There are two agreeable edible species Mac. In cultivation or home gardens the habit of the macadamia changes from a tall thin trunked forest tree to a small compact evergreen tree growing between 7 to 10 metres. Macadamia tetraphylla bears a rough pebbly shelled nut with a sweet flavour that is best eaten fresh. Macadamia integrifolia produces smooth shelled nuts that are most suitable for roasting. Nuts grow in clusters off a central stalk, crowded in integrifolia but more loosely collected in tetraphylla as though on a long string.
Trees are best suited to a warm subtropical climate.
There is a surprising diversity between the species with tetraphyllas known to be producing as far north as Rockhampton. A frost free position free from cold winds are best as young plants can be damaged. The further south the planting is situated the more sun exposure is required. Keep well watered when young as trees are susceptible to water stress. Plant out in warmer months mulching well to reduce weed competition which substantially slows growth.