The Argan tree is a small to medium-sized tree, reaching heights of 8-10 meters. It has a gnarled, black trunk and sharp thorns. The leaves are small, 2-4 cm long, and oval with a rounded apex. The flowers are small, with five pale yellow-green petals. The fruit is 2-4 cm long and 1.5-3 cm broad, with a thick, bitter peel surrounding a sweet-smelling but unpleasantly flavored layer of pulpy pericarp.

Uses

The Argan tree is of great economic importance to Morocco. The trees' nuts are traditionally harvested by hand and then ground into oil. Argan oil is rich in essential fatty acids, and is used in cooking, cosmetics, and in traditional medicine. The wood and nut shells are also used as fuel.

Conservation

The Argan tree is under protection of UNESCO since 1998, with the Arganeraie Biosphere Reserve dedicated to the preservation of this unique tree. However, the species is still threatened by overgrazing, deforestation and increasingly, desertification.

See also

• Argan oil
• Arganeraie Biosphere Reserve
• Moroccan cuisine