This plant is ethnobotanically important in its native Amazonian region, but tends to be virtually impossible to find elsewhere. It's hig...Read Morehly caffeinated foliage is enjoyable as an aromatic tisane, and is relatively expensive when it can be found in specialty shops.
Information pertaining to cultivation seems to be similarly scarce. However, live specimens demonstrate this plant can be successfully cultivated in a partially sunny location, well-draining soil with periodic moisture, in USDA Zone 10 or warmer, without any particular humidity requirements.
When they can be obtained, softwood cuttings can be rooted if inserted into a very moist medium and enclosed within a humidity bag in a warm environment and indirect lighting. Patience is required. When roots develop, cuttings can be transferred into a rich, well-drained medium (e.g. compost and perlite). Freshly rooted cuttings are susceptible to black spot fungal infections of foliage and stem, and will succumb quickly if not treated. Regular applications of the bacteria based anti-fungal "Actinovate" have proven very effective in halting the progression of fungal infection.
As cuttings develop roots and foliage, moisture should be reduced, as maturing cuttings thrive in an environment of bright indirect light, periodic watering, warm temperatures (e.g. 70-90F or 20-32C), and moderate humidity (e.g. 50%).
I find this very easy to grow and I have several rooted plants to offer those interested.
This plant is ethnobotanically important in its native Amazonian region, but tends to be virtually impossible to find elsewhere. It's hig...Read More