Bixa orellana
TAXONOMY
FamilyBixaceae
GenusBixa
Zone10
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Bixa orellana, commonly known as Achiote or Annatto, is a shrub or small tree native to tropical regions of the Americas. It is well-known for its seeds, which are used to produce a natural food coloring and dye. The plant thrives in wet tropical climates and can grow up to 6-10 meters in height.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Annatto
Lipstick Tree
Bixa acuminata
Bixa americana
Bixa katangensis
Bixa odorata
Bixa orellana f. leiocarpa
Bixa orellana var. leiocarpa
Bixa orellana var. orellana
Bixa orleana
Bixa purpurea
Bixa tinctaria
Bixa tinctoria
Bixa upatensis
Orellana americana
Orellana americana var. leiocarpa
Orellana americana var. normalis
Orellana orellana
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterVery Wet
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity80%
GDD2,700
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Bixa orellana requires bright, direct sunlight and thrives in warm, humid conditions. It prefers consistently moist soil and should be watered regularly to maintain soil moisture. The plant does well in moderate to high temperatures and high humidity levels.Harvest
Bixa orellana, commonly known as annatto, is typically harvested when the seed pods turn brown and begin to split open, which usually occurs about 180 days after planting. The pods should be carefully cut from the plant to avoid damaging the seeds inside. Once harvested, the seeds are extracted from the pods and dried. It is important to ensure that the seeds are fully dried to prevent mold and spoilage. Harvesting should be done during dry weather to maintain the quality of the seeds.Soil
Bixa orellana prefers well-draining loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 is recommended for Bixa orellana. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to support its growth and development.Repotting
Repot Bixa orellana when it outgrows its current container or if the soil becomes compacted. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage and fresh, well-draining soil. Repotting is best done in the spring.Propagation
Bixa orellana can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a warm, humid environment, while cuttings can be taken from healthy, mature plants and rooted in a suitable growing medium.Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and size of Bixa orellana. Prune the plant in the early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to encourage new growth. Regular pruning helps to keep the plant healthy and vigorous.Toxicity
Bixa orellana is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it is always advisable to handle plants with care and wash hands after handling.Additional
Bixa orellana is valued for its seeds, which produce a natural dye used in food and cosmetics. The plant also has traditional medicinal uses in some cultures. Regular care and maintenance will ensure a healthy and productive plant.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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