Cashew Trees
Anacardium occidentale
Cashew trees produce fruits that have two edible parts. The brightly colored cashew apple is mainly used in beverages, chutneys and vinegar while the cashew nut is mainly consumed fresh after being properly shelled. The nut has many culinary uses such as cashew oil, cashew butter, grounded for garnishes, etc. Both the apple and nut offer many nutritional benefits.
| Cashew Details | |
|---|---|
| Plant Type | Tropical Fruit |
| Evergreen/Deciduous | Evergreen |
| Tree Size/Habit | Spreading to 30 – 40 Feet |
| Fruit Shape/Size | Pear shaped 4-7 Inches Long, 1.5 – 3 Inches Wide |
| Fruit Flavor | Juicy, Aromatic and Sweet (Apple Portion) |
| Skin Color When Ripe | Red or Yellow (Apple Portion) |
| Fruit Use | Fresh Eating, Cooked, Juice (Cashew Apple & Nuts), Oil (Nuts) |
| Fruit Season | Winter |
| Light Needs | Full Sun |
| Water Needs | Regular Water |
| USDA Zone | 9b (with protection) – 11 |
