Bixa orellana LIPSTICK TREE (20 seeds)

Lipstick Tree, also known as Roucou, Annatto, Achiote, or Urucum, is a small exotic perennial tree measuring 3 to 4 meters in height.
Characterized by rapid growth, it is native to tropical America and belongs to the Bixaceae family.

The flowers are soft pink, fragrant, and composed of 5 petals growing in clusters. They measure an average of 4 to 5 cm in diameter.

Its fruits are magnificent: oval-shaped capsules, 4 cm long, covered in soft bristles, which turn bright red as they ripen. Each fruit contains numerous seeds surrounded by pulp.

Achiote seeds come from Bixa orellana; they are red, angular, teardrop-shaped, and measure an average of 4 millimeters in length.

- Uses:

Medicinal: The Roucou tree possesses many medicinal virtues, notably protecting the skin from ultraviolet rays. It is also very effective against insect bites, particularly mosquito bites. Its leaves and roots are used for various therapeutic properties.

Cosmetics & Dye: The seeds are primarily used for their coloring properties. The natural red pigments are found in food coloring and cosmetics, which gives the plant its common name, "Lipstick Tree."

Historical: It was used by Native Americans (historically referred to as "Redskins") as body paint to protect their skin against the sun, insects, and evil spirits.

- Germination and Sowing:

• The ideal period to sow Lipstick Tree is from May through the end of June.
• Lightly scarify the seed coat with sandpaper.
• Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for 6 to 12 hours.
• Prepare a tray of fine seed-starting compost and bury the seeds only 5 millimeters deep.
• Gently water the culture using a spray bottle.
• Place the seed tray in a greenhouse in a warm, humid location with a temperature between 25 and 35°C.
• Germination generally begins 4 to 6 weeks after sowing.

- Soil Type and Substrate:

To grow it successfully, it is important to use a substrate rich in organic matter, humus-rich, and well-draining.

- Light and Exposure:

The Roucou tree needs plenty of bright light to develop correctly. A full sun location is highly recommended. For indoor cultivation with artificial lighting, prefer neon lights, MH (Metal Halide) bulbs, or horticultural LEDs.

- Temperature and Hardiness:

Due to its tropical origin, this shrub requires temperatures between 25 and 35°C to thrive. It is a frost-sensitive plant that will not survive freezing temperatures. It is imperative to bring the plant indoors for winter or grow it as an annual.

- Humidity and Watering:

Water the plant once a week in winter and approximately 3 times a week in the height of summer. Never allow water to stagnate in the drainage saucer.

- Propagation:

It reproduces via "smothered" (airtight) stem cuttings in a substrate of potting soil and sand during the summer. It can also be propagated by seeds starting at the end of spring.

- Diseases and Pests:

This amazing plant is not particularly sensitive to diseases or pest attacks.