Psychotria nervosa (Wild Coffee)

Psychotria nervosa (Wild Coffee) is an upright, medium-sized evergreen shrub with attractive, shiny dark green leaves and showy scarlet berries. The foliage of oppositely arranged, obovate leaves, 6 in. long (15 cm), is puckered with conspicuous veins on the upper surfaces, creating a wavy, textured look. Blooming in spring and summer, a profusion of small, tubular, white to greenish-white flowers are born in sessile clusters that may be axillary or terminal. They attract many species of butterflies and are followed by small, red, oval berries that are edible but are rather bland. They resemble coffee beans, hence the common name, and are highly appealing to birds and small wildlife. Low maintenance, relatively salt tolerant, and somewhat drought tolerant, Wild Coffee is well-suited for use as a specimen or accent plant, foundation plant, or as a loose hedge. Native to Florida as well as the West Indies and Central and South America, Wild Coffee is one of the most widely cultivated of Florida’s native plants.

• Grows up to 2-10 ft. tall (60-300 cm) and 3-5 ft. wide (90-150 cm). Readily self-seeds
• Easily grown in part shade to full shade in moderately dry to moist, well-drained soils. Some tolerance to drought, and salty wind but not direct salt spray. This versatile plant will grow in full sun, but the plant will be more compact and its leaves will show yellowing.
• Virtually disease and pest free
• Takes to clipping nicely.
• Propagated by seed or cuttings. Seeds should be planted after the last frost in cold areas.
• Native to Florida as well as the West Indies and Central and South America.