Anacardium
Contents
Description
Anacardium is a genus of trees and shrubs native to South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. The most well-known species in this genus is Anacardium occidentale, which produces cashews. Anacardium plants are known for their fruit, which has a fleshy, edible part and a hard, outer shell. The fruit contains a single seed, which is the cashew nut. The shell of the nut has a caustic oil that can cause skin irritation.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Anacardium |
Appearance
Anacardium plants are typically small to medium-sized trees or shrubs that can grow up to 12 meters tall. The leaves are simple, alternate, and have a leathery texture. They are typically oval-shaped with a pointed tip and have a glossy surface. The flowers are small and yellow-green in color, and they bloom in clusters. The fruit is a kidney-shaped drupe with a fleshy part that surrounds the nut. The nut itself is kidney-shaped and has a hard, outer shell.
Care Guide
Anacardium plants are relatively easy to care for, but they require specific conditions to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for Anacardium plants:- Water: Anacardium plants prefer well-draining soil and do not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch, but do not overwater.- Fertilization: Anacardium plants benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.- Soil: Anacardium plants prefer well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH. Avoid heavy clay soils and soils with a high salt content.- Sunlight: Anacardium plants require full sun to thrive. Plant them in a location with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Anacardium plants are hardy in USDA zones 10-11. They are not tolerant of freezing temperatures.
Common Pests & Diseases
Anacardium plants are relatively pest and disease-resistant, but they can be susceptible to some common problems. Here are some pests and diseases to watch out for:- Scale insects: These insects can infest the leaves and stems of Anacardium plants and suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and wilting.- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spots and defoliation in Anacardium plants. It is most common in humid conditions.- Root rot: Anacardium plants can develop root rot if they are overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil. This can cause the plant to wilt and die.
Habitat
Anacardium plants are native to tropical regions of South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. They prefer warm temperatures and humid conditions. Anacardium plants grow best in well-draining soil and require full sun to thrive.
Question and Answer
Q: Are cashews toxic?
A: The cashew nut itself is not toxic, but the shell contains a caustic oil that can cause skin irritation.
Q: How long does it take for Anacardium plants to produce fruit?
A: Anacardium plants typically begin producing fruit within 2-3 years of planting.
Q: Can Anacardium plants be grown indoors?
A: Anacardium plants require full sun to thrive and are not suitable for indoor growing.
Q: Can Anacardium plants be grown in cold climates?
A: Anacardium plants are not tolerant of freezing temperatures and are best suited for tropical or subtropical climates.
Related Plants
– Mangifera indica (Mango)- Psidium guajava (Guava)- Carica papaya (Papaya)- Cocos nucifera (Coconut)
References
– “Anacardium.” Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 21 Apr. 2021.- “Anacardium occidentale.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 21 Apr. 2021.- “Cashew.” Purdue University. Purdue University, n.d. Web. 21 Apr. 2021.
