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Description
Psychotria Ligustrifolia, also known as Boxleaf Wild Coffee or Bahama Wild Coffee, is a shrub native to the Bahamas, Cuba, and the Cayman Islands. It belongs to the Rubiaceae family and is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and small, fragrant white flowers. The plant grows up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide, with a dense, bushy habit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Psychotria |
Appearance
The Boxleaf Wild Coffee has small, glossy green leaves that are arranged opposite each other on the stems. The leaves are elliptical in shape and range from 1 to 3 inches long. The plant produces small, white, tubular flowers that are about 1/2 inch long and bloom in the spring and summer. The flowers are followed by small, red berries that are edible but not commonly consumed.
Care Guide
Water: Psychotria Ligustrifolia prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry periods, but avoid overwatering.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring and summer with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.Soil: The plant prefers slightly acidic, well-drained soil. Amend the soil with organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.Sunlight: The Boxleaf Wild Coffee prefers partial shade to full shade. Avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day.Hardiness Zones: Psychotria Ligustrifolia is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Boxleaf Wild Coffee is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. To prevent infestations, keep the plant healthy and free from stress.
Habitat
Psychotria Ligustrifolia is native to the Bahamas, Cuba, and the Cayman Islands. It grows in a variety of habitats, including coastal forests, pine rocklands, and limestone outcrops.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Psychotria Ligustrifolia toxic to pets?
A: The plant is not known to be toxic to pets, but ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.Q: Can I grow Psychotria Ligustrifolia indoors?
A: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade and may not thrive indoors unless provided with adequate light.Q: Can I prune Psychotria Ligustrifolia?
A: Yes, you can prune the plant to maintain its shape and size. Pruning is best done after flowering.Q: Can I propagate Psychotria Ligustrifolia from cuttings?
A: Yes, you can propagate the plant from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Related Plants
– Psychotria Capensis- Psychotria Carthaginensis- Psychotria Elata- Psychotria Viridis
References
– “Psychotria Ligustrifolia.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp542- “Psychotria Ligustrifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=292799&isprofile=0&letter=p- “Psychotria Ligustrifolia.” PlantFiles. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/57649/
