Malvaceae
Cacao tree: Edible Plant
Theobroma cacao
Requires strict tropical conditions: constant heat, very high atmospheric humidity, and nutrient-rich soil. It is sensitive to cold drafts and frost.
Every 5 days
Partial shade
18° - 32°C
70% - 90%
Categories
What is Cacao tree?
Cacao tree (Theobroma cacao) is a hard-care plant from the Malvaceae family. The cacao tree is a tropical evergreen tree native to the deep regions of the Amazon basin. It is world-renowned for producing the fruits whose seeds are processed to create chocolate. The plant exhibits a rare botanical phenomenon called cauliflory, where flowers and fruits grow directly from the t...
Cacao tree grows up to 8.0m, with spread of 400cm, watering every 5 days, 18°C â 32°C, 70â90% humidity. It is suitable for indoor environments and not safe for pets.
Unlike easy-care plants, Cacao tree demands constant attention to humidity and light. Not recommended for beginners. Without precautions, ingestion can cause irritation in pets. Keep out of reach of cats and dogs. Without adequate drainage, root rot can develop within 10 days.
How to Care for Cacao tree?
TLDR: Cacao tree needs Partial shade, watering every 5 days, and temperatures between 18-32°C with 70-90% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Cacao tree?
The soil should always be moist but never waterlogged. Slightly reduce watering if the temperature drops.
How Much Light Does Cacao tree Need?
Prefers bright filtered light. Avoid direct midday sun on young plants, as it can burn the large leaves.
What Is the Best Soil for Cacao tree?
Use a soil mix rich in organic matter (humus) with good moisture retention capacity, but that drains well.
What Pot Should You Use for Cacao tree?
Large, deep ceramic or terracotta pots with excellent drainage to accommodate the taproot.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 30 days
Misting
Every 1 days
Rotate
Every 15 days
Repot
Every 730 days
What Is Cacao tree and Where Does It Come From?
The cacao tree is a tropical evergreen tree native to the deep regions of the Amazon basin. It is world-renowned for producing the fruits whose seeds are processed to create chocolate. The plant exhibits a rare botanical phenomenon called cauliflory, where flowers and fruits grow directly from the trunk and main branches. Its leaves are large, leathery, and bright green, providing a lush appearance.
How to Propagate Cacao tree?
Sowing
- Do not let the seeds dry out before planting
- Use a heated propagator for best results
- 1 Extraction
Remove fresh seeds from the ripe fruit and clean the mucilaginous pulp.
- 2 Planting
Plant seeds immediately, as they lose viability quickly. Place them horizontally in moist soil.
- 3 Germination
Keep in a warm (25-30°C) and very humid place until the sprout emerges.
Materials needed:
Air Layering
- Keep the moss always moist
- Choose branches that receive good light
- 1 Incision
Make a ring cut on a healthy, woody branch.
- 2 Application
Apply rooting hormone and wrap the area with moist sphagnum moss.
- 3 Sealing
Cover with black plastic to maintain moisture and darkness.
Materials needed:
How Big Does Cacao tree Grow?
TLDR: Cacao tree can reach up to 8.0m tall with Medium growth rate.
Max height
8.0m
Spread
4.0m
Growth rate
Medium
Foliage
Evergreen
Warning: Toxic Plant
This plant can be toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of:
Plant Uses
Edible
Can be consumed
Medicinal
Medicinal properties
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Medicinal Uses
- Antioxidant properties
- Improves cardiovascular health
- Natural stimulant (theobromine)
- Mood enhancement
Culinary Uses
- Chocolate production
- Cocoa butter
- Fresh fruit pulp
- Juices and jellies
- Cacao nibs
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
Meaning & Symbolism
Considered the 'food of the gods' by the Mayan and Aztec civilizations, symbolizing wealth, power, and spiritual connection.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fiddle Leaf Fig | Hard | Bright indirect | 10d | â ïļ |
| Round-leaf Calathea | Hard | Partial shade | 7d | â |
| African Mask Plant | Hard | Partial shade | 5d | â ïļ |
| Rex Begonia | Hard | Partial shade | 7d | â ïļ |
