Description
Origin
The annatto tree (Bixa orellana) originally hails from the tropical regions of South and Central America, particularly from the Amazon basin. It has been utilized for centuries by indigenous peoples for various purposes, including as a spice, dye, and traditional remedy.
Growth, Appearance, and Characteristics
It is an evergreen tree or shrub that can reach a height of up to 8 meters. The leaves are oval, leathery, and glossy with a dark green upper surface and a slightly hairy underside. However, the most distinctive feature of the shrub is its fruits, which are about the size of a walnut and are brightly red when ripe.
Cultivation and Care
It thrives best in warm, humid climates and prefers well-drained soils. It requires plenty of sunlight but can also tolerate partial shade. The shrub is relatively low-maintenance and only needs occasional watering and regular pruning to maintain its shape and promote fruit production.
Taste and Use
The fruits contain seeds that are rich in a natural dye called bixin. This dye imparts a bright yellow to orange color to foods and is commonly used in the food industry as a natural food coloring. Additionally, annatto is used as a spice in various cuisines, particularly in Latin American and Caribbean dishes. It adds a subtle spicy flavor to dishes and is often used to color rice, soups, sauces, and meats.
Harvest Time
The first fruits can be harvested about 1 to 1.5 years after planting. The fruits reach full maturity about 4 to 6 months after flowering. They are then brightly red and ready for harvest. Harvesting involves collecting the fruits from the branches and removing the seeds containing the dye.
Pollination
The annatto tree is a flower-pollinated plant, with its flowers pollinated by insects, especially bees. Pollination enables the fertilization of the flowers and the production of fruits with seeds. The fragrant flowers attract pollinators and provide them with food in the form of nectar and pollen.
