Overview
Theobroma grandiflorum is a bushy trees in the genus Theobroma, part of the Malvaceae family, with evergreen or semi evergreen foliage. Theobroma grandiflorum 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. It is native to Amazonia colombiana: sur del departamento del Vichada; el suroriente del Meta; todo el territorio de los departamentos de Amazonas, Caquetá, Guainía, Guaviare, Putumayo y Vaupés; la Bota Caucana; y las vertientes amazónicas de Nariño (la parte alta de los ríos Guamuez, Sucio, San Miguel y Aguarico) and Brazil.
About
Theobroma grandiflorum is a sub-tropical tree in the Malvaceae native to Amazonian parts of Colombia and Brazil. It carries evergreen to semi‑evergreen foliage and has an upright, well-branched habit. In the UK it is normally grown under glass where conditions can be kept warm and sheltered. Its main period of activity in cultivation falls in spring and summer.
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
Theobroma grandiflorum originates from the Amazonian regions of Colombia and Brazil and belongs to the genus Theobroma in the Malvaceae. In its home range it is a sub-tropical tree with persistent foliage; in the UK that habit is best accommodated in temperature‑controlled situations. For cultivation give partial shade rather than full sun, a sheltered aspect (east, south or west) and a free‑draining substrate of loam or sandy loam. Aim for an acid to neutral pH and avoid waterlogged conditions; the species prefers well‑drained soil. Its certification as H1a (tender) means it requires a conservatory or greenhouse where temperature and exposure can be managed through the year. Sited as a conservatory or greenhouse specimen, Theobroma grandiflorum suits sub‑tropical displays and planted collections kept for spring–summer growth. Position it where it will receive gentle morning or late afternoon light rather than strong midday sun, and keep it in a sheltered corner of the glasshouse to reduce cold drafts and exposure.
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 grandiflorum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Trees
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen or Semi evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Sub-tropical, Conservatory and greenhouse
- Native to
- Amazonia colombiana: sur del departamento del Vichada; el suroriente del Meta; todo el territorio de los departamentos de Amazonas, Caquetá, Guainía, Guaviare, Putumayo y Vaupés; la Bota Caucana; y las vertientes amazónicas de Nariño (la parte alta de los ríos Guamuez, Sucio, San Miguel y Aguarico), Brazil
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Theobroma grandiflorum
- Propagation
- Semi-hardwood cuttings, Grafting
- Pest resistance
- Mealybugs, Capsid bug, Aphids, Scale insects, Red spider mite, Fungus gnats
- Disease resistance
- Fungus diseases, including Phytophthora
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Theobroma grandiflorum?
Theobroma grandiflorum prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Theobroma grandiflorum need?
Theobroma grandiflorum grows best in loam and sand soil. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Theobroma grandiflorum hardy in the UK?
Theobroma grandiflorum 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 grandiflorum?
Semi-hardwood cuttings, Grafting.
