Terminalia catappa

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  • Herbarium No: UPH NO. V--870
  • Terminalia catappa
  • L.
  • Botanical Name/Scientific Name: Terminalia catappa
  • Genus: Terminalia
  • Synonym: Buceras catappa (L.) Hitchc.
  • Common/Local Name(s): Almond
  • Family: Combretaceae
  • Botanical Description: Terminalia catappa is a large deciduous tree that typically grows to 20-35 meters (65-115 feet) in height, with a symmetrical, spreading crown that provides ample shade. The tree features a straight trunk with horizontal, tiered branches that give it a distinctive, pagoda-like shape.The leaves are large, measuring 15-25 cm (6-10 inches) long and 10-14 cm (4-5.5 inches) wide, broadly ovoid, and leathery. Leaves are glossy green during the growing season and turn vibrant shades of red, yellow, or purple before falling, adding ornamental value to landscapes. Arrangement: Leaves are arranged alternately and clustered toward the ends of the branches. The small, inconspicuous flowers are borne on axillary or terminal spikes. Flowers are usually white to pale green and lack significant petals, typical of many species within the Combretaceae family. The tree produces an ovoid or ellipsoid fruit, resembling a large nut or a small almond. Fruits are initially green, turning yellow to red as they mature. The kernel inside the fruit is edible and tastes similar to almonds. It is often referred to as Indian or tropical almond. The buoyant fruits can float on water, which allows them to be dispersed by ocean currents, facilitating the spread across tropical shores.
  • Flowering/Fruiting: Flowers from April to July. Fruiting season is generally from August to December.
  • Plant Uses: Nutritional Uses(Edible Nuts & Cooking Oil) and Medicinal Uses.
  • Origin: Introduced
  • Locality: Faculty of Science University of Port Harcourt Abuja Campus.
  • Habit: Tree
  • Mode: Cultivated

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