Description
Origin
The Pachira aquatica is a tropical plant whose origin is in Central and South America. The plant grows in swamps and humid regions of the rainforest. It is particularly found in the wet areas of Panama, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua.
Characteristics
The Pachira aquatica is an evergreen tree that can reach up to 18 meters in height in the wild. The plant’s leaves are pinnate and shiny, and the flowers are remarkably large and cream-colored, with long purple stamens. A characteristic detail of the Pachira aquatica are the fruits, which resemble cacao fruits and burst open to reveal a row of edible white nuts.
Care
The Pachira aquatica thrives well in a bright environment but does not require direct sunlight. The plant requires regular watering, but not too much as it can lead to root rot. In terms of temperature, the Pachira aquatica prefers a warm environment, i.e., above 12 degrees Celsius. It is recommended to fertilize periodically to provide the plant with sufficient nutrients.
