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Description
Macadamia Tetraphylla, also known as the rough-shelled macadamia, is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree that can reach up to 15 meters in height. It is native to southeastern Queensland and northeastern New South Wales in Australia. The tree is highly valued for its edible nuts, which are rich in protein and healthy fats.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Proteales |
| Family | Proteaceae |
| Genus | Macadamia |
Appearance
Macadamia Tetraphylla has dark green leaves that are arranged in whorls of four, hence its name. The leaves are lance-shaped and can grow up to 25 centimeters long and 10 centimeters wide. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are white or pink in color. The fruit of the tree is a woody husk that contains one or two edible nuts. The nuts are roughly spherical in shape and can measure up to 3 centimeters in diameter. The outer surface of the nut is rough and has a brownish color, while the inner kernel is creamy-white and has a sweet, nutty flavor.
Care Guide
Macadamia Tetraphylla requires well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The tree prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.0 to 6.5. It requires regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. Fertilization is important for the healthy growth of the tree, and a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 is recommended. The tree prefers full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade. It can grow in hardiness zones 9b to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Macadamia Tetraphylla can be susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, including macadamia felted coccid, macadamia twig girdler, and macadamia nut borer. These pests can damage the tree and reduce its yield. The tree can also be affected by fungal diseases such as Phytophthora root rot and stem canker, which can cause the tree to wilt and die.
Habitat
Macadamia Tetraphylla is native to southeastern Queensland and northeastern New South Wales in Australia. It grows in rainforests and on the edges of forests, and can also be found in cultivated orchards. The tree prefers a warm and humid climate, and can tolerate temperatures ranging from 0°C to 40°C.
Question and Answer
Q: How long does it take for Macadamia Tetraphylla to produce nuts?
A: Macadamia Tetraphylla can take up to 7 years to produce nuts, but it can continue to produce nuts for up to 50 years.
Q: Can Macadamia Tetraphylla grow in a container?
A: Yes, Macadamia Tetraphylla can be grown in a container, but it may not produce as many nuts as a tree grown in the ground.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Macadamia Tetraphylla tree?
A: Macadamia Tetraphylla should be fertilized every 2 to 3 months during the growing season.
Q: Can I grow Macadamia Tetraphylla in a cold climate?
A: No, Macadamia Tetraphylla requires a warm and humid climate and cannot tolerate temperatures below 0°C.
Related Plants
- Macadamia integrifolia
- Macadamia ternifolia
- Macadamia jansenii
- Macadamia hildebrandii
References
- “Macadamia tetraphylla.” PlantNET – NSW Flora Online. Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. Web. 21 July 2021.
- “Macadamia tetraphylla.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). Web. 21 July 2021.
- “Growing Macadamias in Australia.” Australian Macadamia Society. Web. 21 July 2021.
