Theobroma: The Mystery Plant That Has Botanists Scratching Their Heads
If you’ve stumbled upon the name Theobroma simiarum in your plant research, you’re not alone in wondering what exactly this mysterious species is all about. While the genus Theobroma is famous for giving us chocolate (thank you, Theobroma cacao!), this particular species name has botanists doing a double-take.
What We Know (And Don’t Know) About Theobroma simiarum
Here’s the thing about Theobroma simiarum – it’s about as elusive as a unicorn in your backyard. This species name doesn’t appear in major botanical databases, plant encyclopedias, or horticultural references. While the genus Theobroma is well-documented with species like cacao, grandiflorum, and bicolor, simiarum seems to be playing hide and seek with the scientific community.
What we do know is that if this plant exists, it would belong to the Theobroma family, which typically includes tropical trees and shrubs native to Central and South America. However, without verified information about its geographic distribution, we can’t pinpoint where this mystery plant might call home.
Should You Try to Grow It?
Given the uncertainty surrounding Theobroma simiarum, we’d recommend pumping the brakes on adding this to your garden wishlist. Here’s why:
- No reliable growing information is available
- Unknown hardiness zones and climate requirements
- Unclear native status and ecological impact
- Difficulty sourcing authentic plant material
Better Alternatives from the Theobroma Family
Instead of chasing botanical ghosts, why not consider these well-documented Theobroma species that you can actually find and grow successfully:
- Theobroma cacao: The chocolate tree itself! Perfect for tropical gardens and greenhouses
- Theobroma grandiflorum: Known as cupuaçu, produces delicious fruits
- Theobroma bicolor: The patashte tree, another cacao relative
The Bottom Line
While the mystery of Theobroma simiarum remains unsolved, there’s no shortage of fascinating and well-documented plants to explore in your garden. If you’re drawn to the Theobroma genus, stick with the species that have clear growing guidelines and verified benefits.
Sometimes in gardening, as in life, it’s better to go with what you know works rather than chase after botanical mysteries. Your garden (and your sanity) will thank you for it!
