Bixa orellana

Annatto, "Achiote," and "Lipstick Tree", Achiote

Message of the Flower

New World

The Mother’s Comment

The result of transformation.

Spiritual Message by the Mother/ Quotes by Sri Aurobindo

We are in a very special situation, extremely special, without precedent. We are now witnessing the birth of a new world; it is very young, very weak—not in its essence but in its outer manifestation—not yet recognised, not even felt, denied by the majority. But it is here. It is here, making an effort to grow, absolutely sure of the result. But the road to it is a completely new road which has never before been traced out—nobody has gone there, nobody has done that! It is a beginning, a universal beginning. So, it is an absolutely unexpected and unpredictable adventure.

The Mother, Questions and Answers 1957 - 1958: 10 July 1957

Colour

bright red to orange-red flowers.

Family

Bixaceae

Cultivars

does not have a wide range of distinct cultivars

Flower Size

small to medium-sized, typically less than 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter.

Flower Texture

soft and delicate texture

Number of Petals

five

Floral Symmetry

radial symmetry

Fragrance of Flower

mild, pleasant fragrance.

Leaf Texture

smooth and soft-textured.

Leaf Arrangement

arranged alternately on the stem

Leaf Color

green

Structural Variation (Shrub or Tree)

a small tree or shrub.

Life Cycle

perennial woody plant

Blooming Period

warm months

Climate

tropical and subtropical climates.

Water Requirements

regular watering and well-drained soil.

Soil Type

Well-draining, fertile soil

Temperature Ranges

warm temperatures and cannot tolerate frost.

Sun or Shade

full sun to partial shade.

Susceptibility to Insects and Diseases

may be susceptible to certain pests and diseases, but it is generally hardy.

Pollinators

insects, including bees

Habitat

native to tropical regions in South America.

Role in the Ecosystem

food source for pollinators.

Uses in Other Aspects of Life

Annatto is used in food, cosmetics, and textiles for its natural coloring properties.

Endangered Status

not considered endangered