Cashew (Anacardium occidentale) is a tropical evergreen tree native to the Americas, valued for its kidney-shaped nuts, which are botanically classified as seeds. The cashew nut is encased in a hard shell at the bottom of the cashew apple, a juicy, pear-shaped pseudofruit.
Habitat: Cashew trees thrive in tropical climates with well-drained soil and ample sunlight. They are commonly found in coastal regions and are tolerant of salty soils.
- Light: Full sun.
- Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil.
- Watering: Regular watering during dry periods.
- Maintenance: Pruning to shape the tree and remove dead or diseased branches is beneficial. Cashew trees are relatively low-maintenance once established.
Additional Information: Cashew nuts are highly nutritious and are consumed worldwide as a snack or used in culinary applications, especially in confectionery and Asian cuisine. The cashew apple, though not as widely marketed, is used to make beverages, jams, and preserves in some regions. The shell of the nut contains an irritating oil similar to that found in poison ivy, making careful processing necessary to avoid skin irritation.
