Water
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Reduce watering during winter months when growth slows.
Also known as 0 · Bolivian Coca · Coca-Bush
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Erythroxylum coca is a shrub native to northwestern South America, known for its stimulant properties and historical use.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light is ideal.
70% intensity
Protect from intense afternoon sun.
Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
60% intensity
Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Requires well-draining soil, such as a mix of potting soil, perlite, and sand. Slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal.
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-25 °C.
70% intensity
Avoid frost and sudden temperature drops.
Outdoor, Greenhouse
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
40% intensity
Dilute to half strength and fertilize every 2-4 weeks.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Reduce watering during winter months when growth slows.
Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or damaged branches. Light pruning can be done anytime, with heavier pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Root cuttings in moist, well-draining soil or water. Seeds can also be used but germination can be slow and erratic.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a pot one size larger with fresh, well-draining potting mix. Repot in spring before the active growing season begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Coca (Erythroxylum coca)
Where Coca (Erythroxylum coca) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Erythroxylaceae |
| Genus | Erythroxylum |
| Species | Erythroxylum coca |
Similar in genus Erythroxylum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data