Bixaceae

Bixa was named by Linnaeus based on the local name biche for this South American plant. In the Flora of Australia treatment Cochlospermum is placed in this family, however recent treatments have placed it in the family Cochlospermaceae. Bixa can be found in some local gardens, a shrub or small tree Bixa orellana is recognised by the capsule which is covered in soft, prickly red to rusty-red hairs. A dye is extracted from the seeds which are covered with a red sarcotesta.