Indian-Walnut
Aleurites moluccanus
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Indian-Walnut (Aleurites moluccanus) is a upright plant from the Euphorbiaceae family. Easy care.
Complete Care Guide
Light Requirements
Best near south or west-facing windows with sheer curtains. Wants lots of light but not direct sun rays hitting leaves.
Watering
Very drought-tolerant. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Overwatering is the primary cause of death for this plant.
Typical schedule: every 15 days (adjust for season and environment).
Humidity
Tolerates dry air without issue. No special humidity measures needed — works great in air-conditioned or heated rooms.
Temperature
Keep between 55–80°F (13–27°C). Avoid cold drafts, heating vents, and sudden temperature changes.
Size & Growth
Mature size: approximately 36 inches tall × 29 inches wide. Growth rate is moderate. Habit: upright.
Difficulty Level: 2/5
Easy to moderate care. Forgiving of minor mistakes but benefits from consistent attention. Good for beginners ready for a small step up.
Quick Tips
- ✓Water every 14 days
- ✓Prefers bright indirect light
- ✓Humidity: low
Common Problems & Solutions
Yellowing leaves
Cause: Overwatering or sitting in waterlogged soil
Fix: Let soil dry completely before watering. Ensure pot has drainage holes. Reduce watering frequency.
Pale or leggy growth
Cause: Insufficient light — plant is stretching toward the nearest light source
Fix: Move to a brighter location. Rotate plant quarterly for even growth.
Drooping or wilting
Cause: Usually overwatering causing root rot
Fix: Check roots for rot. Reduce watering. Repot in fresh, well-draining soil if needed.
Toxic to Pets
Indian-Walnut is toxic to cats and dogs. Ingestion may cause oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep this plant out of reach or consider a pet-safe alternative.
Browse pet-safe alternatives →Frequently Asked Questions
Is Indian-Walnut safe for cats and dogs?▼
No — Indian-Walnut is toxic to both cats and dogs. If ingested, it may cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing. Keep out of reach of pets or choose a pet-safe alternative.
How often should I water Indian-Walnut?▼
Water approximately every 15 days, but always check the soil first. Very drought-tolerant. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Overwatering is the primary cause of death for this plant. Adjust frequency based on season — less in winter, more in summer.
How much light does Indian-Walnut need?▼
Indian-Walnut prefers bright indirect conditions. Best near south or west-facing windows with sheer curtains. Wants lots of light but not direct sun rays hitting leaves.
How big does Indian-Walnut get?▼
Indoors, Indian-Walnut typically reaches about 36 inches (91 cm) tall with a spread of around 29 inches. Growth rate is moderate. Size depends on pot size, light, and care.
Is Indian-Walnut good for beginners?▼
Yes! With a difficulty rating of 2/5, Indian-Walnut is very forgiving and suitable for beginners. It tolerates imperfect conditions and bounces back from mistakes.
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