Cola tree
The cola tree (Cola acuminata) is native to West Africa but is now also cultivated in tropical regions elsewhere in the world. The tree's seeds, known as cola nuts, contain caffeine and theobromine. In many African countries, cola nuts are used as a stimulant and are chewed to increase energy, improve concentration, and combat fatigue.
The cola tree is closely related to the cacao tree (Theobroma cacao), which produces the cocoa beans used to make chocolate. Both species belong to the mallow family (Malvaceae).
When Coca-Cola was developed in the late nineteenth century, extracts from both cola nuts and coca leaves were included in the drink. Today, Coca-Cola is no longer made from cola nuts, but its characteristic flavour is recreated using a blend of natural and artificial flavourings.
A long-standing story claims that the designer of the iconic Coca-Cola bottle confused the word cola with cacao and therefore took inspiration from the shape of a cacao pod. As a result, the bottle's distinctive curves resemble a cacao pod more closely than a cola nut.
Facts:
Greenhouse location: The Tropical House
Danish name: Kolatræ
Scientific name: Cola acuminata
Family: Mallow family / Malvaceae
Natural habitat: Tropical rainforests of West Africa