Cupuacu (Theobroma grandiflorum) is a rare and highly coveted plant native to the Amazon rainforest, prized for its creamy, fragrant fruit and rich, chocolate-like pulp. Finding this South American tree is challenging in Europe, as it is not cultivated on this continent. Growing a Cupuacu fruit tree can be a rewarding experience, as you nurture a rare subtropical plant and witness its development first-hand and eventually taste this unique fruit.
The cupuaçu plant was grown from seeds sourced from Surinam and carefully cultivated in the Netherlands. It was grown indoors in a controlled greenhouse environment, under full-spectrum LED lights to simulate natural sunlight. The plant thrived in the stable temperatures of 20-25°C, with high humidity levels, ideal for tropical species.
The cupuaçu plant (Theobroma grandiflorum) is a tropical tree with large, fragrant fruits rich in creamy pulp. In Brazil, the fruit is widely used in desserts, juices, and skincare products due to its high antioxidant content. In Peru and Colombia, it's prized for its nutritional value and is used in health foods and cosmetics. The seeds, like cacao, can be processed into a chocolate-like product, making cupuaçu highly versatile and valued across regions.
Shipped with confidence from our nursery in the Netherlands, centrally located in Europe, ensuring swift delivery. Each tree is securely packaged in a special blister in a sturdy cardboard box, guaranteeing protection during transit. This method ensures that your tree arrives fresh and in pristine condition, ready to thrive in their new environment upon arrival. A care sheet is included in the box.
Cupuacu can be grown well in a pot, even in a temperate climate. Ensure the plant receives indirect sunlight and stays in temperatures above 10°C. Use a rich, well-draining soil and water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. Maintain humidity levels of 60-80%, and mist the plant often. Fertilize every 2-3 months with organic fertilizer. Hand-pollination is necessary for fruiting, as cupuacu flowers aren’t self-pollinating.
The cupuaçu plant (Theobroma grandiflorum) is a tropical tree renowned for its fruit and belongs to the same family as cacao. Its name varies across languages and regions. In Portuguese, it is “cupuaçu,” which is widely used in Brazil, where the plant is most popular. In Spanish-speaking Amazonian countries like Peru and Colombia, it is also referred to as “copoazú.” Indigenous tribes in the Amazon have their own names for the plant, reflecting its deep-rooted cultural significance in the region.
Propagation Method
Cupuaçu can be propagated through seeds or grafting. Seed propagation is the most common method. Seeds should be harvested from fresh fruit, as they lose viability quickly if dried. To propagate from seeds, plant them in rich, well-draining soil, ideally within 24 hours of extraction. Keep the soil consistently moist, and provide warmth (around 25-30°C) and high humidity to encourage germination, which takes about 10-20 days.
For grafting, branches from a mature, productive tree are grafted onto a seedling rootstock. This method is preferred by commercial growers because it ensures faster fruit production and maintains the desired characteristics of the parent tree. Both methods require attention to water, warmth, and humidity, as the cupuaçu thrives in tropical-like conditions. Careful nurturing helps the plant flourish, even outside its native Amazon region.
If you have any questions or are not satisfied with your order, please don't hesitate to contact us through the following link: Customer Support.
For any inquiries regarding the care of your plant, you can find detailed care instructions here: Plant Care Guide.
