Weeds are among the limiting factors that influence inter-competition for resources, hinder harvesting and low production of cashew (Anacardium occidental L.) in Tanzania. The current study determined the distribution, characteristics and management of Dichapetalum stulhmannii. Distribution study involved a survey for weed presence in south-eastern, Tanzania. The characterization involved assessing the growth and development of weed. Chemical herbicides; glyphosate 480g/l, 2,4D-Dichlorirophenoxyacetic 720g/l, triclopyr 16% and tank mixture of glyphosate and triclopyr at 15, 20 and 25ml/L per 4m2 were tested on tender, mature and blooming stages of weed and three spraying frequencies. Findings revealed that D. stuhlmannii, is a widely distributed shrub weeds with whitish bloms, long taproot and evergreen nature in Lindi and Mtwara regions. Glyphosate and tank mixture at 15mls/L outperformed triclopyr and 2, 4 D across all growth stages. Double spraying of glyphosate and tank mixture bettered frequencies of triclopyr and 2, 4 D. The delayed regrowth of suppressed shrub took 90-120 days after herbicide application. The current study recommends for single or double applications of glyphosate herbicides at 15mls/L on tender or mature D. stulhmannii in cashew farms. Further studies on the economic feasibility and effect on microbiota of apllied fungicides are required.

Keywords: Cashew, Shrub Weed, Botany, Characterization, Herbicides