Terminalia catappa, commonly known as Indian almond or tropical almond, is a deciduous tree native to the broad-leaved evergreen forests of Asia, Australia, and the Pacific islands, as well as Madagascar and Seychelles. It can reach up to 115 feet in height, typically with a symmetrical, spreading crown and tiered branches that provide a distinctive silhouette. The leaves are large, leathery, and arranged in a rosette-like pattern, turning red to purple before falling. It produces small, inconspicuous white to greenish flowers, followed by edible, almond-shaped fruits that are green turning to yellow or red as they ripen. The seeds within are also edible and have a slightly acidic taste.

The Indian almond is valued for its shade-providing canopy, making it a popular choice for parks and large gardens in tropical and subtropical regions. It is also used as a street tree in urban areas. The tree is relatively easy to maintain, requiring well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant once established. However, it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils and may suffer from leaf spot diseases. In some regions, Terminalia catappa is considered potentially invasive due to its ability to spread aggressively outside its native range. Gardeners should consult local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0