Cacao trees only grow in tropical areas, i.e. around the equator - and thus especially in Ecuador. They need a hot, humid climate, sufficient rainfall and especially shade, which is why they are usually cultivated in mixed crops with other, taller plants, such as coconut palms, banana trees and avocado and mango trees.

The plants bear several times a year, with the main harvest period between November and March, and the first harvest is possible after about 5 years. One cocoa fruit usually contains 30-50 cocoa seeds (also called cocoa beans).