Annatto, Bixa orellana, Shendri, Sindur (Orange Color) - Plant

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Annatto Bixa orellana (Orange Color) Plant, offered by Vermi Organics. This tropical beauty, also known as Shendri or Sindur, graces your outdoor spaces with its distinctive orange-colored fruits. From its lush foliage to the rich history of its natural dye, Annatto is a captivating addition to any garden. Explore the enchanting characteristics and myriad uses of this plant, now available for cultivation through Vermi Organics.

About: Annatto Bixa orellana (Orange Color) Plant, commonly known as Annatto, is a tropical shrub or small tree native to South America but cultivated in many tropical regions worldwide. Revered for its vivid orange-red fruits, Annatto has a long history of traditional uses, ranging from culinary applications to natural dye production. Vermi Organics is pleased to offer this botanical treasure, allowing enthusiasts to bring a splash of color and cultural significance to their gardens.

Benefits: Beyond its visual appeal, Annatto Bixa orellana (Orange Color) Plant offers a range of benefits that extend from culinary delights to traditional medicine. The seeds of Annatto are a rich source of natural pigments, used for centuries to impart a vibrant orange hue to various dishes. In traditional medicine, Annatto is believed to have antioxidant properties. The plant's resilience and adaptability make it a valuable addition to gardens in tropical and subtropical climates.

Type of Plant (Indoor or Outdoor): Annatto is primarily an outdoor plant, thriving in warm, tropical, and subtropical climates. Its growth habit and size make it unsuitable for indoor cultivation. Plant Annatto in a sunny and well-drained location, where it can receive ample sunlight to encourage robust growth and fruit production. With its tropical origins, Annatto flourishes in the outdoor environment, adding a touch of exotic allure to your garden.

Care: Caring for Annatto involves providing it with the right conditions for its natural development. Plant it in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter, ensuring good drainage to prevent waterlogging. Annatto benefits from regular watering, especially during dry spells, and a balanced fertilizer application to support healthy growth. Pruning can be done to shape the plant and encourage optimal fruit production.

Common Names: Annatto goes by various common names, reflecting its cultural significance across different regions. In India, it is known as "Shendri" or "Sindur," capturing its use as a natural dye and spice. Embrace the diversity of common names that highlight the plant's cultural connections and versatility.

Specifications:

• Botanical Name: Bixa orellana
• Family: Bixaceae
• Type: Shrub or small tree
• Height: 10 to 20 feet
• Spread: 10 to 15 feet
• Sunlight: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil
• Watering: Regular
• Flowering: Summer to fall
• Fruiting: Fall to winter

Special Features: The special features of Annatto lie in its striking orange-red fruits and the cultural significance of its natural dye. The fruits, which are capsule-like in appearance, contain seeds covered with a reddish-orange pulp. This pulp is rich in the natural pigment annatto, widely used to add color to various dishes, textiles, and cosmetics. The ornamental value of Annatto is enhanced during the fruiting season, as the vibrant capsules dangle from the branches, creating a visually stunning display.

Uses: Annatto serves a multitude of purposes, making it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes. The seeds of Annatto are a prized spice in many cuisines, imparting a mild, peppery flavor and a distinct orange color to dishes. The natural dye extracted from the seeds is widely used in traditional and modern textiles, cosmetics, and even as a coloring agent in food products. Annatto is also valued for its ornamental appeal, making it a picturesque addition to tropical and subtropical gardens.