We all love snacking on them, but have you ever wondered about the plants behind those crunchy, hard-shelled treats? These plants produce some of the world’s favorite delicacies. Here’s a look at the unique characteristics of the plants that bring us these tasty harvests.
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++Pistachio (Pistacia vera)
Pistachios grow on beautiful Mediterranean trees that are surprisingly tough. If you live in a cooler climate, you can actually grow them in large containers to bring indoors. With their delicate green leaves, they’re quite the lookers! These trees absolutely crave sunlight and can handle heat and dry soil like a pro. Humans have been harvesting, roasting, and snacking on these little green gems for centuries.
++Coconut Palm (Cocos nucifera)
The coconut comes from tropical palms that love warm weather all year round. While you can keep one as a houseplant if you have the space and the warmth, getting it to actually produce fruit indoors is a pretty tall order. For your next batch of coconut macaroons, you’ll likely still need to rely on the grocery store!
++Brazil Nut Tree (Bertholletia excelsa)
The Brazil nut comes from a true giant of the Amazon rainforest. In the wild, these trees can tower up to 160 feet tall! Because they are native to South America, they aren’t fans of chilly winters. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try growing one in a controlled, warm environment, make sure you start with raw, unprocessed seeds.
++Peanut (Arachis hypogaea)
Did you know peanuts aren’t actually nuts? They grow on a low-growing, herbaceous plant that you can easily grow in your own garden. Since they are annuals, you’ll need to replant them every year. They have a fascinating habit: the flowers bloom above ground, but the “nuts” develop underground. To harvest them, you’ll need to dig up the entire plant, roots and all, to find those crunchy shells.
++Almond (Prunus dulcis)
Almond trees are a fantastic addition to a sunny, sheltered spot in the garden. They are surprisingly hardy and can handle a bit of frost, provided the winter isn’t too extreme. Beyond the delicious nuts, these trees put on a spectacular show with gorgeous pink blossoms in the spring. They add a wonderful Mediterranean vibe to any landscape and are a dream for backyard photographers.
++Common Hazel (Corylus avellana)
If you’re looking for low-maintenance, the hazelnut (or filbert) is your best friend. It grows as a leafy shrub with pretty, rounded leaves. It’s one of the first things to bloom at the start of the year, though allergy sufferers should take note—its pollen can be a bit intense! If that’s not an issue for you, you’ll be rewarded in the fall with a bounty of firm nuts in beautiful reddish-brown shells.
++English Walnut (Juglans regia)
The walnut tree is an absolute classic for larger gardens. These trees produce beautifully shaped, hard-shelled nuts that are just as popular with squirrels as they are with people! Pro tip: let your walnuts cure (store them) for a little while after harvesting. This helps mellow out the bitterness and lets that rich, classic flavor develop. Plus, they stay fresh for months!
++Sweet Chestnut (Castanea sativa)
With their shiny dark brown shells, sweet chestnuts are a true gourmet treat. Unlike the common horse chestnut (which is just for decoration), sweet chestnuts are delicious and versatile. Whether you’re roasting them over an open fire, using them in decadent desserts, or pairing them with savory meats, they are a fall favorite for foodies everywhere.