Family: Malvaceae
Scientific name: Bixa orellana
Common name: Achiote, Annato, Lipstick tree, Orlean tree
Origin: South America

The Achiote (sometimes referred to as Annato, Lipstick tree or Orlean tree) is named after Francisco de Orellana. This Spanish explorer was attacked during his trip over the Amazon by Indians who had smeared themselves with the dye from this plant, known today as annatto. The bright red dye can be found in the large, bristly fruits which are 4 cm wide and are often used for lipstick and soap. In food, the dye is known as E160. In tropical regions of South America, the plant is a large shrub up to 6 meters. It can also be kept as a houseplant.

Sowing description: First soak the seeds in water for 24 hours. Then sow them in sowing mix and just slightly cover them with soil. Keep the soil constantly moist and at a temperature of 25-30 degrees Celcius.

Sowing time: Whole year
Difficulty: Intermediate
Minimum temperature: 10 degrees Celcius

Photo 1: Ethnoplants.com
Photo 2: Leonora Enking