i;)6 



<i. r. II cotkciu.H. Plate XCVI 



Aiiacardiuui occidcntalc. 



CASHEW NUT. 



This spreading- tree is a native of the West Indies ; and al- 

 though it is seen in several gardens of our Islands, it is not com- 

 mon. The first tree of its kind was planted by Mr. Henry Davis 

 in his grounds at Punahou. The tree grows to a height of from 

 15 to 20 feet. The light-green, leathery leaves are oval and 

 rough, its pink flowers have a peculiar, strong fragrance. The 

 fruit consists of two distinct parts ; the heart-shaped nut or seed 

 and the fleshy, pear-shaped receptacle to which it is attached. This 

 receptacle is from 2 to 4 inches long, is either red or yellow, and 

 is very juicy and astringent. The nut or seed is edible when 

 roasted. It is much appreciated in the West Indies. While being- 

 roasted the fumes are said to be poisonous. 



