Bixa orellana L.

Bixaceae

Bixa, Achote

Origin: The Amazon

The only species in its genus, bixa is grown around the world as an ornamental plant and for the dyes produced from its seeds. It is used to dye fabric and to colour food stuffs. The bristly red fruits remain on the tree for a long time increasing the ornamental effect. It is also used in South America as body paint.

Tree                                                                       Flowers