Cashew Nuts

The Tree

The cashew-nut tree is a fast growing tropical tree growing to a height of 6 -12 m (20 – 40 f). Its evergreen leaves are oval, leathery and dark green. It originates from the Caribbean Island and the North East of Brazil. But today it is grown in several other tropical parts of the world. Mostly in Africa, India and Ivory Coast being one on the leading growers in the West African region. Blossoming takes place between November and January and within two months, fruits are fully ripped and ready for harvesting.

The Fruit (Cashew Apple)

The cashew fruit (Anacardium occidentale) is attached to the lower portion of the cashew apple. The cashew apple is oval-shaped, like bell pepper: yellow, orange or red in color is a false fruit which is also edible. The apple is highly perishable but very healthy. It can be eaten fresh or juiced. Syrup, wine, brandy, gin, preserved fruit, pickles and glazed fruit are also made from the cashew apple.

The real fruit (cashew seed), a more discreet nut is attached to the end of the fake fruit. It is that which contains the edible kernel, which we call cashew nut. The cashew seed hangs at the bottom of the apple, and is C-shaped. In its raw form the cashew kernel is soft, white and meaty.