The cashew nut tree is native to Central and South America, the nut grows within an outer shell at the end of an edible fruit known as the cashew apple. The shell of the kernal contains a thick caustic oil which can cause severe burns and skin irritation on contact. Caution must be taken when shelling nuts and protective clothing is recommended.
The tree is very attractive, it produces beautiful rose-coloured scented flowers in panicles, followed by the enticing red fruits. It can grow to 15 metres and favours dry tropical conditions especially in coastal regions. It is a fast growing and strong tree that will tollerate dry conditions once it is established. It is best grown in well drained sandy or sandy loam soils. They will not tollerate poorly drained soils and can be proned to damaged from strong winds.
Cashew apples and nuts are highly nutritious, they contain high amounts of vitamin C and are excelent sources of calcium, iron and vitamin B1.
| Height | Frost tol. | Pollination req'd | Evergreen/Deciduous | Harvest period |
| 8-12 | Low | No | Evergreen | August - February |
We welcome your Tips on Cashew Nut Tree. Share Your Tip.
Pour some starch on the nut before you pick it off the tree and it has a more salty taste | Kerry Jackson - Echuca, VIC 24-Oct-2006
Be careful when handling the fruit as it will stain hands and clothing. The fruit is very delicious to eat. | Maryann Connolly - Morisset, NSW 27-Nov-2008
Am interested to plant a few trees but can't find how far apart to plant them or row width. Any help please? | Colin Herbert - Murray Upper, QLD 02-Dec-2008
I HAVE SOME CASHEW NUT SEEDS AND PLANTING FOR THE FIRST TIME THIS YEAR. I AM LOOKING FOR ANY INFORMATION ON WHEN IS THE BEST MONTH TO PLANT THEM. I LIVE IN TEXAS | George Price - Lancaster, TX 05-Feb-2010
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http://www.uga.edu/fruit/cashew.htm
Updated: 19th of September, 2007 at 9:41am © Disclaimer/Privacy/Copyright