Semecarpus anacardium - Marking Nut Tree - Tropical Plants

Semecarpus anacardium, known as the marking nut tree, Malacca bean tree, marany nut, oriental cashew, dhobi nut tree, and varnish tree, is a native of India. It is found in the outer Himalayas to the Coromandel Coast. This deciduous tree from India is famous for its oily nut, which is used in traditional medicine and as permanent ink (washermen's ink) for marking clothes. It is related to the cashew. This deciduous tree is thriving in hot, dry regions like Purulia. The extracts from this versatile tree are showing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-tumor, and potential anti-cancer properties. It is used in Ayurveda for various ailments like skin conditions, but the nut itself can be caustic and poisonous if not prepared correctly. There are wild, unripe Semecarpus anacardium fruits growing on the trees by the side of the road here in Ajodhya Hill, Purulia, West Bengal, India, on January 11, 2026. (Footage by Soumyabrata Roy/NurPhoto via Getty Images)