Tree Terminalia Catappa ( Indian or Tropical almond) | 4.0 - 4.5 m | 20 - 25 cm girth

Terminalia catappa, commonly known as the Indian almond, tropical almond, or sea almond, is a large, spreading tropical tree valued for its ornamental shape, edible nuts, and medicinal properties. It is especially well-known for its striking red and yellow foliage before leaf fall.

🔍 Key Facts
Scientific name: Terminalia catappa

Common names: Indian almond, tropical almond, sea almond, Bengal almond, ketapang

Family: Combretaceae

Native range: Tropical Asia, but now widely naturalized in tropical regions around the world

Height: 10–25 meters (33–82 feet)

Leaves: Large, glossy, obovate (spoon-shaped), turn red or yellow before falling

Flowers: Small, white to greenish, in spike-like clusters

Fruit: Oval, green drupe that turns yellow/red when mature; contains an edible kernel (almond-like)

🌿 Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun

Soil: Tolerant of poor, sandy, or saline soils; prefers well-drained sites

Water: Drought-tolerant once established; also tolerates coastal flooding

Climate: Tropical and subtropical; frost-sensitive

Propagation: By seeds (float and germinate easily)

🌴 Notable Features & Uses
Ornamental: Wide-spreading, horizontal branches create a pagoda-like form—popular for shade in coastal landscapes

Edible: Seeds (kernels) are almond-like in flavor and nutritious

Medicinal uses (traditional):

Leaves used for liver disease, skin conditions, and inflammation

Common in traditional Asian and African medicine

Aquarium use: Dried leaves used in aquariums to reduce pH and promote fish health (especially bettas and shrimp)

Environmental use: Coastal erosion control and reforestation