Hortiforum

General Info – Cupuassu, Cupuacu

Native to the tropical rainforests of the Amazon, the Cupuassu is an ultra-tropical relative of the Cacao, highly sought after for its flavourful pulp, protected within the hard brown shell.
Prized throughout their native range for their delicious pulp, the Cupuassu is a complex tropical flavour explosion that is a unique experience for those seeking new flavour combinations. Unlike their relative the Cacao, the seeds are not the main product of fruits, but can be made into a Cupuassu butter. The pulp is the prized product of the Cupuassu, with its flavour profile drawing comparisons to a variety of fruits, with the acidity of Lemon, Pineapple & Passionfruit, the creaminess of Coconut and Chocolate, and the flavourful, aromatic taste of Pear, Soursop and Banana. While the pulp is rarely consumed fresh due to its strong acidity, it is is commonly sweetened in juices, smoothies, or desserts such as ice creams.
Cupuassu are an ultra-tropical plant, true to their native Amazonian environment and require a climate with year-round high temperatures and humidity, there is little tolerance for cooler climates. As such Cupuassu are likely only naturally viable for Far North Queensland and parts of the tropical Northern Territory and Western Australia when provided with supplemental watering as plants have minimal drought tolerance. Plants thrive in regions with high, year-round rainfall exceeding 2000mm, slightly acidic and fertile soils, and perfect drainage. Trees grow best under filtered light, naturally flourishing under a protective rainforest canopy. For gardeners seeking a similarly interesting tree and fruit in tropical Savanna climates, they may wish to try the Boab, a relative within the Malvaceae family.
Cupuassu trees are a highly ornamental, understory tree with long, drooping leaves similar to the related Cacao. Trees commonly reach heights of up to 10m natively and in cultivation, but can reach up to 20m in rare cases. With its pyramidal crown and partially cauliflorous (fruiting on main branches and stem) flowering and fruiting habit, the Cupuassu has an interesting appearance.
An exotic flavor from the heart of the Amazon, the Cupuassu offers a distinctive option for those in tropical climates and is a special treat rarely found outside of South America.

Plant Profile/Properties