Moreton bay chestnut - Castanospermum australe (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Moreton bay chestnut

Also known as: Australian chestnut

Moreton bay chestnut (Castanospermum australe) is a large evergreen tree species native to Australia. The moreton bay chestnut is commonly cultivated in potted plants and for landscaping purposes. This species was used by indigenous peoples of Australia to create wooden spears.

Scientific classification

Species

Moreton bay chestnut (Castanospermum australe)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

15 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

Orange, Yellow, Red

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Moreton bay chestnut

Distribution of Moreton bay chestnut

Distribution Map

Moreton bay chestnut, naturally occurring in the Pacific region, has been introduced to various parts of the tropical and subtropical zones across Southeast Asia, the Indian subcontinent, East Africa, and Southern Africa. This plant has adapted well beyond its native range and is also cultivated, highlighting both its resilience and popularity in diverse climates.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Rainforests, banks of creeks

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

The moreton bay chestnut thrives in sunny tropical, coastal, and wildlife gardens. It's an ornamental tree with vibrant evergreen leaves and showy summertime flowers. This tree works well as a specimen or shade tree. Potted varieties of this plant can decorate indoor rooms and outdoor patios. Birds tend to flock to the outdoor trees.

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Toxicity

Humans, cats, and dogs can be poisoned by ingesting raw seeds of moreton bay chestnut, which contain toxic alkaloid castanospermine. The symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and severe illness in pets. Dogs risk organ failure or death, emphasizing immediate veterinary care. Moreton bay chestnut is a common decorative plant, increasing contact risks.

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Quickly Identify Moreton bay chestnut

Large pinnate leaves with 11-15 leathery leaflets, each up to 6 inches (15 cm) long.

Flowers bell-shaped, orange-red, with 5-lobed yellow calyx and 8-10 stamens.

Notable large cylindrical fruit pod, 6-10 inches (15-25 cm) long, containing 3-5 brown seeds.

Dark green imparipinnate leaves, 8-14 inches (20-35 cm) long, with 8-17 oval-shaped leaflets.

Robust trunk up to 3.9 feet (1.2 meters) wide with textured bark featuring raised spots.

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Care Guide for Moreton bay chestnut

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Moreton bay chestnut thrives in humid coastal rainforest climates, favoring consistent moisture. Water weekly to maintain its lush, evergreen foliage. Typically grown outdoors, moreton bay chestnut benefits from mulching to retain soil moisture, reflecting its natural habitat’s layering.

Fertilize: To promote healthy growth in moreton bay chestnut, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer, with quarterly applications. Limit feeding per product guidelines to avoid harm, and reduce or withhold during fall and winter. Use gloves and follow safety instructions for optimal care.

Pruning: Moreton bay chestnut is an evergreen tree with glossy leaves and bright flowers. Pruning from early to late winter promotes growth, enhances flowering, prevents disease, and maintains structure. Techniques include removing dead branches and thinning crowded areas for better air circulation.

Propagation: Native to eastern Australia, moreton bay chestnut is best propagated by sowing fresh seeds soaked for 24 hours. Use a well-draining mix, maintain moisture and warmth for germination, which can be slow. Once seedlings grow, transplant to individual pots with organic-rich substrate for optimal growth.

Repotting: Moreton bay chestnut is a robust seed-producing plant that needs repotting every 2-3 years. Repot in early spring for optimal growth, using a larger, well-draining pot. After repotting, water sparingly and provide indirect sunlight to help the plant recover.

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