Terminalia Catappa Viable (Kottamba) Seeds

A native species in Southeast Asia, Kottamba (Terminalia catappa) which is also referred as the tropical almond is currently found in many of the tropical countries including Sri Lanka. Commonly used for shade along roadsides due to its long branches that grows horizontally as well as the large leaves, Kottamba seeds are edible and tasty too. It is however, not grown in large scales while we obtain the seeds from home gardens and locally sourced farm groups that offer the best local produce.

Kottamba Seeds are a much loved snack among the young and old in Sri Lanka and the methodical process to obtain the edible seed from the fruit that comes with a husk like covering brings a nostalgic feeling to anyone who has enjoyed Kottamba while growing up. The seeds are sweet and almond like while they can be consumed in raw or roasted form. Known health benefits of Kottamba include acting as an immunity booster and reducing inflammation.