Overview
Theobroma bicolor is a plant with a bushy habit in the genus Theobroma, part of the Malvaceae family, with evergreen, semi-evergreen foliage. Theobroma bicolor grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1A. Suggested uses include sub-tropical and conservatory and greenhouse.
About
Theobroma bicolor is a well-branched member of the Malvaceae with evergreen to semi-evergreen foliage. It favours partial shade and a sheltered east-, south- or west-facing position in a conservatory or greenhouse. The plant prefers well-drained loam or sandy soils with an acid to neutral pH. It is classed H1A (tender) in the UK and requires winter protection under glass.
About the genus
Theobroma is a genus of flowering plants in the mallow family, Malvaceae. It was previously classified as a member of Sterculiaceae, which has been incorporated into Malvaceae to make it monophyletic. It contains 41 species of small understory trees native to the tropical forests of Central and South America.
Wikipedia contributors, "Theobroma", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Theobroma
In the garden
A member of the genus Theobroma in the Malvaceae, Theobroma bicolor presents as a well-branched, evergreen to semi-evergreen plant recommended for sub-tropical displays. It is primarily grown under cover, where filtered light and protection from cold drafts preserve foliage through the cooler months. Place Theobroma bicolor in partial shade on an east-, south- or west-facing bench or border within a conservatory or greenhouse. Use a free-draining medium based on loam or sand and avoid sustained waterlogging; the species prefers soils in the acid to neutral range. The recorded UK hardiness is H1A, meaning it is tender and should not be exposed to frost — heated or frost-free glasshouses are appropriate for winter. In UK cultivation it is best treated as a conservatory specimen rather than a permanently outdoor shrub. A sheltered position under glass keeps leaf condition steady and reduces stress from cold exposure. For winter care, keep the plant in a frost-free environment and monitor drainage to prevent root-saturation under cool conditions.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Theobroma
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1A
Plant details
Theobroma bicolor size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen, Semi-evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Sub-tropical, Conservatory and greenhouse
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Theobroma bicolor
- Propagation
- Semi-hardwood cuttings, Grafting
- Pest resistance
- Mealybugs, Capsid bug, Aphids, Scale insects, Red spider mite, Fungus gnats
- Disease resistance
- Phytophthora
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Theobroma bicolor?
Theobroma bicolor prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Theobroma bicolor need?
Theobroma bicolor grows best in loam and sand soil. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Theobroma bicolor hardy in the UK?
Theobroma bicolor has an RHS hardiness rating of H1a, meaning it needs tropical warmth above 15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Theobroma bicolor?
Semi-hardwood cuttings, Grafting.
