Also known as Bastard Canckerberry · Seminole Balsamo · Shiny-Leaved Wild Coffee
Psychotria nervosa, the Bastard Cankerberry, is a Florida native shrub or small tree. It features glossy leaves and clusters of white flowers followed by red berries.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate partial shade but may flower less. Avoid direct, intense sunlight.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow top inch to dry out between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-25°C. Protect from frost and cold drafts.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogged roots, especially during cooler months. Reduce watering in winter to accommodate slower growth.
Consistent moisture is key for healthy development.
Prune lightly to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. This can be done in spring or early summer. Pinching back the tips of new growth encourages bushier plant development and can promote flowering.
Propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Root cuttings in a moist, well-draining medium. Alternatively, seeds can be sown in spring, but germination can be slow and erratic.
Keep cuttings consistently moist.
Repot young plants annually or every two years in spring. Mature plants can be repotted less frequently. Use a well-draining potting mix and a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid root rot.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Bastard Cankerberry (Psychotria nervosa)
Where Bastard Cankerberry (Psychotria nervosa) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Psychotria |
| Species | Psychotria nervosa |
Similar in genus Psychotria
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
