Terminalia catappa aka Tropical Almond

Terminalia catappa is a large deciduous tree reaching 15-40 meters in height with a trunk up to 2 meters in diameter. The species is remarkable for its distinctive pagoda-like tiered branching pattern when young, gradually developing into a broad, flattened, vase-shaped crown spreading 15-21 meters wide at maturity. The bark is brownish-black to gray-brown, peeling in strips and becoming deeply fissured with age.

The leathery, glossy dark green leaves are obovate to oblanceolate, measuring 15-30 cm long, and cluster in rosette-like arrangements at branch terminals. Unusual for a tropical tree, Terminalia catappa is deciduous with spectacular seasonal color changes—leaves turn brilliant pinkish-red, burgundy, yellow-brown, or copper before falling, often twice yearly in tropical climates with distinct dry seasons.

Flowers appear in slender axillary spikes 15-27 cm long, bearing numerous small greenish-white to cream-colored fragrant flowers. The species is andromonoecious, producing both male and bisexual flowers on the same plant. The distinctive fruits are woody drupes 3-8 cm long with two lateral wings running longitudinally, progressing from green to yellow and finally ripening to red or reddish-brown. Inside lies a single edible kernel with an almond-like flavor.

Native to tropical Asia, northern Australia, and the Pacific islands, this coastal specialist demonstrates exceptional salt tolerance, drought resistance once established, and remarkable adaptability to poor sandy soils. The extensive fibrous root system provides critical coastal erosion control, while the tree serves important ecological functions supporting numerous wildlife species. Various plant parts possess significant medicinal properties, particularly for liver conditions and diabetes, validated by modern scientific research showing hepatoprotective and antidiabetic activities.