Amboina
Neolamarckia cadamba
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Pl. DB3C — Neolamarckia cadamba
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IOverview
Overview
Amboina, scientifically known as Neolamarckia cadamba, is a large tree native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent, including Andaman Islands, Assam, Bangladesh, Borneo, Cambodia, China’s south-central and southeast areas, East Himalaya, India, and various other islands such as Jawa, Malaya, Nicobar Islands, Sri Lanka, Sulawesi, Sumatera, Thailand, Vietnam. This tree thrives in moist to wet conditions, preferring light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils and can tolerate full sun to partial shade. Known for its edible flowers and fruits, Amboina reaches heights of up to 45 meters and is a notable ornamental plant due to its distinctive appearance and utility.
Quick answers
What is Amboina?
Amboina, scientifically known as Neolamarckia cadamba, is a large tree native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent, including Andaman Islands, Assam, Bangladesh, Borneo, Cambodia, China’s south-central and southeast areas, East Himalaya, India, an
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Amboina is a large tree that thrives in moist to wet conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. It requires full sun to partial shade and is hardy in temperate regions with zones 10-12. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist but well-drained. Propagation can be done through seeds or cuttings. The tree produces edible flowers and fruits, making it a valuable addition to gardens where space allows for its maximum height of 45 meters.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Habit
Tree
Mature size
45.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Amboina for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple Amboina tree to observe its growth and beauty.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Amboina sapling, well-draining soil, and a large pot or garden space.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather is warm but not too hot.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a mix of light sandy soil, medium soil, and heavy clay for best results. Ensure good drainage.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling carefully, ensuring not to damage the roots.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in a partially shaded area.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade and regular watering. Fertilize with compost once a year.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches as needed. Flowers can be enjoyed but are not typically harvested.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, using the wrong soil type, neglecting pruning, and not providing enough space for growth.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersFruit
Edible uses: The Amboina tree's flowers and fruits are edible. The flowers can be eaten raw or used in salads, while the fruits are typically consumed fresh or made into jams and preserves. Both parts add a sweet flavor to dishes.
Other uses:ContainersCosmeticDyeEssential OilLumberMulchtextilesPest controlPioneerWind breakerSoil conditionerCoppice
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
21 native · 2 introduced
Distribution
21 native · 2 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 21 native· 2 introduced
Asia9 regions
native (9)BangladeshCambodiaChinaIndiaLaosMyanmarSri LankaThailandVietnam
Americas2 regions
introduced (2)El SalvadorGuatemala
Broader regions
native:Andaman Is., Borneo, East Himalaya, Jawa, Lesser Sunda Is., Malaya, New Guinea, Nicobar Is., Sulawesi, Sumatera
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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