These are not edible, but the stems immediately behind them swell and become sweet and raisin-like, especially as they dry. J uglans neotropica. A South American subtropical walnut. Very fast growing in NZ- approximately at the rate of Pinus radiata. Its value, apart from the fact that it's splendid looking, is probably as a timber tree.
Light frosts only, and none when very young.
Nuts available in July-August. They're 50c each, and inquire about postal charges for such large seeds. TOP O ncoba spinosa. See main seedlist . Their fruit is often edible too.