Cacao/kəˈkaʊ/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Geographic Origin Cacao trees grow mainly in the tropical climates of the Americas and Africa. Cacao trees thrive best near the equator. Pro Tip 2/3Botanical Aspect Understanding 'cacao' includes its role in botany and the process from tree to chocolate. Biologists study how cacao trees pollinate and fruit. Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Significance Cacao has a rich heritage, especially in ancient Mesoamerican cultures. Cacao was once considered a gift from the gods by the Aztecs.