Schinziophyton rautanenii, commonly known as the Mongongo tree or Manketti tree, is a deciduous tree native to the seasonally dry woodlands and savannas of subtropical southern Africa, including northern Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. It is particularly adapted to hot, dry climates and is often found on wooded hills and sand dunes, associated with Kalahari sand soil-types. The Mongongo tree typically reaches a height of 49-66 feet (15-20 meters) and has a large, spreading canopy that provides valuable shade. It produces distinctive hand-shaped leaves and yellowish flowers in loose sprays, which are pollinated by wind. The flowers are not particularly showy, but the tree is well-known for its velvety, egg-shaped fruits that ripen to a rich brown color. These fruits contain edible nuts that are a staple diet for the San people and are rich in protein, fat, and minerals.

The Mongongo tree is valued for its hardy nature and the multiple uses of its nuts and wood. The nuts are high in vitamin E and are used to produce oil for skin moisturizing, especially useful in dry seasons. The lightweight and strong wood is utilized for making various items such as fishing floats, toys, and drawing boards. In cultivation, the Mongongo tree is often planted for its potential as a food crop, as well as for reforestation and soil stabilization projects. It requires full sun and well-drained soils, preferably sandy, and is drought-tolerant once established.CC BY-SA 4.0