Cacao, Yellow (Theobroma cacao)

5.0
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars
3 Reviews
Regular price $59.95
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Yellow Cacao is a 20-30 foot-high, evergreen, understory tree in the countries of central and northern South America. Thousands of small pink or white flowers bloom directly on the trunk or older branches of the tree from January to June, but only 3% to 10% of them develop into fruits. Prominently veined, lance-shaped leaves, up to 24 inches long hang from the branches. The thick-skinned, yellow pods, or fruits, are up to 12 inches long, and ovoid like a football, with longitudinal ridges. They have about 60 beans inside surrounded by a white or pinkish gooey pulp. Cacao is a member of the Mallow family (Malvaceae), and its generic name, Theobroma, appropriately means “food of the gods” in Greek.

The white beans are the source of chocolate, cocoa powder, cocoa butter, and chocolate liquor. The Mayans, Aztecs, and Toltecs of ancient Mexico, Central, and South America cultivated the tree and used the beans for currency They dried and ground the beans and mixed them with water to make a beverage that they spiced and sometimes used ceremonially. Spanish explorers brought the beans back to Europe, and from there, the chocolate industry was born.

Cacao trees grow best in dappled or partial shade in rich, well-draining soil. They will only flower in temperatures above 68 degrees and at least two trees are needed since they cross-pollinate to produce fruits. They should be watered regularly and fertilized with a complete fertilizer every 3 to 4 weeks. Cacao is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11, with frost protection.

Plant Type: 
Tropical / Subtropical Evergreen Fruit Tree 

Harvest Season:
Summer, Fall

There may be more than one crop per year. 

Mature Size:
12-25 ft. 

Soil & Moisture:
Well-draining soil that can retain moisture 

Light Requirements:
Full Sun, Part Shade

Self-Fertile:
No, 2 or more plants are needed 

Growth Rate:
Medium

Zone Hardiness:
Outdoors 9-11 with frost protection; Patio/Greenhouse 4+ 

Propagation:
Large Pot Size: Capable to produce within 2-3 years.
X-Large Pot Size: Capable to produce within 2 years.

5.0
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars
Based on 3 reviews
Total 5 star reviews: 3 Total 4 star reviews: 0 Total 3 star reviews: 0 Total 2 star reviews: 0 Total 1 star reviews: 0
100%would recommend this product
3 reviews
  • N
    Nicole
    Flag of United States
    Verified Buyer
    I recommend this product
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    1 year ago
    Super Happy

    Arrived ahead of time just before Hurricane Ian hit. Tree was in perfect condition and my mom is thrilled! Thank you!!

  • J
    Jessica
    I recommend this product
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    3 years ago
    Beautiful

    It took a big journey to get to me, so I was nervous of what shape it might be in upon arrival, but to my surprise it arrived beautifully. It’s happily thriving in my greenhouse side patio now, excited to see this guy grow and hopefully fruit one day 🤞🏻! 💚 always well cared for plants from this nursery!

  • MH
    Marina H.
    I recommend this product
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    4 years ago
    Wonderful tree!

    I received this as a Christmas present and am very impressed with the tree! The leaves all seem very healthy and the tree was packaged well and had a stake for support already. I can’t wait to see it bear pods!

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