🍫 Cacao Tree (Theobroma cacao) – Grow chocolate at home

The cacao tree bears colorful pods right on its trunk. In warm greenhouses/indoors it prefers bright filtered light, high humidity and steady warmth. Discreet flowers; fruit set improves with hand pollination.

Highlights

• Ornamental pods and glossy leaves.
• Educational crop—from pod to chocolate.
• Tropical showpiece for warm, humid spaces.

Care

• Light: bright, non-scorching (bright shade).
• Temp: 72–86 °F (22–30 °C); protect from chill.
• Humidity: 60–80% (misting, trays, greenhouse).
• Mix: rich, well-drained, slightly acidic.
• Water: regular; never waterlogged.
• Pollinate: fine brush morning/evening to boost set.