Aleurites moluccana (Candle Nut | Kemiri)

What Is Aleurites moluccana? Aleurites moluccana is one of the most culturally important trees in Indonesian history. It is widely known as the Candle Nut, or Kemiri in the Indonesian language. Furthermore, its exact native origin is hard to pin down. Early human travellers spread the tree across the tropics for thousands of years. Archaeological evidence shows candlenuts were harvested in eastern Indonesia as far back as 13,000 years ago. Consequently, this tree has one of the longest documented histories of human use of any tropical species. The species name moluccana refers to the Moluccas — the famous Spice Islands of eastern Indonesia. Additionally, the genus name Aleurites comes from the Greek word for “flour.” This refers to the light, flour-like dust covering the tree’s young leaves and shoots. Today, the Kemiri tree grows throughout Indonesia, from Sumatra to Papua. Furthermore, every Indonesian region has its own local name for the seed, showing just how deeply this tree is woven into the country’s culture and cuisine. Induare Agro sources authentic, export-grade Kemiri seeds directly from Indonesian growers. Primarily, this gives collectors and growers abroad genuine access to the true source-country seed of this historically vital tree. Additionally, every seed ships with full legal documentation, including a Phytosanitary Certificate, ensuring a smooth and compliant journey to its new home. Aesthetic Features Aleurites moluccana Aleurites moluccana is a large, fast-growing evergreen tree. It typically reaches 15–25 metres in height. Furthermore, some mature specimens can grow up to 30 metres tall in ideal conditions. The tree has a broad, dense, spreading canopy. Its trunk grows straight and cylindrical, reaching up to 70 cm in diameter at maturity. Consequently, a mature Kemiri tree provides excellent shade and a striking silhouette in any landscape. Leaves The leaves of A. moluccana are one of its most recognisable features. They are pale to silvery green in colour. Furthermore, young leaves are covered in a fine, flour-like dust — a soft, star-shaped hair structure that gives the foliage its signature silvery shimmer. Mature leaves are simple and heart-shaped, or oval. Additionally, leaves on young saplings often show three, five, or seven distinct lobes — a feature rarely seen once the tree matures. Each leaf can grow up to 20 cm long. Consequently, the canopy of a Kemiri tree displays a soft, silvery-green colour that stands out from darker tropical foliage nearby. Flowers The flowers of Aleurites moluccana are small but attractive. They are creamy white to pale yellow in colour. Furthermore, they grow in dense, branched clusters at the ends of the branches. Each flower has five petals arranged in a simple, open shape. Additionally, flowering can occur throughout the year. Most blooms appear between April and October. Consequently, it is common to see flowers and developing fruit on the same tree at the same time. Fruit and Seed The fruit is the most valuable part of this species. It is round, thick-skinned, and roughly the size of a walnut. Furthermore, each fruit holds one to two large, round seeds — the famous candlenuts. The seed coat is hard and smooth, with a grayish-brown colour when fully mature. Primarily, the seed kernel inside is extremely high in oil — making it useful for light, food, and traditional remedies. Important note: raw seeds contain natural toxins and must always be roasted or cooked thoroughly before eating. Global Seed Delivery & Phytosanitary Certification Induare Agro is a professional botanical seed exporter based in Indonesia. The company works directly with verified growers across the Indonesian archipelago. Furthermore, Induare Agro ships Indonesian native seeds to collectors, growers, and research institutions in more than 50 countries worldwide. Every order follows a strict, fully documented export process from packing to delivery. Packaging and Shipping Induare Agro packs every seed with professional moisture-control materials. Cushioned express packaging keeps the seeds protected throughout the entire transit journey. Shipments go out via Global Express couriers such as DHL and FedEx. Additionally, most international orders arrive within 5–14 business days. Furthermore, every parcel includes an official Phytosanitary Certificate. This document is issued by Indonesia’s Plant Health Authority. It confirms that the seeds are free from pests, disease, and regulated plant pathogens. Consequently, it meets the import requirements of customs authorities in the EU, USA, UK, Australia, Japan, and most other regulated markets worldwide. Buyer Peace of Mind Induare Agro puts full compliance first in every order. Every shipment includes the Phytosanitary Certificate and a commercial invoice. Furthermore, this complete documentation ensures smooth and fast customs clearance at every international destination. Additionally, the Induare Agro team provides after-sales growing support for every buyer. Primarily, the goal is to make sure every customer successfully germinates and establishes their Aleurites moluccana seed from sprout to mature, productive tree. How to Grow Aleurites moluccana Aleurites moluccana is a fast-growing and rewarding tree to cultivate from seed. Furthermore, it adapts well to tropical, subtropical, and warm climates around the world. The key is to provide warmth, consistent moisture, and good drainage from the very start. Follow these steps for the best results. Step 1 — Seed Preparation Soak the seed in warm water (25–30°C) for 24–48 hours before planting. Additionally, this softens the hard outer shell and helps speed up germination significantly. Step 2 — Growing Medium Use a well-draining, fertile mix: 50% potting soil, 30% perlite or coarse sand, and 20% compost. Consequently, this blend supports strong early root growth while preventing waterlogging. Step 3 — Sowing Plant the seed about 3 cm deep in a pot with drainage holes. Furthermore, keep the growing medium consistently moist throughout the germination period, which can take several weeks. Step 4 — Temperature Maintain a steady temperature between 22°C and 30°C for best results. Primarily, warm and stable conditions speed up germination of this naturally fast-growing species. Step 5 — Light Place the pot in bright, full to partial sun once the seedling emerges. Additionally, this tree tolerates strong sunlight well, even at a young age, unlike many tropical species. Step 6 — Watering Water regularly during the active growing season. Furthermore, allow the topsoil to dry slightly between waterings. Never let the pot sit in standing water, as this can cause root rot. Step 7 — Transplanting Move the seedling to a larger pot or permanent garden location once it reaches 30–40 cm in height. Consequently, this tree grows quickly and benefits from extra root space early on. Step 8 — Long-Term Care Apply a balanced organic fertiliser (NPK 15-15-15) every 6–8 weeks during the growing season. Additionally, flowering typically begins around 4 years of age, with seed production following soon after. Furthermore, this tree tolerates pruning well and can be shaped for both shade and ornamental use. © Content produced for Induare Agro — Indonesia’s professional rare seed exporter.