Coca Seedlings (Erythroxylum novogranatense)

Coca Seedlings (Erythroxylum novogranatense)
Colombian Coca | Tropical Evergreen Shrub | Ethnobotanical Interest

Description:
Erythroxylum novogranatense, commonly known as Colombian coca, is a small, evergreen shrub that typically grows between 1 to 3 meters tall. It features minute lenticels on its branches and glossy green leaves similar to those of Erythroxylum coca. While this species contains the same alkaloids found in cocaine, it has historically not been a commercial source of the drug.

Cultivation & Habitat:
Native to the lower tropical regions of South America and parts of Asia including Malaysia, Indonesia, India, and Sri Lanka this shrub was once cultivated as a plantation crop in the Malesian region but has since declined in commercial importance. It thrives in warm, tropical climates and requires well-drained soil with moderate watering.

Traditional Uses:

Stimulant: Indigenous peoples have long used the leaves as a mild stimulant to reduce hunger and fatigue, particularly during strenuous activities.

Flavoring: The leaves contain a high level of methyl salicylate (wintergreen oil), making them valuable in the flavoring of beverages; notably, the Peruvian 'Trujillo coca' variety was historically used in Coca-Cola’s formulation.

Medicinal: Similar to Erythroxylum coca, the leaves have narcotic, cerebral stimulant, and local anesthetic properties. Traditional uses include chewing with lime or plant ashes to boost energy and endurance, and infusions are made to alleviate altitude sickness (locally known as ‘soroche’).

Growing Tips:

Provide a warm, frost-free environment.
Partial shade to full sun preferred.
Moderate watering and well-drained soil conditions are ideal.
Suitable for conservatories, tropical gardens, and ethnobotanical collections.