Buah Keras, Candle nut Tree, Kukui Nut

Frost Tolerance: Loses its leaves in the colder areas of its distribution area

Sun Exposure: Full sun to part sun

Origin: South East Asia to Malaysia and Australia

Growth Habits: Evergreen or partly deciduous, medium or large tree, up to 50 to 80 feet tall (15-24 m); grey trunk; heart-shaped or ovate-lanceolate, leathery, bright green leaves, 7 to 12 inches long (17-30 cm) and 6 inches wide (15 cm), with conspicuous veins; the young foliage has a silvery, powdered appearance

Watering Needs: Moderate to abundant water; prefers a good drainage

Propagation: Seeds

Official tree of the State of Hawaii. The oily seeds burn and were used as candles by the early settlers. Cooked nuts are generally edible

Blooming Habits:
Fragrant white flowers.

Fruiting Habits:
Brown fruit, 2 inches in diameter (5 cm), with little pulp and a thick rind that encloses one or two large seeds.