Bixa
orellana Annatto,
Achiote, Lipstick tree
Bixa
or Annatto
is well known for its seeds which are used as a spice
and food coloring, often in the world famous
Jamaican beef patties. It is a small tree which bears
pink, white, or purple-tinted flowers.
The name
Bixa
orellana
is derived from Francisco de Orellana, a 16th century
Spanish explorer.
Bixa
is also known as "lipstick tree" because
Central and South American
Natives used the seeds to color their bodies and lips.
Red coloring on outside of seeds easily dyes bare skin.
Several washings with soap are required before color can
be removed.
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Bixa is a small tree with large heart
shaped leaves. |
Bixa leaves and immature seed capsules.
Click image to enlarge. |
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Bixa orellana flower.
Click image to enlarge. |
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Bixa seed capsule and seeds.
Click image to enlarge. |
Plant
Facts:
Common Name:
Annatto,
Lipstick tree
Botanical Name:
Bixa orellana
Family:
Bixaceae
Plant Type:
Evergreen
tree
Origin:
Tropical Americas
Zones:
10B - 11
Height:
to 30', 10 to 15' wide
Rate of Growth:
Medium
Salt Tolerance:
None
Soil Requirements:
Does best in rich, moist, well-drained soil -- although can be grown
in almost any type soil.
Water Requirements:
Drought tolerant
Nutritional Requirements:
Feed with composted cow manure
Light Requirements: Full
sun
Form:
Intricately
branched
Leaves:
Heart shaped to 6" long
Flowers:
White, pink or purple tinged, rose shaped, late
summer and autumn
Fruits: Ovoid
bristly red seed capsules
Pests or diseases:
Leaf spot and powdery mildew. Give protection from
wind to protect leaves from damage.
Uses:
Seeds used as a spice and food coloring. Has a
weak perfumed scent.
Bad Habits: Handling
seeds leaves a persistent reddish-orange color on bare
skin.
Cost: $ --
Very reasonable
Propagation:
Seeds or cuttings
Source:  AMERICAN HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY A-Z ENCYCLOPEDIA OF GARDEN PLANTS
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