Bixa Arborea
Bixa arborea Huber
Bixa arborea is a rare Amazonian tree closely related to the well-known annatto (Bixa orellana). It produces showy flowers and seeds used as natural dyes and food colorants, carrying deep cultural significance in South American traditions.
Bixaceae
Seasonal, typically in the rainy season of tropical South America
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: corymbia ficifolias and prostanthera rotundifolias also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Bixa arborea is closely tied to the rich botanical heritage of Amazonia. As a forest relative of the economically important annatto tree (Bixa orellana), it carries the same deep cultural significance associated with natural dyes and body paints used by indigenous peoples of South America for centuries. The vivid red and yellow pigments derived from Bixa species have been used in ritual, ceremony, and daily life, making this tree a living symbol of cultural identity and the intimate relationship between Amazonian peoples and their forest environment.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates full sun as a fast-growing pioneer species
Water
High; thrives in consistently moist tropical soils and rainforest conditions
Soil
Deep, Fertile, Moist, Well-drained
Expert Growing Tips
Best suited to humid tropical climates; not frost tolerant
Plant in deep, fertile, moist soil for optimal growth
Can be propagated by seed; a relatively fast-growing species
Useful as a pioneer tree when restoring native Amazonian woodland
Provide ample space as it develops a dense, pyramidal crown
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Ornamental tree for tropical landscaping due to showy flowers
- Used in agroforestry and native forest restoration plantings
- Pioneer species for rainforest habitat regeneration
Traditional Uses
- Seeds used similarly to Bixa orellana (annatto) as a natural colorant
- Ground red seeds used as a food colorant in indigenous communities
- Yellow pigment from the seed coat used as a natural dye
- Traditional medicinal applications documented in Amazonian ethnobotany
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Bixa Arborea
What is Bixa arborea?
Bixa arborea is a rare evergreen tree native to the Amazon basin of South America. It is closely related to the well-known annatto shrub (Bixa orellana) and produces similar seeds used as natural dyes and colorants.
How is Bixa arborea different from Bixa orellana?
While both belong to the same genus, Bixa arborea is a larger forest tree growing up to 11 meters tall with a denser, more pyramidal crown, whereas Bixa orellana is typically a smaller shrub or small tree. Bixa arborea is also less commercially cultivated and is considered threatened in parts of its range.
What are the uses of Bixa arborea seeds?
The seeds of Bixa arborea can be used as a red colorant for foods and a source of yellow dye from the seed coat, similar to the well-known annatto pigment. They have also been used in traditional medicine within indigenous Amazonian communities.
Is Bixa arborea endangered?
Bixa arborea is included on the Red List of threatened species for the state of Espirito Santo in Brazil, reflecting concern about deforestation and habitat loss in parts of its native range within the Atlantic Forest and Amazon regions.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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