Contents
Description
Casearia Nitida, commonly known as the shiny-leaf wild coffee, is a small evergreen tree that is native to Central and South America. It can grow up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide. The plant is characterized by its shiny, dark green leaves that are elliptical in shape and grow up to 6 inches long. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, and the fruit is a brown, round capsule that contains small seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Casearia |
Appearance
The shiny-leaf wild coffee plant has a dense, bushy growth habit and can be pruned to maintain its shape. Its elliptical leaves have a glossy surface and are arranged alternately on the stem. The bark is smooth and grayish in color, with fissures that become more pronounced as the plant ages. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer and are followed by the fruit capsules that ripen in the fall. The seeds are small and brown, with a hard coat that needs to be scarified before planting.
Care Guide
Casearia Nitida prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It should be watered regularly, but not excessively, to avoid waterlogging the roots. The plant is not very tolerant of drought, so it should be watered during dry periods. Fertilization is recommended during the growing season, with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer. The plant requires full to partial sunlight and can be grown in hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The shiny-leaf wild coffee plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by scale insects and spider mites, which can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot and leaf spot if overwatered or exposed to high humidity. Pruning infected branches and improving air circulation can help prevent the spread of these diseases.
Habitat
Casearia Nitida is native to Central and South America, where it grows in tropical and subtropical regions. It is commonly found in lowland forests, along riverbanks, and in disturbed areas. The plant is also cultivated as an ornamental and shade tree in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Casearia Nitida be grown indoors?
A: While the plant can be grown indoors, it requires bright, indirect sunlight and high humidity. It is best suited for outdoor cultivation in tropical and subtropical climates.
Q: How often should I fertilize the plant?
A: The plant should be fertilized every 6-8 weeks during the growing season, using a slow-release, balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I propagate Casearia Nitida?
A: The plant can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be scarified before planting, and cuttings should be taken from the softwood or semi-hardwood growth in late spring or early summer.
Q: What is the plant’s growth rate?
A: The plant has a moderate growth rate, and can grow up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide over several years.
Related Plants
- Casearia aculeata
- Casearia sylvestris
- Casearia lasiophylla
- Casearia decandra
References
- “Casearia Nitida.” Floridata. Accessed 18 May 2021. https://floridata.com/plant/1381
- “Shiny-Leaf Wild Coffee.” UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions. Accessed 18 May 2021. https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/trees-and-shrubs/trees/shiny-leaf-wild-coffee.html
- “Casearia Nitida.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 18 May 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c376
