ACHIOTE - BIXA
Botanical Name: Bixa orellanaDescription
Other Names: Lipstick Tree
Also known as annatto or the Lipstick tree, originates from South America and has spread in popularity to many parts of Asia. It is very popular in Philippine cooking. Grows and a dense small tree or shrub. The heart shaped fruits are brown or reddish brown at maturity, and are covered with short stiff hairs. When fully mature the fruits split open exposing the numerous dark red seeds. While the fruit itself is not edible, the orange-red pulp that covers the seed is used as a commercial food colouring and dye (similar to turmeric). The achiote dye is prepared by stirring the seeds in water, and is popular in South America and Asia to colour rice, desserts, butter, cheese, and many other foods. In the Philippine Islands the seeds are ground and used as a condiment. Tree is extremely beautiful in full flowering and fruiting. Can be grown in a container, prefers a frost-free climate.
Plant Information or Specifications
Preferred Climate
Tropical, Subtropical
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Max Height (when in the ground with good conditions)
2-5m
Plants required to Pollinate
1 (Self Pollinating)
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Can it Handle Frosts?
Sometimes
Amount of leaves in Winter?
All Leaves (Evergreen)
Suitability in Pots
Yes
Water Requirements
Moderate Watering
Is it a Dwarf Fruit Tree?
Can be pruned to 2m
Time to Fruit/Flower/Harvest
2-3 Years
Sun or Shade
Full (Sun:80%-100%)
Preferred Soil Type
Good Drainage
Soil pH
Neutral (6.6-7.3pH)
Fruiting/Harvest Months
April, May, June, July, August, September
Customer Comments on Achiote - Bixa
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Customer Feedback
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Achiote - Bixa (Seedling) Kath's Edible FruitsUpdate: 2105 days 7hrs Comments: - It is beautiful and interesting. Planted: 2011 Growing: In the Ground Sun/Shade: Full Shade Was this review helpful? Yes | No | Report 2 of 4 people found this review useful |
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