Temy Rowland Associates LLC

Scientific Name Vitellaria paradoxa
Common Name Shea Butter
Family Sapotaceae
Origin West and Central Africa
Butter Color Ivory to pale yellow
Texture Smooth, creamy, solid at room temperature
Melting Point 89.6°F to 95°F (32°C to 35°C)
Oil Content High in fatty acids (oleic, stearic, linoleic)
Fragrance Mild, nutty aroma
Source Extracted from the nuts of the shea tree
Uses Skin moisturizer, hair care, cooking, cosmetics
Plant Height 30 to 50 feet (9 to 15 meters)

Scientific Name Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
Common Name Hibiscus, Rose Mallow, Chinese Hibiscus
Family Malvaceae
Origin Tropical and subtropical regions worldwide
Flower Shape Funnel-shaped, with five petals
Petal Colors Red, pink, white, yellow, orange, purple
Size 4 to 8 inches (10 to 20 cm) in diameter
Flowering Season Throughout the year in tropical climates
Bloom Duration Each flower blooms for 1–2 days
Leaf Shape Oval or lanceolate with serrated edges
Leaf Size 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) long

Scientific Name Sesamum indicum
Common Name Sesame, Benne
Family Pedaliaceae
Origin Sub-Saharan Africa and India
Seed Size 2 to 4 mm in length
Seed Color White, black, red, brown, or tan
Seed Shape Oval, slightly flattened
Seed Texture Smooth, slightly glossy
Oil Content 45-60% oil content
Plant Height 3 to 6 feet (0.9 to 1.8 meters)
Growth Habit Erect, herbaceous annual plant