Cacao Tree
Theobroma cacao
Theobroma cacao, commonly known as the cacao or cocoa tree, is a tropical evergreen species …
Devil's cotton (Theobroma augustum)
Silhouette: T. Michael Keesey
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Theobroma augustum: Wild Cacao Relative Profile
Inhabiting the dense, humid river basins of northern South America, Theobroma augustum contributes to the immense biological diversity of the Amazonian understory. This wild understory tree is closely related to the commercial cacao but remains largely uncultivated. It thrives in highly humid environments under the protective canopy of tall forest trees.
Taxonomy
- ∟ царство Plantae
- ∟ division Tracheophytes (Vascular Plants)
- ∟ subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
- ∟ Angiosperms
- ∟ mesangiosperms (Core angiosperms)
- ∟ eudicots
- ∟ Superrosids
- ∟ rosids
- ∟ malvids
- ∟ order Malvales
- ∟ family Malvaceae
- ∟ subfamily Byttnerioideae
- ∟ genus Theobroma (Cacao trees)
- ∟ species Theobroma augustum (Devil's cotton)
Morphology
This species exhibits a growth habit typical of understory trees in the wet tropics. Key morphological features include:
- Foliage: The leaves are alternate, oblong-lanceolate, and feature a coriaceous texture.
- Inflorescences: Tiny flowers emerge in clusters along the trunk and main branches, adapted for pollination by specialized small insects.
- Seed Pods: The fruit is a subglobose or ellipsoid pod with a leathery exocarp, housing seeds within a pulpy chamber.
Interesting facts
The specific name augustum hints at its majestic appearance among the wild forest undergrowth. Genetic studies of such wild relatives are increasingly important for understanding the evolutionary history of the genus Theobroma. These wild populations serve as crucial genetic reservoirs for future agricultural research.
Geography of distribution
- Brazil
- Colombia
Sources
- POWO: Plants of the World Online (Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew)
- GBIF: Global Biodiversity Information Facility
- WFO: World Flora Online
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