Erythroxylaceae

Description

Erythroxylaceae is a family of plants that contains around 250 species of trees and shrubs. The most well-known plant in this family is the coca plant (Erythroxylum coca), which is used in the production of cocaine. However, not all plants in this family contain cocaine alkaloids.The leaves of some Erythroxylaceae species have been used for their stimulant effects for centuries by indigenous peoples in South America. The plants are also used for medicinal purposes in traditional medicine.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Erythroxylaceae plants range in size from small shrubs to large trees. Leaves are typically simple, alternate, and evergreen. The flowers are small, white or yellow, and are produced in clusters. The fruit is a capsule that contains one or more seeds.Coca plants have oval-shaped leaves that are about 4-8cm long. The leaves are dark green and glossy. The plant grows to about 2-3 meters tall.

Care Guide

Water

Erythroxylaceae plants prefer moist soil but should not be overwatered. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.

Fertilization

Fertilize Erythroxylaceae plants during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Soil

Erythroxylaceae plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.

Sunlight

Most Erythroxylaceae plants prefer full sun to partial shade.

Hardiness Zones

Erythroxylaceae plants can be grown in hardiness zones 9-12.

Common Pests & Diseases

Erythroxylaceae plants can be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. They can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot.

Habitat

Erythroxylaceae plants are native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. They are found in rainforests, deciduous forests, and savannas.

Question and Answer

Q: Are all plants in the Erythroxylaceae family used for drug production?

A: No, not all plants in this family contain cocaine alkaloids. However, some species have been traditionally used for their stimulant effects.

Q: Can Erythroxylaceae plants be grown indoors?

A: Yes, some species can be grown indoors if they receive adequate light and humidity.

Q: Are Erythroxylaceae plants easy to care for?

A: They can be relatively easy to care for as long as they are provided with the right growing conditions.

Q: Are Erythroxylaceae plants endangered?

A: Some species are considered endangered due to habitat loss and overutilization.

Related Plants

• Erythroxylum novogranatense
• Erythroxylum cataractarum
• Erythroxylum vacciniifolium
• Erythroxylum macrophyllum

References

• Alonso, J. R. (2012). Erythroxylum coca: A treatise on brain-changing plants. North Atlantic Books.
• Plants of the World Online. (2021). Erythroxylaceae. Kew Science, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. https://powo.science.kew.org/family/Erythroxylaceae
• Smith, C. (2017). Medicinal Plants of the World: An Illustrated Scientific Guide to Important Medicinal Plants and Their Uses. Timber Press.