Bixa orellana (Achiote; Lipstick Tree) Plant

Description

Bixa orellana, also known as Achiote or Lipstick Tree, is a fast-growing, evergreen shrub or small tree native to the tropical regions of Central and South America. It typically reaches a height of 3 to 6 metres and is prized both for its ornamental value and its vivid red seeds, which are a major source of natural dye.

The plant produces large, heart-shaped leaves that are bright green and glossy, providing a lush backdrop to its delicate pink to pale rose-coloured flowers. These blooms grow in terminal clusters and are followed by distinctive, spiny, capsule-like fruits that split open to reveal numerous bright reddish-orange seeds.

These seeds are covered in a resinous coating rich in bixin, a natural carotenoid pigment used worldwide as annatto dye. Traditionally, the seeds have been used by Indigenous cultures for body paint, food colouring, and in folk medicine, particularly for skin and digestive ailments.

Bixa orellana’s vibrant appearance and usefulness in both culinary and cosmetic applications make it a valuable multipurpose plant in tropical gardens and agroforestry systems.

• Common Name.

Annatto; Lipsticktree

• Specifications.

50mm Pot Size
Seed Grown Plant

Ideal Growing Conditions.

Bixa orellana thrives in full sun and well-draining soils and prefers warm, humid climates.

Pruning: Tip-prune young plants to encourage branching and develop a fuller, bushier shape. Light pruning can be carried out as needed during active growth. Avoid removing too much healthy growth at once, particularly on young or stressed plants.

Pests and Diseases: Bixa orellana is generally hardy, but may occasionally be affected by pests like aphids, scale and mealybugs. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap, Eco Oil or Neem Oil 

Soil: You need a high quality potting mix, not a pre-bagged product such as you find at Bunnings etc, try a landscaping place. However, as I am not local to you I still can’t say if they have good quality or not. You are looking for well composted pine bark and large particles. This ensures air flow to the roots and good drainage. When time to re-pot, select a pot one size up ONLY and ensure it has many holes for good drainage.

Fertiliser: We recommend and use Yates Nutricote Standard Black 270 Day Controlled Release Fertiliser however any good quality slow release fertiliser will do. We also stock an Australian Made liquid indoor fertiliser The Plant Runner Indoor Plant Food which is easy to use and odourless

We cannot send plants to Western Australia & Tasmania due to restrictions.

We strongly recommended to select Express Post shipping for all plant orders to minimise the transit time.

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*Traditional uses and general information on products are provided for educational purposes only. We do not make any therapeutic claims. Nothing contained in this site is intended to be used as medical advice and it is not intended to be used to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes or as a substitute for your own health professional’s advice.