The cashew nut plant, *Anacardium occidentale*, is a tropical evergreen tree that produces cashew nuts and cashew apples. Here are some key details about it:
Appearance
– Tree: Grows to about 10-12 meters (33-39 feet) tall, though it can be shorter in some regions.
– Leaves: Glossy, dark green, and leathery, typically broad and oval-shaped.
– Flowers: Small and cluster together, with colors ranging from pink to white.
– Fruit: The cashew tree produces a unique fruit known as a cashew apple. The nut is attached to the bottom of the apple.
Cashew Nut
– Nut: The edible part is actually the seed of the fruit. It’s encased in a hard shell that is toxic if consumed raw, due to the presence of urushiol, a resin also found in poison ivy.
– Processing: Raw cashew nuts must be roasted or steamed to remove this toxic shell.
Cultivation
– Climate: Thrives in tropical climates with plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil. It can withstand periods of drought.
– Propagation : Typically grown from seeds, but can also be propagated through grafting.
– Harvesting : The fruit is harvested when it falls from the tree. The cashew nut is then extracted from the shell.
Uses
– Culinary: Cashew nuts are used in a variety of dishes, including snacks, desserts, and as a meat substitute in vegan recipes. Cashew apple is also edible and used in juices, jams, and as a flavoring.
– Industrial : Cashew nut shells have industrial applications, such as in the production of lubricants and pesticides.
Growing Tips
– Soil: Prefers sandy, well-drained soil with a pH of 4.5 to 6.0.
– Watering : Needs regular watering, especially in dry periods, but does not tolerate waterlogged conditions.
– Fertilization : Benefits from a balanced fertilizer, especially in the early stages of growth.
If you’re considering growing cashew trees, keep in mind that they need a warm, tropical climate and can take a few years to start producing nuts.
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