Tropical Blooms + Year-Round Growth Why Chocolate Plants? Get exotic flowers that bloom year-round, even while fruit is present, on the incomparable Chocolate Plant. These blooms transform from delicate white or pinkish flowers into cocoa pods. Grouped together in clusters that emerge directly from the trunk of the plant, they play well against the bright green leaves. The foliage has a unique feature you've got to see to believe: leaves will actually pivot towards the sun. Like mini solar panels, they move 90 degrees either horizontally or vertically depending on the sun's position. Aside from its visual beauty, there are many reasons you'll want to include the Chocolate Plant in your garden or landscape design plans. To start, there are numerous health benefits derived from the plant's fruit. Why Trees.com is Better Though the Chocolate Plant does rely on an insect known as the chocolate midge to produce its fruit (or hand pollination in non-tropical areas), you'll have the benefit of vibrant color that thrives indoors or out. That's because we've planted, grown, and shipped your plant with care. Now, you get an exotic tree that's almost impossible to find at big-box stores or local garden centers. Order your Chocolate Plant today! Planting & Care 1. Planting: Your Chocolate Plant will be happiest in a full to partial sun location. If possible, try to put it in a spot that it will be protected from strong winds. From there, ensure you dig a hole large enough to accommodate your Cocoa Plant's root ball in well-draining soil, place your plant, backfill, and then water to settle the roots. You can also mulch the surrounding soil to lock in moisture. Note: This product grows best in well-draining soil. When you receive your plant, you may notice small, white beads or rocks in the soil - this medium is added to increase drainage and keep your plant happy and healthy! 2. Watering: Your Chocolate Plant will require at least one weekly watering. If you're not sure when to water, simply check your plant's surrounding soil about 3 inches down for dryness. 3. Fertilizing: For the first year, during active growth in spring and summer, apply a 1/2 lb. of a slow-release, complete fertilizer every two months. 4. Pollination: The Chocolate Plant is self-pollinating but does rely on an insect known as the chocolate midge to produce its fruit.
