Where do you even buy such a tree?

I have one, Theobroma cacao. It is about 6 feet tall and started blooming about a year ago! I've heard they aren't self-fertile so I don't expect any pods. I tried putting it outside one summer but the wind ripped the leaves. Thus it is inside, but I can't leave it next to an outside wall during the winter - it gets too cold. It is definitely a tropical plant.

Goodness, you are zone 10b - I thought that is where they grew. I am zone 9b and was hoping to grow this in a pot. I didn't know they needed a pollinator. I am going to have to study this more.

It would seem that if the cacao tree was placed next to a fence or in a protected area, that this would stop the leaves from being blown away. I read several articles on this tree last evening, but I didn't see the pollinator issue.

You can buy them on Ebay or a better place would be Pine Island Nursery. The only issue with buying their trees is the shipping cost. They are a very reputable nursery, but you will have to consider the shipping. That is why I was looking on Ebay.

Logee's has a good video on growing this tree in pots and keeping it in greenhouses for the north.

Thanks for the responses.

Carol

cacao is tropical plant, 9b is subtropical. it will die if left outside in winter.

Thanks, I'll try to read more.

Carol

To clarify, I can't leave it INSIDE the house next to the outside wall if it gets down to 40 outside. Old house, not much insulation in the walls. During the summer I'm sure I could have left it outside in a more sheltered place but it is happy inside in a fairly low light corner. They are understory trees.

Thanks, I had thought this tree could go down to 32 degrees, but I see now that they may not. Thanks for all your info. This Definitely lets me know that I shouldn't buy the cacoa tree.

Despite this, it still may very well be a great houseplant. Just bring it outside beside the house away from any breeze in the spring, summer, and early fall. Keep it pruned to about 7 ft, it'll be fine. Not sure about the pollination issue though... I thought they were self fertile. Logee's sells them as well. Their site has care information. Hope this helps :-)

Carol, look up Theobroma cacao pollination and you will find plenty of information on its very particular requirement.