Sterculia quadrifida, commonly known as Peanut-Tree, is a deciduous tree native to the dry rainforests and monsoon forests Australia and New Guinea. It typically grows to a height of 10-15 meters (33-49 feet) with a spreading canopy that provides dappled shade. The bark is a light grey, offering a striking contrast to the dark green, broad egg-shaped or sometimes heart-shaped leaves at the base. The flowers are greenish-yellow, borne in small clusters in the upper axils, and appear from November to January, which corresponds to the summer season in Australia. The flowers are not particularly showy but are followed by notable seed pods that are orange on the outside and orange or red inside when ripe, containing up to 8 black seeds that resemble peanuts in taste.

The Peanut-Tree is valued for its edible seeds and as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks. It is also used in reforestation projects and as a food source for wildlife. The tree is relatively easy to maintain, requiring full sun and medium amounts of water, thriving in well-drained soils. It is not commonly afflicted by serious diseases or pests, making it a resilient choice for cultivation. However, it is important to note that the seeds should be handled with care due to their bitter coating, which must be removed before consumption.CC BY-SA 4.0