Cashew Tree

(Anacardium occidentale)

Cashew Tree (Anacardium occidentale)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Anacardium occidentale, commonly known as Cashew Tree, is an evergreen tree native to tropical rainforests, as well as savannahs and dry deciduous forests in the Northern Amazon Basin and throughout Northeastern Brazil. It is well-adapted to hot lowland areas with a pronounced dry season. The tree typically grows to a height of 20-30 feet (6-10 meters) with a short, often irregularly shaped trunk and a spreading canopy. The leaves are leathery and elliptic to obovate. The cashew produces a unique fruiting structure: the true fruit is a kidney or boxing-glove-shaped drupe that grows at the end of an enlarged, fleshy stalk known as the cashew apple, which is an accessory fruit. The drupe develops first, followed by the expansion of the pedicel into the cashew apple. The flowers are small and pale green, turning a reddish color, and bloom in panicles. They are not particularly showy, but the cashew apple is notable for its bright yellow or red color.

The Cashew Tree is valued for its nuts, which are a popular culinary ingredient, and the cashew apple, which can be eaten fresh or used in beverages. It is also grown for shade and ornamental purposes in tropical climates. The tree prefers well-drained sandy or loamy soils and requires a full sun position. It is drought-tolerant once established but sensitive to frost. In cultivation, it is important to note that the raw cashew nuts contain urushiol, which is also found in poison ivy and can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. Therefore, cashew nuts must be handled properly and roasted before consumption. Anacardium occidentale can become invasive in some regions outside its native range, so it is essential to check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 20-46 feet
  • Width: 20-40 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Winter
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption.

Natural Habitat

Tropical rainforests, savannahs, and dry deciduous forests in the Northern Amazon Basin and Northeastern Brazil

Other Names

Common Names: Cashew , Cashewnut , Acajubaum , Kaschubaum , Nierenbaum , Anacardo , Cajuil , Merey , Marañón , Anacardier

Scientific Names: Anacardium occidentale , Anacardium microcarpum , Anacardium othonianum , Anacardium amilcarianum , Anacardium kuhlmannianum , Anacardium curatellaefolium , Anacardium rondonianum , Anacardium occidentale var. gardneri , Anacardium occidentale var. americanum , Acajuba occidentalis

GBIF Accepted Name: Anacardium occidentale L.