Coca plants, especially Erythroxylum coca and Erythroxylum novogranatense, have been cultivated for centuries across South America. Today, collectors and researchers around the world look for coca seeds to study their unique taxonomy, ecology, and propagation. At DBotany, we provide premium coca seeds and coca seedlings with worldwide delivery.
Taxonomy of Coca Plants
Among the genus Erythroxylum, four main taxa are known for their distinct characteristics:
- E. coca var. coca (Bolivian or Huanuco coca) – adapted to humid tropical forests in the eastern Andes.
- E. coca var. ipadu (Amazonian coca) – cultivated in the Amazon basin, propagated by cuttings.
- E. novogranatense var. novogranatense (Colombian coca) – adaptable, grows well in dry regions of South America. Buy seeds here.
- E. novogranatense var. truxillense (Trujillo coca) – cultivated in arid regions of Peru.
The evolutionary lineage suggests E. coca var. coca is the ancestor, while the novogranatense varieties developed later.
Cocaine Content
Scientific studies report varying alkaloid content:
- E. coca var. coca: 0.23–0.96% (average 0.63%)
- E. coca var. ipadu: 0.11–0.41% (average 0.25%)
- E. novogranatense var. novogranatense: 0.55–0.93% (average 0.77%)
- E. novogranatense var. truxillense: 0.42–1.02% (average 0.72%)
Ecology and Growing Conditions
E. novogranatense is highly adaptable:
- Thrives in humid and dry climates
- Cultivated from sea level up to 1000 m (best results at 400–600 m)
- Optimal temperature: ~27 °C (80.6 °F)
- Best soil pH: 4.7 – 6.0
At DBotany, we provide both seeds and live seedlings so growers can explore different propagation methods in their own environments.
Propagation and Planting
- E. coca and E. novogranatense must be grown from seed.
- Seeds lose viability quickly—fresh seeds are critical for success.
- Germination rates fall drastically after 3–4 weeks of storage.
- Traditionally, farmers test seed viability by discarding seeds that float in water.
To secure high germination success, order fresh coca seeds directly from trusted sources like DBotany.
Identification Guide
- E. coca: larger elliptical leaves, broader above the middle.
- E. novogranatense: smaller, narrower, with parallel lines along the central vein (except var. truxillense).
These differences are essential for accurate identification in botanical studies.
Harvesting Coca
- First harvest: 1–3 years after transplanting
- In humid climates: every 50–60 days
- In drier climates: every 3–4 months
- Proper method: pinch leaves gently, do not rip
With good care, a coca plant becomes a long-lasting source of botanical material.
Why Buy Coca Seeds from DBotany?
- 🌱 Fresh, viable Erythroxylum coca seeds and novogranatense seeds
- 🌱 Live seedlings available for faster cultivation
- 🚚 Free worldwide shipping
- 🔒 Secure payment methods (crypto, PayPal, etc.)
- 📩 Direct orders via our shop
Explore more on our homepage and start your botanical journey today.
