A conspicuous semi-deciduous tree of coastal areas throughout the warm tropics. Grows best in moist tropical climates.
The tree is well adapted to sandy and rocky coasts and flourishes on oolitic limestone.
The species loses its leaves twice a year in most areas, with a brilliant red-and-yellow display of leaf colour before doing
so. Leaf loss helps it tolerate 1 or 2 annual dry seasons when it occurs. Although Indian almond does grow when planted
on uplands, the natural habitat of the species is in areas just inland from ocean beaches, near river mouths, and on
coastal plains. These areas are typically flat, but they may have dunes or rocky bluffs.
BIOPHYSICAL LIMITS
Altitude: 0-800 m, Mean annual temperature: 15-35 deg. C, Mean annual rainfall: 750-3 000 mm
Soil type: Oolitic limestone. The species grows in greatest concentration on sands and loamy sands. Also found on silts,
loam, and clays. Soil pH is usually neutral to moderately alkaline and rich in bases. However it will also grow in strongly
acid soils. Good drainage is required on clay soils.