What about it?

The cashew is native to the West Indies, Central America, Peru and Brazil, and it is also found in many tropical countries in Africa and Asia. It can reach a height of over 30 feet. The cashew belongs to a family of plants with resinous bark, which also includes mango, pistachio, poison ivy and poison sumac. The shell or skin, as well as the sap of all parts of the tree, contain a caustic oil which irritates our skin in a way similar to poison ivy.

What is it used for?

The apple-like fruit of the cashew tree can be eaten raw or cooked. The kidney-shaped true fruit is the cashew nut, which must be roasted before shelling to get rid of poisonous oils. Cashew nuts are commonly eaten roasted or used in baking, and are deliciously rich! The nut also yields an excellent-quality oil.

Cashew gum is harvested for medicinal or decorative purposes. This gum is said to be an excellent insect repellent.

Where does it grow? How do we grow it?

The cashew tree will grow in a well-drained soil in tropical climates, and is fairly tolerant of drought conditions after it has become established. It is usually propagated from seed. The cashew needs occasional pruning.

The young leaves are occasionally attacked by thrips, and fruit flies often are attracted to the fruit.

How do we harvest and store it?