Achiote

Description:

Achiote (Bixa orellana) is a shrub or small tree originating from the tropical region of the Americas. The plant bears pink flowers and bright red spiny fruits which contain red seeds. The fruits dry and harden to brown capsules.

Habitat:

cultivated

Notes:

The inedible fruit is harvested for its seeds, which contain annatto, also called bixin. It can be extracted by stirring the seeds in water. It is used to color food products, such as cheeses, fish, and salad oil The achiote has long been used by American Indians to make body paint, especially for the lips