The Wild Cashew Tree - Espavé of Panama - a Place to Rest, and Enjoy It's Sweet Candy

Azuero Mantle-Backed Howler Monkeys resting beneath the shade of a wild cashew tree.

Candy from the jungle? It's true. Nature does her best to satisfy everyone's sweet tooth - even the monkeys like candy. Right now, they are searching and feasting on the sweet tiny flowers, and the peduncle - the part that connects the wild cashew to the branch. It's a small, swollen, S -shaped, juicy, green stem that we are all looking for on the ground to eat; the ones that got away from the monkeys!

Fruits of the wild cashew tree

Not only do they enjoy the juicy peduncle, but they also eat the leaves - both are rich sources of nutrients and hydration. The Espavé is a massive, towering tree that is commonly found in the jungles of Panama. Its dense canopy provides a cool shady place to spend a hot afternoon while the countless flora and fauna that call it home create endless hours of entertainment for us and our guests. It's in the same family as the cashew tree but the fruits it grows like you see above are delicacies for the local wildlife like monkeys, squirrels and birds, rather than us humans.

Espavé Tree at Morrillo Beach Eco Resort

Like a sentinel in the forest, this tree stands guard to her surroundings providing habitat, food, protection from erosion, and a wondrous place to rest below. The wood is also an important source for lumber. A medium density wood with beautiful color, it is a highly sought after source for building.

Come stay with us to enjoy a cool, shady spot beneath her canopy, whether from a cozy bed or from your private terrace - it's the most peaceful way to spend a day watching nature thrive.

With love from Panama, Cari and Ryan

Owners & hosts

Espavé leaves, fruits, and flowers