Description

General aspect and origins - Terminalia catappa, also known as tropical almond, sea almond, Indian almond or Java almond, is a tropical tree that can grow up to 60 ft (20 m) tall and more. It is native to New-Guinea and has spread to many tropical areas in the world. This tree bears edible almonds.
Leaves - Tropical almond has shiny decidious leaves that turn red before falling. The leaves can be up to 12 in (30 cm) long.
Flowers - The tree has greenish yellow flowers. Tropical almond is self fertile.
Fruits - the tropical almond is a green to yellow fruit, that partly turns red when fully ripe. Although its flesh is edible, it is the nut itself which is usually eaten, and tastes like hazelnut.

Culture

Tropical almond is a tropical tree that may be grown in USDA zones 10b and warmer. However, the tree may withstand very slight and short frosts of about 30°F (-1°C) but this remains to be verified.
Soil - Tropical almond needs a well-drained ground.

Propagation

Tropical almond is usually propagated by seeds.