The cacao tree, also called Theobroma cacao or cocoa tree, is a small evergreen native to the deep tropical regions of the Americas, growing 4–8 m (13–26 ft) tall. Its seeds, commonly called cacao beans, are the essential ingredient for chocolate and cocoa products, while the surrounding pulp can be used to prepare refreshing beverages.
🍃 Leaves: Alternate, entire, unlobed, 10–40 cm long, 5–20 cm broad
🌸 Flowers: Small (1–2 cm), pink calyx, clustered directly on trunk/older branches (cauliflory)
🍫 Fruit: Ovoid cacao pod, 15–30 cm long, 8–10 cm wide, ripening yellow-orange, 500 g (1.1 lb)
🌱 Seeds: 20–60 per pod, high in fat (40–50%) as cocoa butter; contain theobromine, a mild stimulant
Pollination occurs via tiny flies (Forcipomyia midges). The seeds are prized for chocolate production, while the pulp can be fermented into mild alcoholic beverages or fresh juice.
Origin: Southeastern Mexico to the Amazon Basin
Ancient cultivation in Mesoamerica: Evidence from Olmec and Mokaya sites (1900–900 BC)
Used in ceremonial, medicinal, and culinary contexts; sometimes combined with maize, chili, vanilla, and honey
Historical references: Beans were ground by Aztecs and even mixed with tobacco for smoking
The name Theobroma means “food of the gods” in Greek, reflecting cacao’s cultural significance.
🌱 Propagation: Seeds
💧 Pretreatment: Soak 2–3 hours in warm water
⏳ Stratification: 0
📅 Sowing Time: Year-round
📏 Depth: See picture reference (approx. 1–2 cm)
🪴 Substrate: High-quality sterile potting soil
🌡️ Temperature: 25–28°C
☀️ Location: Bright, constantly moist (not wet)
⏳ Germination Time: 2–4 weeks
💦 Watering: Regularly during growth period
Tip: Direct sow outdoors in May for tropical climates.
🍫 Chocolate-making – primary source of cocoa
🥤 Fresh juice – from cacao pulp
🌿 Ornamental plant – exotic tree for gardens and greenhouses
Cacao is not only a staple of the chocolate industry but also an ancient plant with rich historical, cultural, and culinary significance. Discover more about how cacao is grown worldwide and start your own exotic tree collection today!
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| Type of Delivery | Processing Time | Insured | Possible Delays | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 7–10 business days | ❌ | 7–14 days | Basic shipping option |
| Priority | 1–7 business days | ❌ | 3–10 days | Faster processing, not faster shipping |
| Insured | 1–7 business days | ✅ | 3–10 days | Refund if the package is lost (up to €150) |
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