Ivory Silky Oak, Red Bopple Nut
Hicksbeachia pinnatifolia
Family: Proteaceae
What it is like
An evergreen tree. It grows 2-7 m high and spreads 1.5-4 m wide. It has many stems. The bark is light brown and wrinkled. It is corky. The leaves are up to 1 m long. The leaves are deeply divided. There are 10-35 lobes. They are leathery. The leaflets are unevenly toothed and have prickles. The flowers are in purple spikes. These occur on the old wood. The fruit is 5 cm across. They are blue to bright red and fleshy. They contain an edible pink kernel.
There are 2 Hicksbeachia species.
Where it is found
It grows in warm temperate climates. It can grow in the tropics and subtropics. It needs well drained soil. It can grow in full sun or light shade. It can stand light frosts. It grows in coastal regions. It cannot tolerate drought. It suits hardiness zones 9-12. Coffs Harbour Botanical Gardens.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
The kernels of the nuts are eaten. They are best roasted. (They can contain cyanide that is destroyed in cooking.)
Edible parts
Kernel, seeds, nuts
How it is grown
Plants are difficult to grow. Seed need to be sown when very fresh.
Plants are slow growing. Trees start to bear at 7 years of age.
Its other names
Local names
Australian rosenut, Beefnut, Monkey nut, Red applenut