Description
Psychotria divergens (also called divergent wild coffee, among many other common names) is a shrub or small tree that grows up to 5 meters tall. It is native to tropical Africa and is found in lowland forests and secondary forests. It has elliptic to oblong leaves and white flowers.
Uses & Benefits
Psychotria divergens has been used as a traditional medicine for treating fever, diarrhea, and other ailments. It is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens and can be used to make a tea with a pleasant flavor.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Psychotria divergens is a small, white, four-petaled flower with a yellow center. The seed is a small, black, oval-shaped seed. The seedling is a small, green plant with two leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Psychotria divergens can be propagated by seed, cuttings, or division. Seeds should be sown in a well-draining, sandy soil mix and kept moist. Cuttings should be taken from new growth in spring or summer and placed in a moist, sandy soil mix. Division should be done in spring or summer and the divisions should be planted in a well-draining soil mix.
Where to Find Psychotria divergens
Psychotria divergens can be found in tropical regions of Central and South America, including Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil.