Hortiforum

General Info – Red Bopple Nut, Red Bauple Nut, Monkey Nut, Rose Nut, Beef Nut

The Red Bopple Nut is an attractive and rare bush tucker native to the subtropical rainforests along the eastern coast of Australia. Its bright red, fleshy fruits range from 2 to 5 cm in length. While the outer red rind contains an irritant and should not be eaten, the edible part of the fruit is a black seed, rich in calcium, encased in a fibrous seed coat. These seeds are only safe to eat when fully ripe to avoid any lingering cyanide compounds. For added safety, the seeds can be lightly roasted before consumption.
The Red Bopple Nut grows in the subtropical rainforests of northern New South Wales and southeast Queensland, thriving at elevations ranging from sea level to 700 metres. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade once established. The plant is hardy and can withstand frosts.
This shrub has a slender, unbranched form, reaching about 12 metres in height. It can grow with a single stem or multiple stems, resembling the shape of plants like the Papaya, Babaco, or, notably, the unrelated Davidson Plum. Its winged foliage consists of long, pinnate leaves that are leathery, with prickly edges. The plant’s closest relation to the Macadamia tree is evident in its flowers, which grow on hanging peduncles and feature purplish-brown, strongly scented blooms.

Plant Profile/Properties