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Aleurites moluccanus
Aleurites moluccanus
Aleurites moluccanus
Aleurites moluccanus

Aleurites moluccanus

TAXONOMY

FamilyEuphorbiaceae
GenusAleurites
Zone10

ABOUT

Aleurites moluccanus, commonly known as the candlenut tree, is native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. It is a tropical tree that can grow up to 20 meters tall. The tree is known for its large, glossy leaves and its nuts, which have been used historically for lighting, hence the name 'candlenut'. The tree thrives in wet tropical climates and is often found in coastal and lowland forests.

ALSO KNOWN AS

Camerium Moluccanum
Camirium Cordifolium
Camirium Oleosum
Candlenut Tree
Dryandra Oleifera
Jatropha Moluccana
Juglans Camirium
Manihot Moluccana
Ricinus Dicoccus
Rottlera Moluccana
Telopea Perspicua
Aleurites ambinux
Aleurites angustifolius
Aleurites commutatus
Aleurites cordifolius
Aleurites integrifolius
Aleurites javanicus
Aleurites lanceolata
Aleurites lanceolatus
Aleurites lobata
Aleurites lobatus
Aleurites moluccanus var. alaunii
Aleurites moluccanus var. floccosus
Aleurites moluccanus var. katoi
Aleurites moluccanus var. remyi
Aleurites moluccanus var. serotinus
Aleurites pentaphyllus
Aleurites remyi
Aleurites trilobus
Mallotus moluccanus

OVERVIEW

WaterVery Wet
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity80%
GDD5,475
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar

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DETAILS

Care Instructions
The candlenut tree requires bright, direct sunlight and thrives in warm, humid conditions. It prefers consistently wet soil and should be watered regularly to maintain moisture. The tree grows best in moderate to high temperatures and high humidity. Regular pruning is necessary to maintain its shape and health.
Harvest
Aleurites moluccanus, commonly known as the candlenut tree, is typically harvested for its nuts. The nuts are usually ready for harvest when they fall naturally from the tree, which generally occurs once a year. To harvest, collect the fallen nuts from the ground. It is important to ensure that the nuts are fully mature and have a hard shell. After collection, the nuts should be dried in the sun for several days to reduce moisture content before further processing or storage. The tree thrives in wet tropical climates and requires consistent moisture for optimal growth.
Soil
Aleurites moluccanus prefers well-draining loamy soil that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged. The soil should be rich in organic matter to support its nutrient needs. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the tree every few months during the growing season to support its growth and development. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can harm the tree.
Repotting
Repot young trees every 2-3 years to provide fresh soil and more space for root growth. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Repotting should be done in the early growing season.
Propagation
The candlenut tree can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before planting. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, mature trees and planted in a well-draining soil mix. Propagation is best done in the early growing season.
Pruning
Prune the candlenut tree regularly to remove dead or damaged branches and to maintain its shape. Pruning should be done in the early growing season. Use clean, sharp tools to make clean cuts and avoid damaging the tree.
Toxicity
The nuts of Aleurites moluccanus are toxic if ingested raw. They contain saponins and phorbol esters, which can cause gastrointestinal distress. The tree is toxic to pets and humans if consumed in large quantities. Cooked nuts are safe for consumption.
Additional
The candlenut tree is also valued for its oil, which is extracted from the nuts and used in cooking, cosmetics, and traditional medicine. The tree is also used in reforestation projects due to its fast growth and ability to improve soil quality.
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