Cupuassu
Theobroma grandiflorumfam. Malvaceae
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Pl. 53BD — Theobroma grandiflorum
Theobroma grandiflorumTheobroma grandiflorumTheobroma grandiflorumTheobroma grandiflorumTheobroma grandiflorumTheobroma grandiflorumTheobroma grandiflorumTheobroma grandiflorumTheobroma grandiflorumTheobroma grandiflorumTheobroma grandiflorumTheobroma grandiflorumTheobroma grandiflorumTheobroma grandiflorum
IOverview
Overview
Cupuassu, scientifically known as Theobroma grandiflorum and belonging to the Malvaceae family, is a tree native to regions including Bolivia, Brazil North, Guyana, Honduras, and Venezuela. This plant thrives in partial sun or shade, requiring moist conditions and medium to heavy clay soil. Growing up to 10 meters tall, it is valued for its edible fruit and seeds. Cupuassu is known for its distinctive large, white flowers and the creamy, sweet fruit that resembles a cross between a banana and an avocado.
Quick answers
What is Cupuassu?
Cupuassu, scientifically known as Theobroma grandiflorum and belonging to the Malvaceae family, is a tree native to regions including Bolivia, Brazil North, Guyana, Honduras, and Venezuela. This plant thrives in partial sun or shade, requiring moist conditions and medium to heavy clay soil.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Cupuassu thrives in partial sun to shade and prefers moist, medium to heavy (clay) soil. It is hardy in zones 10-12 and can grow up to 10 meters tall. For optimal growth, ensure the plant receives adequate water and nutrients. Propagation can be done through seeds.
Light
Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
10.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Cupuassu for the first time
8steps
Start with a small, healthy cupuassu sapling for your first planting experience.
- 1
What you'll need
A young cupuassu sapling, well-draining soil, and a large container or garden space.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when temperatures are consistently above 10°C (50°F) and there is no risk of frost.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a mix of medium to heavy, well-draining soil. Ensure the container or garden bed has good drainage.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling carefully, ensuring not to damage the roots. Water thoroughly after planting.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in a partially shaded area to avoid direct sunlight.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry periods, and provide partial shade. Fertilize with a balanced plant food every few months.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the tree lightly in late winter to encourage new growth and maintain shape. Harvest fruit when they are fully ripe and show color changes.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, not providing enough shade, and neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSeed
Edible uses: Oil, Chocolate, Drink
Other uses:CosmeticLumberoilFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 2 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 2 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 5 native· 2 introduced
Americas4 regions
native (4)BoliviaGuyanaHondurasVenezuela
Broader regions
native:Brazil North
introduced:Trinidad-Tobago, Windward Is.
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Malvaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Malvaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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