Terminalia catappa - Indian Almond / Tropical Almond Bring elegance and functionality to your garden with Terminalia catappa, commonly known as the Indian Almond, Tropical Almond, or Sea Almond Tree. This striking deciduous tree is prized for its symmetrical form, vibrant foliage, and multipurpose benefits, making it a favorite in coastal and urban landscapes. Features: Mature Height: Reaches up to 10–25 meters, with a broad, spreading canopy and a tiered branching structure that creates a striking silhouette. Leaves: Large, glossy, obovate leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow before shedding, adding seasonal interest. Flowers: Small, inconspicuous, greenish-white flowers appear in spikes, often unnoticed but attract pollinators. Fruits: Produces flattened, oval-shaped fruits that transition from green to yellow or red when mature, containing an edible almond-like seed. Benefits: Shade Provider: Its wide, spreading canopy provides excellent shade, ideal for coastal areas, parks, and gardens. Erosion Control: The extensive root system helps stabilize soil, particularly in sandy or coastal regions. Wildlife Habitat: Attracts birds, bats, and insects, supporting biodiversity. The fruits are consumed by many animals. Medicinal Properties: Leaves and bark are used in traditional medicine for treating skin conditions, diarrhea, and other ailments. Uses: Ornamental Landscaping: Perfect for creating striking avenues or as a standalone feature tree, its seasonal foliage adds color and drama to any landscape. Coastal Planting: Thrives in saline soils, making it an excellent choice for planting near beaches or in coastal gardens. Edible Seeds: The kernels inside the fruit are edible, often compared to almonds in taste and texture. Traditional Medicine: Extracts from the leaves and bark are used for medicinal purposes in various cultures. Timber: The wood is durable and used for construction, furniture, and boat building. Adaptability: Climate: Thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, tolerating heat, humidity, and coastal winds. Soil: Grows well in sandy, loamy, or slightly saline soils, with good drainage. Drought-Tolerant: Once established, it can withstand dry conditions, making it low-maintenance.
