Anacardium occidentale
Family: Anacardiaceae
Common Name: Cashew Tree
Anacardium occidentale, or Cashew Tree, is a medium-sized, evergreen tree native to northeastern Brazil. It is widely cultivated in tropical regions for its edible nuts, known as cashews, and its accessory fruit, the cashew apple. The tree grows up to 12 meters in height and thrives in well-drained sandy or loamy soils under warm, humid conditions. Cashew nuts are a popular snack and ingredient, while the cashew apple is used in beverages and preserves. The tree also provides oil and resin with industrial applications, making it economically significant.