Description
Appearance and Origin
The cashew, scientifically known as Anacardium occidentale, is an evergreen tree belonging to the family Anacardiaceae. Originally from the tropical regions of South America, particularly Brazil, the cashew is distinguished by its unusual fruit, known as the cashew nut, which botanically is not a nut but a seed.
Growth
It is a medium-sized tree with an average height of about 8 to 12 meters. It has a spreading crown and broad, glossy leaves. The cashew flowers are small and inconspicuous but appear in large numbers, developing into the characteristic cashew apples, which have a pear-shaped or heart-shaped form.
Cultivation and Care
Cashews thrive best in warm, tropical climates with plenty of sunshine and well-drained soils. They are relatively undemanding and can grow in various soil types as long as they are well-drained. The trees require regular watering, especially during dry periods, and can benefit from occasional fertilization to promote growth and fruiting.
Taste, Use, and Fruit
The fruit consists of two parts: the cashew apple and the cashew nut. The cashew apple is juicy and sweet-sour in taste and is often consumed fresh or processed into juice, jelly, or liqueur. The cashew nut is located at the top of the cashew apple and is surrounded by a hard shell. Roasted cashew nuts are popular as snacks and are also used in numerous dishes, from sweet to savory.
Harvest Time
Cashew trees typically begin fruiting in the third to fifth year of cultivation. The first fruits can be harvested about 2 to 3 years after planting, depending on the climate and location. The main harvesting period for cashew fruits typically occurs during the dry months when the fruits are ripe.
Pollination
It is primarily pollinated by insects, especially bees and beetles. Pollination is an important step in the cashew’s reproductive process and contributes to fruit formation.
