The Largest Cashew Tree in the World is 1,000 Years Old and Covers an Area of About 8,000 Square Meters

This is a single tree.

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The largest cashew tree in the world. Image credit: bloglevitatur

In the northeastern region of Brazil lies a delightful treasure known as the Cashew of Pirangi. Renowned for its majestic size and unparalleled beauty, this remarkable cashew tree leaves a lasting impression on all who see it.

Located in Pirangi do Norte, a small town near Natal in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, the Cashew of Pirangi holds the title of the world’s largest cashew tree according to the Guinness World Records.

Spanning an impressive area between 7,300 square metres (1.8 acres) and 8,400 square metres (2.1 acres), the colossal tree extends its branches far and wide, creating a stunning canopy that surprises all who encounter it. Having the size of 70 normally sized cashew trees, it has a circumference of 500 m (1,600 ft).

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A sea of canopy. Image credit: Marina Almeida

Beside its size, the other thing that makes the Cashew of Pirangi truly remarkable is its age. Estimated to be over 1,000 years old, this venerable tree has stood witness to countless generations, bearing witness to the ever-changing world around it.

Throughout the year, the Cashew of Pirangi graces visitors with its lush green foliage. However, the best time to visit is during the cashew fruit season, which typically occurs between November and January. At this time, the tree becomes a spectacle of vibrant colors as its branches become adorned with clusters of bright red, bell-shaped cashew fruits, of which the tree produces about 60,000 pieces every year!

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‘Inside’ the tree. Image credit: Wolfhardt
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 The tree produces about 60,000 pieces of cashew fruit each year. Image credit: bloglevitatur

In addition to its beauty, the Cashew of Pirangi holds cultural and historical significance for the local community. It is believed that the tree’s ancestors were brought from Portuguese colonies in Africa, showing Brazil’s rich heritage and the influences that have shaped its culture over the centuries. The tree has become a symbol of pride and a source of inspiration for the people of Pirangi do Norte, connecting them to their roots (literally) and nature.

Visiting the Cashew of Pirangi is an unforgettable experience. The tree’s expansive canopy provides a cool and serene atmosphere, perfect for leisurely strolls and quiet contemplation.

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    The surrounding gardens offer a peaceful respite, where visitors can relax and enjoy the tranquility of nature. There is also a small market nearby where one can sample and purchase a variety of cashew-related products, including cashew nuts, juices, sweets, and liqueurs.

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    View of the tree from a nearby road. Image credit: Marina Almeida

    Walking beneath the shade of the Cashew of Pirangi, you can’t help but feel connected to nature and appreciate the incredible lifespan of this tree. Its massive form embodies nature’s resilience and the importance of caring for our environment.

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    Written by Tamás Varga
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    A sociologist and English major by degree, I've worked in the area of civil society & human rights and have been blogging in the fields of travel, nature & science for over 20 years.

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