Plant guide

Tamanu.

Calophyllum inophyllum

Pronounced ka-lo-FIL-um in-oh-FIL-um

Also known as Alexandrian Laurel, Alexandrian-laurel, Beach Calophyllum, Beautyleaf, Borneo Mahogany, Borneo-mahogany, Indian doomba oiltree, Indian-laurel

The tamanu tree is a beautiful, slow growing evergreen known for its glossy, dark green leaves and fragrant white flowers. It thrives in coastal areas and is highly valued for the rich oil extracted from its seeds. It makes a lovely ornamental tree if you have the space for its wide, spreading canopy.

At a glance

Care level: Moderate
Plant type: Evergreen tree
Light: Full sun
Indoor light: Direct sun
Water: Every 7 to 14 days
Mature size: 20 to 30 meters
Growth rate: Slow

Care

This tree prefers well draining soil and plenty of sun to stay healthy. Watch for yellowing leaves which may indicate poor drainage or overwatering. Keep an eye out for common pests like scale or aphids during the warmer months.

Watering: Water deeply once the top few inches of soil feel dry to the touch.
Feeding: Apply a balanced fertilizer during the active growing season.
Pruning: Prune lightly once a year to maintain shape and remove dead branches.
Repotting: Repot only when the tree has clearly outgrown its current container.
Soil: Sandy, well draining soil
Soil pH: 6.0 to 7.5

Safety

Pets: The seeds and oil are considered toxic if ingested by cats or dogs.

How to identify it

Glossy, leathery, dark green leaves
Fragrant white flowers with yellow centers
Large, round, green fruit
Spreading, irregular canopy shape
Deeply fissured, dark gray bark

Science

Family: Calophyllaceae
Genus: Calophyllum
Order: Malpighiales
Class: Magnoliopsida

Taxonomy resolved against GBIF.

Also in

Plants toxic to cats and dogs

Is your tamanu looking unwell?

This page is a general guide. Pocket Botanist diagnoses problems from a photo of your actual plant, works out watering for your light and conditions, and reminds you when care is due.

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This guide was generated with AI and checked against GBIF taxonomy. It is general information, not horticultural or veterinary advice. Read about how we build these guides.