PlantFun
Plant Needs
Characteristics
- Leaf: Alternate, ovate to palmate, glossy dark green, 10–30 cm wide with pointed tips
- Flower: Small, creamy-white, clustered in terminal panicles; unisexual or bisexual blooms
- Fruit: Round, green turning brown at maturity, containing 2 large, oily seeds (candlenuts)
Care Guide
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth and flowering
Apply balanced organic fertilizer once monthly to support growth and flowering. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which may reduce fruiting
Composted banana peel tea：Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20, and apply as a root drench to support fruiting- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter to improve canopy airflow
- Thin overcrowded branches to allow sunlight penetration for inner foliage and fruiting
- Trim suckers at the base to maintain tree form and direct energy to main canopy growth
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion of leaves, nuts, or seeds may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain
Humans: Raw nuts contain irritant toxins; roasted nuts are safe in small quantities; ingestion of raw nuts may cause gastrointestinal distress
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Used in traditional Polynesian medicine and as a source of candle fuel; symbolizes sustenance and cultural heritage in Pacific Island communities
Usage: Roasted nuts are edible; oil extracted from nuts is used for cooking, soap making, and candle production; grown as an ornamental shade tree
