Adenanthera pavonina Red Bead Tree Seeds

About this species

Adenanthera pavonina is an accepted species in the Fabaceae family. Kew records it as a tree native from tropical Asia to northern Australia and associated mainly with wet tropical habitats. It is commonly known as red bead tree or red sandalwood and bears twisting pods that expose hard, bright red seeds.

Sowing guide

1. Lightly abrade one small area of the very hard seed coat without reaching the embryo.
2. Soak treated seeds in room-temperature water and record which ones swell.
3. Sow in a deep pot of loose, free-draining medium and cover to about one seed thickness.
4. Keep warm and evenly moist with good air movement, never continuously saturated.

Scarification only needs to make the coat permeable. Stop at the outer layer and do not cut deeply. Hard seed can emerge irregularly, so retain the label and allow sufficient time before judging the sowing.

Seedling care

Move seedlings gradually into stronger light and pot on before roots circle the container. Maintain warmth, good drainage and regular moisture during active growth. Protect young plants from frost.

This is a long-lived tropical tree and can naturalise beyond cultivation in suitable climates. Check local planting guidance and available space before outdoor establishment. The attractive seeds are supplied for cultivation and should not be treated as edible.