The cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale) is one of the most fascinating and productive tropical trees you can grow. Native to Brazil and widely cultivated throughout tropical regions, cashew trees offer two edible treasures: the cashew nut and the cashew apple. At Inca Plant Nursery, we’re proud to offer cashew trees to growers who want something truly unique and rewarding.
How to Grow Cashew Trees
Zones: Best suited for USDA zones 10–11
Sun: Requires full sun
Soil: Prefers well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
Watering: Water regularly when young; becomes drought-tolerant as it matures
Size: Small to medium tree, grows up to 20 ft tall
Growing Tips:
- Choose a sunny, well-drained spot — cashews do not tolerate wet roots.
- Protect young trees from frost and strong winds.
- Cashews begin to bear fruit in 2–3 years under good conditions.
- Prune lightly to shape and remove dead branches.
Cashew Apple & Nut: What’s the Difference?
The cashew apple is the fleshy, bright yellow-red fruit that looks like a pear or bell pepper. It’s juicy and tangy, often eaten fresh, juiced, or made into jams and wines.
The cashew nut grows outside the apple, enclosed in a hard shell that contains caustic oils and must be roasted carefully to be safe to eat.
Health Benefits
- Cashew nuts are a rich source of healthy fats, magnesium, protein, and zinc — great for heart, bone, and immune health.
- Cashew apples are packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants that support digestion and boost immunity.
- Traditionally used in folk medicine for anemia, skin health, and even anti-inflammatory purposes.
Cashew Recipes
1. Fresh Cashew Apple Juice
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe cashew apples (washed, deseeded)
- 1 cup cold water
- Sugar or honey (to taste)
- A squeeze of lime
Directions: Blend and strain. Serve cold over ice — a tropical immunity booster!
2. Roasted Cashews (at home)
Note: Always roast cashew nuts outside the shell — the shell contains skin-irritating oils.
- Use already shelled raw cashew kernels (not in-shell!).
- Roast in a pan or oven until golden and fragrant.
- Sprinkle with salt or spices.
Enjoy as a snack, topping for dishes, or blended into creamy sauces.
3. Cashew Nut Sauce
Blend roasted cashews with garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and water to make a creamy vegan sauce — great for pasta, veggies, or grain bowls.
Why Grow Cashew?
The cashew tree is ornamental, edible, and practical — with beautiful foliage, fragrant flowers, and one of the most unique fruit-nut combinations in nature. At Inca Plant Nursery, we offer cashew trees ready to thrive in Florida and other warm climates.
Visit us or order online to grow your own cashew tree today.
