How to Grow Kakadu Plum
Kakadu Plum
Terminalia ferdinandiana
treeThe Kakadu plum is an Australian native tree that produces small, oval fruits with exceptional vitamin C content—up to 100 times higher than oranges. These tropical and subtropical trees are deciduous, shedding leaves during the dry season, and can reach 15-20 meters in height in the wild. The fruit has a pleasant tart flavor and is increasingly cultivated for both fresh consumption and commercial processing.
When should you plant Kakadu Plum in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Kakadu Plum timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Kakadu Plum
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
Harvest Kakadu Plum
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Kakadu Plum dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in tropical and subtropical zones 10-11; requires warm temperatures year-round
Sign up free to see if Kakadu Plum grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Kakadu Plum timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
3-6 monthsSmall plants with soft stems and developing true leaves, tender and vulnerable
Provide shelter from harsh sun and wind; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; protect from frost
Establishment
1-2 yearsYoung tree developing deeper root system and stronger branch structure; gradual height increase
Stake for support in windy areas; mulch heavily; maintain consistent watering; begin light shaping
Vegetative Growth
1-2 yearsRapid height and branch expansion; full canopy development with dense foliage
Prune for shape and structure; thin crowded branches; monitor for pests; continue deep watering
Flowering
3-6 weeksProduction of small, pale green to cream-colored flowers in panicles along branches
Minimal pruning during flowering; ensure adequate water; flowering typically occurs after dry season
Fruiting and Harvest
2-3 monthsSmall oval drupes develop from flowers, ripening to yellow-green color; fruit reaches peak vitamin C at full maturity
Provide consistent water during fruit development; avoid heavy pruning; harvest ripe fruit regularly
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Use exclusion netting; remove fallen fruit; employ yellow sticky traps; consider bagging individual fruit clusters
-
Spray with neem oil or sulfur; maintain tree vigor through proper watering; prune affected branches
-
Hand-remove affected branches; apply horticultural oil spray; encourage beneficial insects
-
Remove and destroy infested branches; maintain tree health to prevent infestation; minimize tree stress
Uses
High-vitamin superfruit and juice
CulinaryKakadu plums are eaten fresh, blended into smoothies, or processed into juices and purees. The tart flavor pairs well with sweeter fruits in products like jams, cordials, and energy drinks. [source]
Immune support and antioxidant
MedicinalIndigenous Australian peoples have used kakadu plums traditionally for health benefits. Modern research confirms exceptional levels of vitamin C and antioxidants that support immune function and reduce oxidative stress. [source]
Skin care and cosmetics
HouseholdHigh antioxidant content makes kakadu plum extract popular in premium skincare and cosmetic formulations designed to combat aging and improve skin radiance. [source]
Jam, compote, and preserves
CulinaryThe natural tartness and pectin content make kakadu plums excellent for making traditional jams, compotes, and preserves with minimal added sugar. [source]
Native food source and habitat
WildlifeAs a native Australian tree, kakadu plums provide important food and shelter for indigenous wildlife, birds, and insects, supporting local ecosystems. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest fruit when skin turns from green to yellow-green, typically December-February in the Southern Hemisphere. Fruit should yield slightly to gentle pressure. Pick fruit regularly to encourage continued production. Handle gently as skin bruises easily. Ripe fruit can be eaten fresh or processed immediately. Store at room temperature for 1-2 weeks or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Kakadu plums contain approximately 2,717-5,434 mg of vitamin C per 100g—up to 100 times more than oranges—making them one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C on Earth.
- 🌱 The tree is named after Kakadu National Park in Australia's Northern Territory, where it grows wild and has been used by Indigenous Australian peoples for thousands of years.
- 🌱 Kakadu plums are deciduous, shedding all leaves during Australia's dry season (May-September) as a water conservation strategy, then fully re-leafing during the wet season.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Kakadu Plum planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Kakadu Plum seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Kakadu Plum timeline →