| Candlenut | |
| Aleurites moluccana | |
| a.k.a. Kukui Nut |
Large brown fruit with little pulp and a thick rind that encloses one or two very large seeds, the candlenuts. The nuts have a variety of uses, both edible and otherwise.
Description: A medium or large sized, spreading, tropical tree up to 50-80ft tall.
Hardiness: Candlenut trees are somewhat hardy and will survive temperatures to 25-28F.
Growing Environment: They grow very well in tropical climates with ample rainfall, but also adapt to dry climates. Candlenut's need little if any care after they are established.
Propagation: By seed, which usually take 3-4 months to germinate.
Uses: Cooked nuts are generally edible, although some strains contain high amounts of cyanide. Usually the nut is pressed for its oil, which is used for a variety of industrial purposes like soap making, varnishes, and fuel. The oil is sometimes used medicinally similar to castor oil, as well as a laxative. In Southeast Asia, the oil is sometimes applied topically to treat headaches, fevers and swollen joints.
Native Range: Native to Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and South Pacific Islands including Hawaii.