Erythroxylaceae

The Erythroxylaceae is a family of plants, primarily consisting of shrubs and small trees, with most species originating from the Americas. These plants are characterized by their simple, untoothed leaves that often have stipules growing between the petiole and stem. The family is known for its small flowers, typically found in clusters in the leaf axils, and its fleshy, drupe-like fruits.12

The most well-known genus within this family is Erythroxylum, which includes species like Erythroxylum coca and Erythroxylum novogranatense. The dried leaves of these species are historically chewed by Indigenous peoples in western South America and are the source of the drug cocaine. While a significant illicit crop in some regions, a variety of coca is legally cultivated and used as a flavoring for Coca-Cola.13