Theobroma cacao | Cacao Tree

Theobroma cacao is a small tropical tree best known as the cacao (or cocoa) tree, whose seeds are processed into chocolate and cocoa products. Highly toxic to pets.

Native to: the lowland tropical rainforests of Central and South America, especially the Amazon basin and areas from southern Mexico down through Amazonia.

Water: keep the soil evenly moist but well drained. Water thoroughly and allow excess to drain; avoid letting the tree sit in water. Cacao comes from humid tropical regions, so consistent moisture is important, but soggy soil will lead to root issues.

Light: prefers bright, filtered light or partial shade rather than full, strong sun. In the wild it grows under the canopy, so intense direct sun can damage the leaves. Some gentle morning or late-afternoon sun is fine.

Humidity: high humidity is important. If indoor air is dry, especially with heating on, raise humidity with a humidifier, pebble tray, grow tent or greenhouse.

Temperature: prefers warm, stable conditions, around 22 to 24C by day and no lower than about 18C at night. It does not tolerate cold and should not be exposed to temperatures below about 12C.