Yoco
Paullinia yocofam. Sapindaceae
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Pl. 468E — Paullinia yoco
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IOverview
Overview
Yoco, Paullinia yoco, is a member of the Sapindaceae family and can be found in the tropical forests of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. Known for its edible properties, the inner bark and sap are commonly used. This tree thrives in light to partial sun with moist conditions and prefers well-draining soil types ranging from sandy to clay. Growing up to 15 meters tall, Yoco is notable for its adaptability within hardiness zones 10-12. Its distinctive feature includes the edible parts of the plant, making it a valuable resource in its native range.
Quick answers
What is Yoco?
Yoco, Paullinia yoco, is a member of the Sapindaceae family and can be found in the tropical forests of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. Known for its edible properties, the inner bark and sap are commonly used.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Yoco thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 10-12, making it suitable for warmer climates. The plant grows up to 15 meters tall and can be propagated from stem cuttings or inner bark. Sap from the yoco tree is also edible.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
15.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Yoco for the first time
7steps
Start with a simple, light-loving sapling for your first Yoco plant.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Yoco sapling, well-draining soil, and a container or garden bed.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather is warm and stable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use light, medium, or heavy soil depending on your preference. Ensure good drainage.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant a young sapling into well-prepared soil, ensuring the roots are not damaged.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in partial shade for acclimatization.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun once established. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Prune lightly to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune stems and remove dead leaves for maintenance. Harvest inner bark and sap as needed, but avoid over-harvesting.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Inner barkSapStem
Edible uses: Coffee, Drink
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 3 native
Americas3 regions
native (3)ColombiaEcuadorPeru
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Sapindaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Sapindaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 468ee7c5-726a-4019-beb1-5cd495b62f98
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