Candlenut

Overview

Candlenut is a fast-growing tree with silvery-green leaves that stand out on island hillsides. Its hard-shelled nuts are rich in oil.

History

Candlenut is native to Southeast Asia and the western Pacific. Its oily nuts have long been used for lamp oil and, after roasting, as a seasoning.

Growing on Kauaʻi

• Grows quickly in wet to moderate areas.
• Needs room; it becomes a large spreading tree.

Planting and propagation

• Crack or nick the hard shell, soak, and plant seeds about 1 inch deep; germination can be slow.

Care and maintenance

• Little care needed once established.
• Prune lower limbs if shading crops too much.

Role in the guild

Candlenut makes a large canopy and shade tree at the edge of a food forest or along a windbreak; its fallen leaves feed the soil.

Harvest

Nuts fall when mature. Collect them from the ground.

Uses

• Food: only after roasting; raw nuts are strongly laxative.
• Oil: pressed oil for wood finish and skin care.
• Shade and mulch: large canopy and abundant leaf litter.

Important caution

Don’t eat raw candlenuts. They are strongly purgative and can cause severe vomiting and diarrhea. Nuts must be thoroughly roasted, and are eaten only in small amounts.

Problems to watch

• Large size; plant well away from buildings.
• Can seed into nearby areas.

General guidance for Kauaʻi; conditions vary by site. Check any new plant at plantpono.org before planting.