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Description
Crossopetalum Rhacoma, commonly known as the Jamaica Wild Coffee or Wild Coffee, is a small evergreen shrub that is native to the Caribbean and Central America. It belongs to the family of Rubiaceae, which is composed of more than 13,000 species of trees, shrubs, and herbs. Crossopetalum Rhacoma is widely cultivated for its ornamental value and as a coffee substitute. It can grow up to 5 feet in height and 3 feet in width, and it produces small pale yellow flowers and red berries.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Crossopetalum |
Appearance
Crossopetalum Rhacoma has small, glossy, dark green leaves that are about 1 inch long and 0.5 inches wide. The leaves are arranged opposite each other on the stem, and they have a smooth texture. The shrub produces small pale yellow flowers that are about 0.25 inches in diameter and have a sweet fragrance. The flowers give way to clusters of red berries that are about 0.5 inches in diameter and have a slightly sweet and tangy taste.
Care Guide
Crossopetalum Rhacoma is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for it:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, but make sure the soil is well-drained. Do not let the soil dry out completely, but also avoid overwatering.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but avoid heavy clay soils.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce flowering.
- Hardiness Zones: Crossopetalum Rhacoma is hardy in USDA zones 10-11, but it can also be grown in colder zones as an indoor plant.
Common Pests & Diseases
Crossopetalum Rhacoma is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can occasionally be affected by the following:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Whiteflies: These small, moth-like insects can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly drained soil can cause root rot, which can lead to wilting and yellowing of the leaves. Improve drainage and reduce watering to prevent this.
Habitat
Crossopetalum Rhacoma is native to the Caribbean and Central America, where it grows in dry and rocky habitats, such as limestone hills, forests, and coastal areas. It can also be found in disturbed areas, such as roadsides and abandoned fields. The plant has been introduced to other parts of the world, including Florida, where it is cultivated as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Crossopetalum Rhacoma be grown as a coffee substitute?
A: Yes, the red berries of the plant can be roasted and ground to make a coffee substitute that is similar to regular coffee in taste and aroma.
Q: How often should I fertilize Crossopetalum Rhacoma?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Crossopetalum Rhacoma be grown in colder zones?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in colder zones as an indoor plant.
Q: How tall can Crossopetalum Rhacoma grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 5 feet in height and 3 feet in width.
Related Plants
- Coffea arabica
- Coffea canephora
- Coffea liberica
- Coffea excelsa
References
- “Crossopetalum Rhacoma.” Floridata. Accessed 19 July 2021. <https://www.floridata.com/plant/244>.
- “Crossopetalum Rhacoma.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed 19 July 2021. <https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp604>.
- “Rubiaceae.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 19 July 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderList.aspx?taxonid=281729>.
