Contents
Description
Erythroxylum Novogranatense is a plant species belonging to the Erythroxylaceae family, commonly known as the Coca plant. It is native to South America, particularly in the Andes region of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. This plant has been used for centuries by the indigenous people of South America due to its medicinal and psychoactive properties. It is also a source of cocaine, which is extracted from its leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Erythroxylaceae |
| Genus | Erythroxylum |
Appearance
Erythroxylum Novogranatense is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 5 meters in height. Its leaves are small and oval-shaped, with a dark green color on top and a lighter shade on the underside. The flowers are small and white, and the fruit is a small red berry. The plant is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Care Guide
Water: Erythroxylum Novogranatense prefers moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: The plant can benefit from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Soil: Erythroxylum Novogranatense prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 5.5-6.5.
Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun exposure.
Hardiness Zones: Erythroxylum Novogranatense can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erythroxylum Novogranatense is susceptible to pests like aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. It can also be affected by diseases like leaf spot and powdery mildew. The best way to prevent these issues is to maintain good plant hygiene, avoid overwatering, and provide adequate air circulation.
Habitat
Erythroxylum Novogranatense is native to the Andes region of South America, where it grows in tropical and subtropical climates at altitudes of 500-2000 meters above sea level.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Erythroxylum Novogranatense legal to grow?
A: It depends on the laws of your country. In some countries, it is legal to grow the plant for ornamental purposes, while in others, it is strictly prohibited due to its association with cocaine production.
Q: Can Erythroxylum Novogranatense be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a well-lit area with good air circulation.
Q: How long does it take for Erythroxylum Novogranatense to mature?
A: The plant can take up to 3-4 years to reach maturity.
Q: Can Erythroxylum Novogranatense be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Erythroxylum Coca
- Erythroxylum Truxillense
- Erythroxylum Novae-Granatensis
References
- “Erythroxylum novogranatense.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed July 18, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b628.
- “Erythroxylum novogranatense.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed July 18, 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/erythroxylum-novogranatense.
- “Erythroxylum novogranatense.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Accessed July 18, 2021. http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=78043.
