When the coca leaves reach the markets they are usually classed as either Bolivian or Peruvian in origin. The Bolivian leaf is heavier and thicker than the Peruvian leaf, which is more delicate and of a lighter color. In general the manufacturers of cocain use chiefly the Bolivian leaf, since it contains the highest percentage of the alkaloid and the less quantity of the other alkaloids which are present in the leaf.

The natives prefer for their use the Peruvian coca, although it contains less cocain. The Peruvian coca is richer in the other alkaloids aside from cocain than the Bolivian.