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Anacardiaceae TREE OUTDOOR Placement

Cashew

Anacardium occidentale

Identified By Marcs

The cashew tree is a tropical evergreen tree that produces the cashew seed and the cashew apple. Native to northeastern Brazil, it is now widely cultivated in tropical climates for its highly valued nuts and false fruits. The tree features a sprawling canopy and can grow quite large under optimal conditions. It thrives in warm temperatures with distinct wet and dry seasons. The unique growth habit involves the nut developing externally at the bottom of the fleshy cashew apple. Beyond its commercial value in the global food industry, various parts of the cashew plant have traditional uses in local medicines and manufacturing.

Also known as: Cashew tree Caju

Toxicity & Safety

Is Cashew toxic to pets?

Yes, toxic to pets.

The cashew plant contains urushiol, particularly in the shell oil and other plant parts, which can cause severe contact dermatitis, irritation, and gastrointestinal distress if ingested by pets. Animals should be kept away from raw, unprocessed cashew shells and the tree foliage. While roasted cashew nuts fed in moderation are generally non-toxic, the raw nuts and parts of the plant pose significant health risks to dogs, cats, and other domestic animals due to toxic compounds.

Is Cashew toxic to humans?

Yes, toxic to humans.

Raw cashew nuts and particularly the shells contain anacardic acids and urushiol, the same irritating compound found in poison ivy. Handling unroasted, raw shells can cause severe skin rashes, blisters, and allergic contact dermatitis. Ingestion of raw cashews or shell oil can lead to severe throat irritation, chemical burns, and systemic allergic reactions. Commercial cashews are thoroughly roasted and processed to eliminate these toxins safely before reaching consumers.

Is Cashew safe during pregnancy?

Generally considered safe during pregnancy.

Growth & Dimensions

Height 600 - 1400 cm
Width 400 - 1200 cm
Growth Rate Moderate
Care Level Moderate
Lifespan Perennial

Ideal Environment

Temperature 20°C - 38°C
Sunlight Hours 6 - 10 hrs/day
Sun Exposure Full sun
Soil pH 5.5 - 6.5
Watering Interval 10 - 21 days
Humidity 50.00% - 80.00%
USDA Zone 10 - 11

Tropical Lowlands

Climate: Hot tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons and high ambient temperatures.

Soils: Sandy loam Loam Lateritic soils
Annual Rainfall: 1000 - 2000 mm

Native Regions

Tropical South America
Northeastern Brazil

How to Care for Cashew

How should I handle watering cashew trees?

Water young cashew trees regularly during dry periods to establish deep root systems. Mature trees are exceptionally drought-tolerant and require deep watering only during prolonged dry spells, avoiding waterlogged soils.

How should I handle sunlight and location?

Plant the cashew tree in an open location that receives full sun for optimal flowering, fruit set, and nut development. Ensure adequate spacing between trees to allow full canopy expansion.

How should I handle soil and fertilization?

Provide well-draining sandy loam or loamy soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Apply balanced fertilizers during the active growing season to support robust growth and high yields.

How to Propagate Cashew

How to propagate Cashew by seed?

Sow fresh, mature cashew seeds directly in nursery bags with well-draining soil mix, ensuring the hilum points upward for proper germination.

Common Diseases & Pests of Cashew

What is Anthracnose and how is it treated?

Fungal
Symptoms:

Dark, sunken lesions on leaves, flowers, and developing cashew apples, leading to blossom blight and fruit drop.

Treatment:

Apply appropriate copper-based fungicides and prune away severely infected branches to improve air circulation.

Prevention:

Maintain proper tree spacing, clear fallen debris, and avoid excessive overhead irrigation.

Properties & Benefits of Cashew

Bears Fruit Aromatic Plant

Uses & Health Benefits

What are the benefits of nutritional value in Cashew?

Cashew nuts are rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, plant-based proteins, essential minerals like magnesium and zinc, and powerful antioxidants.

Precautions: Consume roasted varieties to avoid toxins present in raw nuts and monitor portion sizes due to high calorie content.

Key Nutrients / Compounds

Magnesium rich in 292 mg / 100g
Healthy Fats high 43.8 g / 100g

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