Our ever increasing warm tropical climate is helping gardeners to grow Cocoa, the chocolate bean tree. Cocoa-(Theobroma cacao) is an ancient crop, grown and harvested for thousands of years by native Central and South Americans. Cocoa trees can grow up to 25 ft and must be planted into a partially shaded area for best growth and fruit production. These trees prefer year round temperatures above 68˚F and never below 40˚F. Cocoa trees have attractive glossy green leaves and striking pods (fruit). Growing in well protected landscapes, and they make distinctive, fascinating, challenging, and enjoyable additions to the home garden. You can see a beautiful Cocoa- chocolate bean tree in the Mounts Botanical Garden 531 North Military Trail West Palm Beach, open 7 days a week 10-4, closed all observed holidays. If you have a question on growing cocoa, call the Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension Service Master Gardener volunteer hotline at 233-1750, or email your plant question to
mgardenfwd@pbcgov.org