Psychotria ligustrifolia
 
Common Names Bahama Wild Coffee, Bahama Wild-coffee
 
Zones 10B–11
 
A compact, evergreen shrub native to South Florida, the Bahamas, and Puerto Rico, Psychotria ligustrifolia thrives in tropical hammocks and pine rocklands. Often confused with Psychotria nervosa, this species is smaller and more tolerant of dry, rocky soils. Its glossy foliage, white flowers, and bright red drupes make it a favorite for wildlife gardens and low-maintenance native beds.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Rounded, densely branched shrub
Height: Typically 3–4 ft (0.9–1.2 m); may reach 5 ft in ideal conditions
Leaves: Opposite, simple, glossy green; elliptic to oblong; ~2–3 in long
Bark: Smooth, gray-brown; often obscured by dense foliage
Flowers: Small, white; tubular; bloom year-round with peak in spring/summer
Fruit: Bright red drupes; attractive to birds; ripen in clusters
Ecology: Nectar source for bees, flies, and wasps; fruits consumed by birds and small mammals; supports pollinator diversity in hammock-edge habitats
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Part shade to filtered sun
Watering: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but tolerates dry spells
Soil: Sandy or limestone-based; well-drained; neutral to alkaline pH
Temperature: Sensitive below 35°F (1.6°C); protect from frost
Humidity: High tolerance; thrives in subtropical humidity
Propagation: Seed or softwood cuttings; germination may be slow
Tolerance: Some salt wind tolerance; not flood-tolerant
 
Landscape Use Ideal for understory planting in native gardens, wildlife corridors, and restoration sites. Use as a low hedge, specimen shrub, or filler in hammock-edge designs. Pairs well with Eugenia axillaris, Zamia integrifolia, and Tillandsia fasciculata.