Candlenut tree (Aleurites moluccanus)
Discover Aleurites moluccanus, the Candlenut tree: a tropical evergreen yielding showy flowers and historic oil-rich nuts.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
The Candlenut tree (Aleurites moluccanus) is a striking tropical broadleaf evergreen highly valued for its ornamental qualities in suitable climates. This species features distinctive, pale green, maple-like leaves that often give the foliage a soft, floury appearance from a distance. It is an important historical and cultural marker, particularly in Hawaii where it is the state tree.
Aleurites moluccanus develops attractive clusters of creamy white flowers, making it a beautiful inclusion in tropical landscapes. Beyond aesthetics, its historical use—burning the oil-rich nuts for light—lends this tree significant heritage value. Gardeners should note its low maintenance requirements once established.
This robust tree typically reaches mature heights between 20 and 50 feet, providing substantial shade. Cultivation is restricted to warmer regions, thrive best in climates supporting long, humid summers, though it is remarkably resilient once placed in its preferred soil conditions.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Euphorbiaceae
- Plant Type: Broadleaf evergreen
- Native Range: Tropical Asia, Australia
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 10-12
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 20-50 ft
- Spread: 15-40 ft
- Bloom Time: Seasonal bloomer
- Bloom Description: Creamy white flowers
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Low
How to Grow
When establishing the Aleurites moluccanus, choose a location that provides full sun exposure, although it can tolerate some light shade. The ideal growing medium consists of slightly acidic, well-drained loams with medium moisture retention. Thriving occurs in deep, fertile soils, but this resilient tree is tolerant of poorer mediums as well.
Watering should be consistent, aiming for medium levels of moisture, especially during establishment and extended dry periods. Fertilization is usually not critical as the Candlenut tree adapts well to various soil fertility levels. Pruning is generally minimal, focusing only on removing dead or damaged wood to maintain its natural, spreading habit.
This species is winter hardy only to about 28 degrees F, restricting its viable range to USDA Zones 10 through 12. Plants perform best in locales characterized by long, humid summers, which mimic their native tropical environments. Ensure drainage is excellent to prevent root stress.
Landscape Uses
The Aleurites moluccanus excels where a substantial, fast-growing evergreen specimen is needed. As a Shade Tree, its broad canopy offers significant relief during hot tropical days, making it perfect for large lawns or open park settings. Its ornamental qualities also qualify it as an excellent Flowering Tree.
Because of its size and broad structure, it works well as a specimen plant placed away from structures or beneath which seating areas can be placed to enjoy the light, dappled shade. Consider planting companion species that either appreciate the partial afternoon shade it provides or those that contrast nicely with its pale green, heart-shaped foliage.
For larger landscapes, mass plantings can create a stunning effect when the creamy white flowers bloom seasonally. The visual interest provided by the foliage and the presence of fruit and flowers simultaneously throughout the year adds dynamic texture to the tropical garden design.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
Fruit Qualities
- Showy
Noteworthy Characteristics
Aleurites moluccanus, commonly known as Kukui or Candlenut tree, is a tropical broadleaf evergreen tree in the spurge family that is noted for producing attractive flowers, walnut-sized fruits and maple-like, pale green, evergreen leaves. The small, 5-petaled, creamy white flowers bloom in dense panicled cymes, often appearing alongside developing fruits, creating year-round interest. Historically, Hawaiians utilized the oil-rich seeds for lighting, leading to the candle connection mentioned in its common name.
Tolerances
- Susceptible to dieback and canker
Potential Problems
The Aleurites moluccanus generally experiences few serious insect or disease issues, which contributes to its low maintenance reputation. However, gardeners must remain vigilant for signs of dieback and canker, which can affect the health of the limbs or overall structure.
Crucially, all parts of this tree are considered toxic if ingested by humans; the seeds, in particular, contain compounds that require special processing before consumption. Proper placement away from areas accessible to pets or children is essential due to these inherent ingestion hazards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Candlenut tree suitable for?
The Candlenut tree (Aleurites moluccanus) is best suited for USDA Hardiness Zones 10 through 12, where it can survive brief dips in temperature down to approximately 28 degrees F.
How large does Candlenut tree grow?
This broadleaf evergreen typically matures to a height range of 20 to 50 feet, with a corresponding spread of 15 to 40 feet, creating a substantial canopy.
What sun exposure does Aleurites moluccanus need?
Aleurites moluccanus requires full sun for optimal growth, although it can tolerate periods of light shade throughout the day.
When does Candlenut tree bloom?
It is classified as a seasonal bloomer, producing clusters of creamy white flowers, typically blooming between April and October.
Conclusion
The Aleurites moluccanus, or Candlenut tree, offers tremendous value for warm climate gardeners seeking a large, architecturally pleasing evergreen with low maintenance needs and historical significance. Its showy, albeit subtle, creamy blooms and resilient nature make it a superb shade provider. Before planting, confirm your location falls within USDA Zones 10-12 to ensure the long-term success of this unique tropical specimen.
Companion Planting
Selecting appropriate companions for Aleurites moluccanus primarily involves choosing plants that tolerate similar tropical conditions and appreciate the dappled shade provided beneath its canopy as it matures. Plants requiring full, blazing sun may struggle directly under the densest parts of the Candlenut tree.
Look for understory shrubs and groundcovers native to similar humid environments. Tropical ferns, elephant ears (Alocasia/Colocasia), and certain ginger varieties thrive in the slightly cooler, protected environment created underneath this large tree. Their lush, contrasting foliage highlights the pale green hue of the Candlenut tree leaves.
When integrating the Aleurites moluccanus into a larger landscape plan, consider using plants with deep purple or dark green leaves to contrast against its lighter color palette. This contrast emphasizes the tree’s unique visual texture without competing for essential overhead light resources.
Seasonal Care Calendar
For gardeners in Zones 10-12, care for the Candlenut tree mostly revolves around ensuring adequate moisture during the hottest months. While established trees are medium water users, intense summer heat necessitates consistent deep watering, especially if the tree is young or soil quality is poor.
Spring preparation involves a light inspection for any winter damage, such as broken twigs or minor dieback, and gently removing those materials. Avoid heavy fertilization; if necessary, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer sparingly, as the tree tolerates poorer soils well.
As summer progresses, monitor for pests, though significant infestations are rare for Aleurites moluccanus. Fall and winter maintenance is minimal in tropical zones; simply ensure drainage remains superior as the tree enters its cooler, but still evergreen, growing period.
