Anacardium occidentale Cashew nut The cashew nut isn't technically a nut. It's native to South America, so the word cashew comes from the Brazilian Portuguese word 'caju', which comes from the indigenous Tupi word 'acajú', meaning "nut that produces itself". Such description is scientifically apt considering that a nut is a fruit whose hard shell does not open on its own to release the kernel seed, it relies on predation or decay. The cashew, however, is a true dried fruit, t

Schinus terebinthifolia Brazilian peppertree Red-aroeira is a vulnerable plant in its native region of Argentina, Paraguay and Brazil, but it has enjoyed prominence in regions where it is considered exotic, such as the United States. Its leaves have antimicrobial properties, and its pink-peppercorn seed is a sweet and fruity culinary treat. This tree has been a valuable resource for Indigenous Guarani communities, and was traditionally used in the treatment of rheumatic pains

Cereus jamacaru Mandacaru The Mandacaru is a cactus native to Brazil, found mainly in the Northeastern region, such as in Bahia, Pernambuco and Ceará. It is a plant that can reach more than 5 meters, with a branched and thorny trunk. Its flowers are large, white and bloom at night, while its fruits are red and round, containing small black seeds. It is a highly venerated species in Brazil’s northeastern culture, mainly because it tolerates arid soils, common in its droughty h