Contents
Description
Aleurites Moluccanus, commonly known as the candlenut tree, is a tropical tree in the family Euphorbiaceae. It is native to the Pacific Islands and is widely cultivated for its nuts, which are used as a source of oil and food. The tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a broad, spreading canopy. The leaves are large, glossy, and dark green, with a leathery texture. The flowers are small, white to greenish-yellow, and are borne in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is round, about the size of a golf ball, and contains a hard shell that encases the nut.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Aleurites |
Appearance
The candlenut tree has a distinctive appearance with a broad, spreading canopy and large, glossy leaves that are dark green on the upper surface and lighter green on the underside. The leaves are leathery and can grow up to 30 cm long and 20 cm wide. The flowers are small, white to greenish-yellow, and are borne in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is round, about the size of a golf ball, and contains a hard shell that encases the nut. The nut itself is about the size of a hazelnut and has a white, oily kernel.
Care Guide
The candlenut tree prefers a warm, humid climate and a well-drained soil. It requires regular watering, especially during the dry season, and benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. The tree is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and can grow in full sun or partial shade. It is hardy to USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The candlenut tree is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew. These diseases can be controlled with fungicides and good cultural practices such as proper watering and fertilization. The tree can also be attacked by mealybugs and scale insects, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Habitat
The candlenut tree is native to the Pacific Islands and is widely cultivated throughout the tropics. It grows best in warm, humid climates and is often found near the coast or in lowland areas. It is commonly planted as an ornamental tree and as a source of nuts for food and oil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the nuts of the candlenut tree be eaten?
A: Yes, the nuts of the candlenut tree are edible and are used in traditional Pacific Island cuisine. However, they are toxic if eaten raw and must be roasted or boiled before consumption.
Q: What is candlenut oil used for?
A: Candlenut oil is used for cooking and as a traditional medicine in the Pacific Islands. It is high in unsaturated fatty acids and has a nutty flavor.
Q: Is the candlenut tree invasive?
A: The candlenut tree can be invasive in some areas, especially in Hawaii where it has naturalized and can outcompete native species.
Q: Is the candlenut tree difficult to grow?
A: The candlenut tree is relatively easy to grow in warm, humid climates and is tolerant of a wide range of soil types. However, it does require regular watering and fertilization to thrive.
Related Plants
- Aleurites fordii
- Aleurites moluccana ‘Variegata’
- Aleurites montana
- Aleurites rockinghamensis
References
- https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/11148
- https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/55260/
- https://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/duke_energy/Aleurites_moluccana.html
