Little Psyco/Wild Coffee
Psychotria nervosa (Wild Coffee)
Common Names: Wild Coffee, Seminole Balsamo, Shiny-leaved Wild Coffee.
Best Growing Environment: Psychotria nervosa, or Wild Coffee, is native to the southeastern United States, specifically Florida, and prefers a habitat that's reminiscent of the understory of tropical hardwood forests. This means it likes rich, organic soils, although it can be quite adaptable to various soil types, as long as they are well-draining.
Average Height and Diameter: Wild Coffee typically grows to a height of 3-6 feet, but under optimal conditions, it can reach up to 10 feet. In terms of diameter or spread, it usually spans around 3-5 feet.
Growth Rate: Psychotria nervosa possesses a moderate to fast growth rate when given ideal growing conditions.
Sun Requirements: This plant prefers partial to full shade, making it perfect for areas beneath larger trees or on the north side of buildings. It can tolerate some sun but tends to remain more compact and may require additional watering in those conditions.
Cold Hardiness: Wild Coffee is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. It may suffer from frost damage in the cooler parts of its range but generally recovers in the spring.
Water Requirements: Psychotria nervosa likes consistent moisture and should be watered regularly. However, it's crucial to avoid overwatering, and the soil should be allowed to dry out between watering sessions. While it appreciates humidity, it's also somewhat drought-tolerant once established.
Fertilizing Guide: Wild Coffee doesn't require much fertilization. If you decide to fertilize, do so during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Always water the plant after fertilizing to avoid burning the roots.
Planting Guide: For best results, plant Wild Coffee in an area with good drainage. Dig a hole that's about twice the width and the same depth as the root ball. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Fill the hole with soil, press down gently, and water thoroughly. When planting multiple shrubs, maintain a spacing of about 3-5 feet.
USDA Zone: Psychotria nervosa is best suited for USDA zones 9-11.
Wild Coffee is an attractive, native Florida shrub known for its glossy green leaves and vibrant red berries, which are especially appealing to various bird species. While the name suggests a relationship to the coffee plant (Coffea arabica), the two are not closely related, and the berries of Wild Coffee are not used to make coffee. This plant is an excellent choice for native and wildlife gardens in the southeastern U.S., offering both beauty and benefits to local fauna.