Cupuassu, Cupuacu

Theobroma grandiflorum

Physical Characteristics

Theobroma grandiflorum is an evergreen Tree growing to 10 m (32ft) by 10 m (32ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The flowers are pollinated by Insects, Wind. Suitable for: medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

S. America - Amazonian Brazil.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Oil Seed Edible Uses: Chocolate Drink Drink Oil The fruit contains a number of large seeds surrounded by a very aromatic, succulent pulp with a slightly acidic flavour[335 , 416 ]. This pulp can be eaten raw and is said to be delicious[317 , 335 ]. Creamy, with an exotic flavour[318 ]. Sweetish and agreeably scented[420 ]. It is also used to make fresh juice, ice cream, jam and tarts[317 , 318 ]. The brown fruit is 12 - 25cm long and 10 - 12cm in diameter, with the pulp occupying about a third of the space within[335 ]. Seed - used as a substitute for chocolate[420 ]. The seeds have a high amount of fat and give a good cocoa butter[317 ]. The seeds of species in this genus are generally a rich source of oil (around 50%), starch (around 15%) and protein (around 15%)[636 ]. They also contain a volatile oil and the stimulating alkaloids caffeine and theobromine[636 ].

Medicinal Uses

Antibacterial Cardiac Emollient Hypotensive Skin Stimulant Tonic The plant (part not specified, but it is almost certainly the fruit or the seed[K ]) is nutritive, stimulant and tonic[318 ]. The seeds are used in the treatment of abdominal pains[318 ]. The juiced fruit is drunk to facilitate difficult births[318 ]. Although no specific reports of medicinal use have been seen for this plant, the seed is a source of cacao powder and butter. These products have the following medicinal uses:- Cacao powder and butter, which are obtained from the seed, are nutritive[238 ]. The butter is also applied externally as an emollient[238 ]. Cacao powder is taken internally in the treatment of angina and high blood pressure[238 ]. Cacao butter is an excellent emollient, being applied to the skin to soothe and soften it[238 ]. It is used traditionally to treat chapped skin and burns, and is also rubbed into bruises[238 ]. Research has shown that it can help to counter the bacteria responsible for boils and septicaemia[254 ].

Known Hazards

None known