Macadamia nut (Macadamia ternifolia) | seeds, 3 pcs.

RARE

• Latin name: Macadamia ternifolia
• Danish names: Macadamia, Macadamianød
• English names: Bush nut, macadamia nut tree

Macadamia ternifolia is one of the original macadamia species and originates from eastern Australia, where it grows in subtropical forests and forest margins. It is closely related to the more commercially cultivated Macadamia integrifolia and Macadamia tetraphylla, but is often considered more wild and botanically primitive in its appearance.

The plant develops as a small to medium-sized evergreen tree with glossy, dark green leaves, which typically grow in whorls of three – which is also reflected in the specific epithet ternifolia. During the flowering period, the tree produces long, pendulous inflorescences with small, cream-colored flowers, which can later develop into the characteristic, hard-shelled nuts. The nuts are aromatic and edible, but the shell is very hard and requires processing to open.

Cultivation and requirements:

Macadamia ternifolia thrives best in full sun to light partial shade and prefers a deep, well-drained, and slightly acidic soil. It appreciates warm summers and consistent moisture, but does not tolerate standing water around the roots.

The species is not fully hardy and should be grown as a potted plant in Denmark. It can be kept outdoors during the summer months in a warm, sheltered spot, but must be overwintered in a bright and frost-free location. It can briefly tolerate temperatures down to about –2 to –3 °C, but prolonged frost should be avoided. The warmer and brighter the conditions, the better its health and growth.

Cultivation from seed:

The seeds are large and have a hard shell. To promote germination, it is recommended to soak the seeds in lukewarm water for 24–48 hours before sowing. They should be sown in an airy, well-drained soil mix and lightly covered.

Germination occurs best at 22–28 °C and can take from 4 weeks to several months. Young plants grow slowly at first, but eventually establish a strong root system and become more robust.

Utility:

Macadamia ternifolia is grown both as an ornamental and a useful plant. The nuts are edible and aromatic, although less commercially used than other macadamia species. The tree also has high ornamental value with its evergreen foliage, beautiful inflorescences, and elegant growth habit.

As a potted plant, it is particularly attractive for those who wish to grow their own nuts on a smaller scale while having an exotic, evergreen tree of botanical interest.

Macadamia ternifolia is an exciting choice for plant enthusiasts who want a more original macadamia species – a beautiful, slow-growing tree that combines an exotic appearance with the possibility of homegrown nuts.