Pentaclethra macrophylla is a relatively fast-growing evergreen tree.
Pentaclethra macrophylla is planted or retained along the edges of home gardens and farms mainly for its seed from which an edible oil can be extracted. The seeds contain a toxic alkaloid. They are eaten boiled or roasted. They are also fermented to yield a snack or condiment with a meaty taste, very popular in south-western Nigeria where it is called 'ugba'.