Cashew refers to both the tree (Anacardium occidentale) and its edible seed, which is commonly known as a cashew nut. The cashew tree is native to northeastern Brazil but is now cultivated in various tropical regions around the world.
The cashew nut is a kidney-shaped seed that grows at the bottom of the cashew apple, which is the swollen part of the cashew fruit. The outer shell of the cashew nut contains a toxic resin called urushiol, which can cause skin irritation and must be carefully removed before consumption.
