🌿 Erythroxylum novogranatense (Colombian Coca)
Rare Ethnobotanical Shrub | Tropical Evergreen | Collector’s Plant
A unique and historically significant shrub, Erythroxylum novogranatense, commonly known as Colombian coca is a tropical evergreen native to South America. Growing 1–3 meters tall, this compact shrub is prized for its glossy green leaves and its cultural importance throughout the Andes and Southeast Asia.
This species has been traditionally cultivated in Colombia and later introduced to parts of Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia, where it was once grown as a plantation crop. Unlike E. coca, this species did not become a commercial source of cocaine, though it contains similar natural alkaloids in lesser concentrations.
🌱 Plant Details:
Botanical Name:Â Erythroxylum novogranatense
Common Name:Â Colombian Coca
Type: Tropical evergreen shrub
Mature Height: 1–3 meters
Growth Habit: Upright, bushy
Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Watering: Moderate; prefers well-drained soil
Hardiness: Best grown in frost-free climates or under glass in cooler regions
Ideal for: Ethnobotanical collections, conservatories, tropical gardens, educational use
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🌸 Ethnobotanical & Traditional Use:
Traditionally used by indigenous cultures as a mild stimulant to ease fatigue and hunger
Known for its high content of methyl salicylate (wintergreen aroma), making it historically valued in the flavoring of early soft drinks
Leaves have also been used in herbal infusions and traditional medicine in Andean regions
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Add a rare and meaningful species to your tropical or ethnobotanical garden. Perfect for plant collectors, researchers, and conservation-minded growers.
