Anacardium occidentale (Cashew Nut Tree)

The Cashew Nut Tree is a tropical evergreen tree that is native to Brazil. It is known for its cashew nuts, which are actually the seeds of the cashew apple. The tree has a short trunk and a spreading canopy of large, glossy leaves. In the spring, it produces small, fragrant flowers that develop into the cashew apple and the nut. The cashew nut tree is cultivated for both its nuts and the fruit, which is used to make juices, jams, and jellies.