Macadamia sp. (Macadamia nut)

Macadamia sp., commonly known as Macadamia Nut Tree, refers to a group of evergreen trees in the Proteaceae family native to Australia. These trees typically grow 20 to 40 ft tall, forming a dense, rounded canopy with leathery, glossy green leaves that may be smooth or slightly toothed depending on species. Long, pendulous flower racemes bear numerous small, creamy white to pinkish flowers, followed by hard-shelled nuts enclosed in a green husk. The macadamia nuts in cultivation come mainly from Macadamia integrifolia, Macadamia tetraphylla, and their hybrids, which are often difficult to distinguish without detailed botanical traits.

This group prefers full sun and well-drained soil with regular moisture, especially during establishment and nut development. Growth rate is moderate to fast in warm climates. Cold tolerance varies, with damage likely below about 25 to 28F; best suited to USDA Zones 9 to 11 depending on species. Macadamia species are grown both as ornamental shade trees and for nut production and can be maintained in large containers when young.