I'm Tony. Cacao is the tree people can't believe grows in Miami, and it does, with a little care. The question I get next is "which kind?" The two names people search most are Trinitario and Nacional. Here's the practical difference for a South Florida grower.
Trinitario vs Nacional: the short answer
- Trinitario is a hybrid of Criollo and Forastero cacao. It's known as a vigorous, adaptable type with good flavor. It's what we grow and sell in Miami.
- Nacional is a heritage Ecuadorian cacao, prized for floral "Arriba" chocolate. It's mostly a specialty and collector tree in the US, and we don't currently carry it.
For a home grower in South Florida, I steer people to Trinitario. It's the one I can grow and ship to you reliably.
Quick comparison
| Trinitario | Nacional | |
|---|---|---|
| Background | Criollo × Forastero hybrid, from Trinidad | Heritage variety from Ecuador |
| Known for | Vigor and balanced flavor | Floral, fruity "Arriba" flavor |
| Availability in Florida | Available: our Trinitario Cacao Tree, 3 gal | Hard to find |
Growing cacao in South Florida: what actually matters
- Cold is the enemy. Cacao is truly tropical. Protect it or bring it in when nights drop toward the 40s, and grow it in a pot if you're north of Miami-Dade.
- Shade when young. Young cacao likes filtered light, like under a taller tree or shade cloth, and burns in full Miami sun.
- Wind and salt. Plant it somewhere sheltered. Big leaves tear in wind.
- Steady moisture, good drainage. Keep it evenly moist and mulch well, but never let it sit in water.
- Feed lightly. Our alkaline soil can yellow the leaves. A micronutrient feed helps.
For the full how-to, see How to Grow Cacao in Florida (and Beyond).
Buying a cacao tree in Florida
Our Trinitario Cacao Tree (Chocolate Tree) is home-grown in Miami, 14"+ in a 3 gal pot, for $45.00. Shipped trees are repotted into 1 gallon containers for the box and weigh about 2–4 lb. We ship Monday through Thursday, nationwide (except California, Arizona and Hawaii), and hold shipments in extreme weather. Want a gift? The Chocolate & Spice Starter (cacao + sweet tamarind) is $99.00.
FAQ
Can cacao grow outdoors in Miami?
Yes, in a sheltered, partly shaded spot, with a plan for the occasional cold night.
Is Trinitario good chocolate?
Yes. It's one of the main cacao types in fine chocolate, and it's tougher than pure Criollo.
Does Giardino Fresco sell Nacional cacao?
Not right now. We grow Trinitario.
Can I grow cacao in a pot?
Yes. It's the best way outside South Florida. Use a large, well-drained pot and move it inside when it gets cold.
Questions? Text me, Tony, at 786-774-2125.
Sources: University of Florida IFAS Extension; general cacao references. Results vary with site and care.
