Bixa orellana, also known as Annatto, Achiote or Orlean, is a tropical shrub or small tree best known for its bright red seeds.

Origin

• Originally native to tropical South America.
• Cultivated for centuries by indigenous peoples (Mayans, Aztecs, Incas, and Amazonian tribes).
• Now grown worldwide in tropical regions, especially in Latin America, Africa, India, and Southeast Asia.

Care

• Grows as a shrub or small tree up to 3–6 m tall with large, heart-shaped leaves and pink-white flowers.
• Needs full sun for good growth and seed production.
• Plant in fertile, well-drained soil (slightly acidic to neutral).
• Watering: regular during establishment; moderate thereafter (tolerates short dry periods).
• Not hardy – does not tolerate frost. In the UK/Northern Europe, always grow as a container plant and overwinter frost-free (min. 10–15 °C, bright spot).
• Fertilisation: balanced fertiliser during the growing season.
• Prune lightly after flowering to keep the plant compact.

Usage

• Culinary uses: the seeds provide a beautiful orange-red dye and a mild, earthy, nutty flavour. Widely used in Latin American, Caribbean, and Filipino dishes (rice, chicken, fish, soups, annatto oil).
• Natural dye: used for cheese (e.g. Red Leicester, Mimolette), butter, margarine, textiles, and cosmetics.