Macadamia — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Macadamia integrifolia |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 28–60 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 20–26.7 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 2190–3650 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 457.2–914.4 |
| Mature height (cm) | 457.2–1066.8 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 457.2–914.4 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 9–11 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | Transplant |
Growing directions
Macadamias are self-fertile but cross-pollination between two or more varieties meaningfully increases yields; grafted trees start bearing at 3–5 years, while seedlings can take 10–15 years. The tree prefers well-drained, slightly acid soil (pH 5.5–6.5) and is sensitive to root disturbance — plant without disturbing the root ball. Trees produce racemes of cream-white flowers that fall and create a slippery surface; harvesting is done by collecting nuts that have dropped naturally as the green husk splits and the nut falls. Shell and dry nuts for 3–4 weeks before cracking; the shells require a commercial or heavy-duty nut cracker as they are among the hardest of any food nut.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0