Consider the following:

How many of the above trees are actually native to India?

(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None

Correct Answer: (a) Only one

Explanation:

Cashew: The cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale) is native to Brazil. It was introduced to India by Portuguese colonists in the late 16th century .
Papaya: The papaya tree (Carica papaya) is native to southern Mexico and Central America. It was later spread to other tropical regions, including India .
Red Sanders: The Red Sanders tree (Pterocarpus santalinus), also known as Red Sandalwood, is native to India, specifically the southern parts of the Eastern Ghats in Andhra Pradesh .

Thus, only one of the trees listed is native to India.

Cashew Tree:
- Scientific Name: Anacardium occidentale
- Origin: Native to northeastern Brazil.
- Introduction to India: Brought by Portuguese colonists in the late 16th century.
- Uses: Cashew nuts are used in cooking and as snacks; cashew apples are used in beverages and jams. The tree also provides wood and resin for various industrial uses.
- Cultivation: Grows in tropical climates with well-distributed rainfall. Major producers include India, Vietnam, and Brazil .
Papaya Tree:
- Scientific Name: Carica papaya
- Origin: Native to southern Mexico and Central America.
- Introduction to India: Spread to India through historical trade routes.
- Uses: Papaya fruit is consumed fresh, in juices, and in various culinary dishes. It is rich in vitamins and enzymes beneficial for digestion.
- Cultivation: Grows in tropical and subtropical climates. Major producers include India, Brazil, and Mexico .
Red Sanders Tree:
- Scientific Name: Pterocarpus santalinus
- Origin: Native to the southern Eastern Ghats of India.
- Uses: The wood is highly valued for its rich red color and is used in furniture, musical instruments, and traditional medicine. The tree also produces a red dye.
- Conservation Status: Listed as endangered due to over-exploitation and habitat loss. Protected under various national and international regulations .