Coca
erythroxylum coca
Also known as: ["Coca leaf","Erythroxylon coca"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen shrub native to South America, known for its leaves which contain psychoactive alkaloids.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Erythroxylaceae |
| Genus: | Erythroxylum |
| Botanical Name: | Erythroxylum coca |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor in sheltered, partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to control size and shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near hot windows.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Use a mix of cactus soil and peat moss; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates a range but thrives in warm, stable conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early spring; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out root ball; trim any circling roots.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or bud drop in extreme cold; leaf scorch or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and increases susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow or stop.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the stimulant effects of cocaine found in Erythroxylum coca. Even small amounts can cause severe neurological and cardiovascular distress, potentially leading to fatal outcomes.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Erythroxylum coca by dogs can cause severe central nervous system stimulation, leading to hyperactivity, tremors, and potential cardiac or respiratory failure due to the presence of cocaine alkaloids.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicErythroxylum coca contains psychoactive alkaloids, primarily cocaine, which act as a central nervous system stimulant. Chronic or excessive ingestion can lead to severe physiological and psychological dependence, cardiovascular complications, and neurological damage.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Erythroxylum coca legal to cultivate?
A: The cultivation of Erythroxylum coca is heavily regulated or prohibited in many countries due to its psychoactive properties.
Q: What are the traditional uses of Coca?
A: Traditionally, Coca leaves have been used for their stimulant properties and in folk medicine for altitude sickness and fatigue.
Q: Is Coca plant toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Coca is highly toxic to both dogs and cats due to its alkaloid content.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Erythroxylaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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