The Story
Plant Bio
Calophyllum inophyllum is a massive, spreading evergreen tree native to the sandy littoral zones of northern Australia. It develops a heavy, often leaning trunk and a dense, dome-shaped crown of stiff, leathery leaves marked by fine, closely spaced parallel veins.
The sweetly scented white flowers feature prominent golden-yellow stamens and a bright pink pistil, appearing in axillary clusters during spring and summer. They are followed by spherical fruits containing a toxic seed kernel that is highly poisonous if ingested.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
787 inches
Width
787 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9, 10
Water
Low (once established)
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Long-lived
Native To
Northern Australia
Toxicity
Toxic if Ingested
Bloom period
Spring – Summer
In flower about 4 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a planting site with full sun exposure and ample clearance from buildings, powerlines, and underground infrastructure to accommodate the massive mature spread.
- Excavate a hole twice the width of the root ball, ensuring the soil is highly free-draining, such as sandy or calcareous loam.
- Position the tree at the same depth it was in the container, backfill with native soil, and water thoroughly to settle the roots.
- Apply a thick layer of organic mulch around the root zone, keeping it clear of the trunk, and water regularly until the root system is established.
Pro Tip
Avoid making drastic heading cuts into old, leafless wood, as this species responds poorly to heavy pruning and will fail to regenerate a clean canopy.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells until the root system is fully established.
- Provide ample space for the heavy, spreading limbs to develop naturally.
- Prune selectively only to clear dead wood or maintain structural clearance.
Don't
- Do not plant close to pathways, foundations, or pipes due to the massive root and limb spread.
- Do not prune heavily or make heading cuts into old, leafless wood.
- Do not allow livestock or pets access to fallen fruits containing toxic seed kernels.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Tamanu questions
What zones can Tamanu grow in?
Tamanu is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
When does Tamanu bloom?
Tamanu typically blooms in spring through summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Tamanu need full sun?
Tamanu does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Tamanu drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Tamanu handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Tamanu with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.