| Macadamia Nut | |
| Macadamia integrifolia | |
| a.k.a. Smooth Shelled Macadamia |
Hard shelled fruit containing a single seed, the macadamia nut. Fruits are generally green skinned, with a brown seed, inside of its hard shell is an edible white kernel.
Description: Medium to large sized tree, generally to 30-40ft but occasionally taller.
Hardiness: Macadamia's grow best in tropical and subtropical climates. The trees are reasonably hardy and can survive to 24F. In California, fruiting specimens are found as far north as the San Francisco Bay Area, (trees are found on the U.C. Berkeley campus, as well as the Strybing Arboretum in Golden Gate Park.) Younger trees can be killed by freezes.
Growing Environment: Trees grow best in full sun, except in hot climates where part shade is beneficial. Trees like year-round water, and although they will stand periods of drought, fruit set is usually lower.
Propagation: By seeds or grafts.
Uses: Seed kernels are edible when roasted. The macadamia nut is often considered the best tasting nut in the world and demands high prices in retail.
Native Range: Native to southeast Queensland, Australia. Grows wild in rainforest regions and near water sources.