The argan tree or arganie (Argania spinosa) is the only plant species of the genus Argania, which belongs to the sapotaceae family.
The argan tree is native to Morocco and Algeria and has been cultivated there for many centuries for oil extraction. The argan tree grows at altitudes of up to 1,300 metres. It is a lignifying plant of medium size, and reaches a height of 12m.
The berry fruits of the argan tree ripen from June or July of the next year in a so-called perennial cycle, have bitter pulp and contain an almond-sized kernel with 2 or 3 seeds from which oil is extracted. Argan oil is used as edible oil and as a basic cosmetic.