Rosita de Cacao, Funeral tree (Quararibea funebris)


Rosita de Cacao, Funeral tree (Quararibea funebris)

Large tree taller than 20 ftSemi-shadeFull sunModerate waterWhite, off-white flowersSpice or herb plantEthnomedical plant.
Plants marked as ethnomedical and/or described as medicinal, are not offered as medicine but rather as ornamentals or plant collectibles.
Ethnomedical statements / products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We urge all customers to consult a physician before using any supplements, herbals or medicines advertised here or elsewhere.Fragrant plantSubtropical or temperate zone plant. Mature plant cold hardy at least to 30s F for a short time

Rosita de Cacao, "Drink of the Gods". Rare aromatic tree from Mexico, an obscure spice. Fragrant flowers that are closely associated with cacao, mixed with chocolate and other ingredients to concoct Oaxacan cacao drink tejate, a spicy energy beverage with medicinal and religious significance - "the drink of the gods". The plant is hardy to the 30s F. Round crown shape, does not require pruning and looks nice and neat as a landscape centerpiece or specimen plant; easily grown in container.

Recommended Fertilizer: SUNSHINE Pikake - Fragrant Flower Booster
This item is out of stock. No worries, try these instead!
Grown in
6"/1 gal pot, small plant
 

Plant type
Spice or herb plant
Plant form ?
Tree
Mature height ?
20 or more ft tall
Sun exposure
Full sun or bright light indoor, Semi-shade
USDA zone ?
Zone 9-11.
Hardiness ?
Light freezing, 30F for short period of time, mature plants. Young plants must be protected.
Watering
Moderate watering
Flower color
White and off-white flowers
Growing conditions
Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone, Large backyard
Fragrance
Fragrant plant
Ethnomedical
Ethnomedical plant, traditionally used in folk or indigenous medicine
Plants marked as ethnomedical and/or described as medicinal are not offered as medicine but rather as ornamentals or plant collectibles. Ethnomedical statements or products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. All customers should consult a physician before using any supplements, herbals, or medicines.
More information

This item is not certified for shipping to California, Texas, Louisiana, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands, Arizona More info
California certification
Most of our plants are certified for shipping to California, Texas, Arizona, Louisiana, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, US Virgin Islands, however, certain plants are not certified. Please do not order not-certified plants to addresses in these states. These plants may be added to certification in the future; please contact us for more information. Plant shipping to California, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands and some other destinations requires a phytosanitary certificate. The certificate cost is included into S&H.

Rosita de Cacao, Funeral tree (Quararibea funebris): Planting and Care Instructions

Plant Overview

Growth habit: This plant grows into a tall tree, reaching over 20 feet when planted in the ground, making it a great choice for large gardens or open areas where shade is welcome. However, it can be trimmed to maintain a more compact shape and may also be grown in a large container with proper care.

Growing conditions: This plant can be grown outdoors in the suitable USDA zone. It is ideal for planting in large backyard spaces where it has room to spread, but it can also be trimmed and maintained in a large container with proper care.

Watering: This plant needs moderate watering. Allow the top of the soil to dry slightly before watering again.

Sun exposure: This plant grows well in both full sun and semi-shade. If kept indoors, give it as much light as possible for best growth.

USDA Zone: Zone 9-11. The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map categorizes North America into zones based on average annual minimum winter temperatures, each differing by 10 °F. This map serves as a basic guide for selecting appropriate plants for a region. However, it's not definitive; plant varieties vary in cold tolerance, and young plants typically need more protection. Additionally, local microclimates, like sheltered areas or sunny spots, can influence plant health and survivability beyond the general zone recommendation.

Hardiness: Light freezing, 30F for short period of time, mature plants. Young plants must be protected. Plant hardiness indicates the coldest temperature a mature plant can endure briefly while staying healthy. This rating is a guideline and can vary among varieties of the same species. Young plants often need more cold protection. Additionally, a plant's survival can be enhanced by the microclimate of its location, which may provide shelter from wind or extra warmth, allowing it to thrive beyond its typical hardiness range.

Plant type: This plant is used as a spice or herb.

Flower color: This plant produces white and off-white flowers during its blooming season.

Fragrance: This plant is known for its pleasant fragrance, adding a lovely scent to gardens or indoor spaces.

Ethnomedicinal: This plant has ethnomedical uses and has been traditionally valued in folk or indigenous medicine. Plants marked as ethnomedical and/or described as medicinal are not offered as medicine but rather as ornamentals or plant collectibles. Ethnomedical statements or products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. All customers should consult a physician before using any supplements, herbals, or medicines.

Outdoor planting

Plant in well-draining soil and choose a location that matches the plant light and space needs. Improve poor soils by mixing in compost or organic matter. Dig a hole twice as wide and no deeper than the root ball - planting too deep can harm the plant. For better drainage, position the plant so the top of the root ball is slightly above ground level. Water thoroughly after planting. Outdoor plants may need temporary shade during the first weeks to protect them from strong sun or heat. Watch the soil moisture closely and water regularly until the plant is well established. Apply mulch around the base to help retain moisture and reduce weeds, forming a shallow basin to hold water. Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk or stem to prevent rot.

Indoor planting

Use a container with drainage holes and a well-draining potting mix. Position the plant so that the top of the root ball is level with the surface of the soil - avoid planting too deep. A slow-release fertilizer can be mixed into the soil at planting time to support healthy growth. Place the plant in a location that matches its light needs, and water according to its care requirements. Be careful not to overwater, and ensure good airflow around the plant to reduce the risk of pests and disease.

Protecting Plants in Winter

When it gets cold, some plants need extra help. You can move potted plants indoors or under a covered patio. Young plants need extra protection because they are more sensitive to cold and less established. For plants in the ground, use frost cloth to keep them warm. Stop using fertilizer in late fall so plants can rest. Try to place plants in areas protected from cold wind, rain, and frost.

Cold Hardiness and Microclimates

USDA zone and hardiness are only general guidelines. Actual cold tolerance can vary based on plant variety and local conditions. Even small differences between varieties can matter. Also, warmer spots in your yard—like near a wall or fence—can help plants survive cold nights. These little warm areas are called microclimates, and they make a big difference.

Outdoor and indoor planting instructions