Bixa orellana

Achiote, Annatto

WhatsApp
Tropical shrub prized for red annatto seeds used as spice and dye. Heart-shaped green leaves with pink-white blooms. Requires warm temperatures and high humidity.
yard Outdoor plants wb_sunny Sun pets Pet Friendly
info

Plant Details

Common Name Achiote, Annatto
Family Bixaceae
Genus Bixa
Species Bixa Orellana
Origin Central and South America
Blooming Pink to white fragrant flowers in summer/fall
Leaf Color Green turning yellow before shedding
Sunlight Sun
Category Outdoor plants
Pet Friendly check Yes
yard

Care & Maintenance

terrain
Soil

Well-draining loamy soil rich in organic matter, slightly acidic to neutral pH

water_drop
Watering

Keep soil consistently moist during growth, reduce in winter. High humidity preferred

light_mode
Sunlight & Care

Prefers full sun for best flowering and seed production. Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy

science
Fertilization

Monthly balanced liquid fertilizer during active growing season (spring/summer)

content_cut
Pruning

Prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead wood

Pest Control Aphid Scale Insect Whitefly

These are the insects and pathogens that commonly interact with this plant, including pests, parasites, and organisms typically associated with its care.

calendar_month

Seasonal Periods

local_florist Flowering Period 1 month
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
eco Leaf Persistence 12 months
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
thermostat

Growing Parameters

thermostat
Temperature
59° – 100°
Fahrenheit
Ideal ambient air temperature range for healthy growth
water_drop
Humidity
40% – 90%
% relative
Optimal relative air humidity the plant thrives in
light_mode
Light (LUX)
1500 – 25000
Lux
Ambient illuminance level at the plant's surface
wb_sunny
Light (PAR)
1200 – 3500
mmol/m²/s
Photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) intensity
water
Soil Moisture
25% – 70%
% volumetric
Water content in the growing medium
bolt
Soil EC
300 – 2200
mS/cm
Electrical conductivity (nutrient concentration in soil water)
favorite