You may have heard of macadamia nuts, nuts that are quite reminiscent of walnut (Juglans regal), which give you an extra supply of energy, in addition to being very nutritious and having an exquisite flavor. But actually, the word »Macadamia» refers to a genus of trees and shrubs, the majority originating in Australia, which can be used as plants to provide shade or to delimit areas in the garden.
These are very interesting plants: its cultivation is simple And, in exchange for providing it with minimal care, you can get delicious fruits that will satisfy your hunger in a jiffy.
Macadamia Characteristics
Macadamia is the botanical genus of 14 trees and shrubs that grow mostly in eastern Australia. They can also be found in New Caledonia, Indonesia, and Sulawesi. It belongs to the Proteaceae family. It is characterized by measuring between 2 and 12 meters high, with lanceolate leaves 6-30cm long by 2-13cm wide.
The flowers, which sprout in late winter, are grouped in axillary or terminal inflorescences, long (5 to 30 cm long), white, pink or purple. The fruit is a very hard woody follicle, it has a globose shape and 1 or 2 seeds are found inside., which in two species are edible: Macadamia integrifolia y macadamia tetraphylla.
How do you take care of yourself?
If you want to grow some species of this plant, follow our advice:
- Location: full sun.
- Land: is not demanding, but prefers neutrals.
- Plantation: in spring, leaving 8m between plants.
- Irrigation: moderate, 3 times a week in summer, and every 4-5 days the rest of the year.
- Subscriber: it must be paid with organic fertilizers, such as earthworm humus o manure throughout the growing season (spring and summer).
- Pruning: dry, weak or diseased branches must be removed in autumn.
- Harvest: in summer and autumn.
- Rusticity: does not support frost.
Properties of macadamia nuts
Macadamia nuts, or Australian nuts have interesting properties and health benefits, which are the cholesterol reduction, improved digestion, avoid constipation for its high fiber content, and it is also energetic. Interesting, don't you think?