Agelanthus keilii (Engl. & K.Krause) Polhill & Wiens: Plant Description
Agelanthus keilii is a parasitic plant species in the Loranthaceae family, commonly known as African mistletoe. It is native to the African continent and found in Angola, Cameroon, Gabon, Ghana, Nigeria, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It grows on the branches of trees and shrubs, typically in rainforests.
Appearance
Agelanthus keilii has tiny leaves that are typically reddish in color. It has a woody stem that can grow up to 60 centimeters in length, with its size and shape dependent on the host tree or shrub it parasitizes. The plant produces small, tubular flowers that are white or yellow in color and bloom from November to March.
Common Names
Agelanthus keilii is commonly known in local languages as "Akika" in Cameroon, "Oyong" in Nigeria, and "Kwahu" in Ghana.
Uses
Agelanthus keilii is used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including malaria, fever, headache, and hypertension. The plant is used as a remedy for infertility in women and as a diuretic to treat kidney problems. It is also used in some African cultures as an aphrodisiac.
Additionally, the plant has cultural significance in some communities. It is used as a ritual plant in some traditional African religions and is regarded as a symbol of love and fertility.
Light Conditions
The plant Agelanthus keilii requires a considerable amount of sunlight exposure to grow properly. As a result, it is best suited for environments that receive full or partial sunlight throughout the day. As a rule of thumb, six hours of direct sunlight a day is suitable for optimal growth and development. If grown indoors, it is recommended to place the plant near a south-facing window that receives maximum sunlight exposure.
Temperature Conditions
The Agelanthus keilii plant thrives in warm conditions, with an optimal temperature range of 20-30°C (68-86°F). However, the plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 15°C (59°F) and as high as 35°C (95°F) for short periods. To regulate the temperature of the plant, it is advisable to avoid placing it in areas with sharp temperature fluctuations or cold drafts.
Soil Requirements
The Agelanthus keilii plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients and has good aeration. The soil pH should be between 5.5 to 6.5. For optimal growth, it is recommended to use a mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite in equal parts. Alternatively, a commercial potting mix with added organic matter can also be used. Overwatering can harm the plant, so the soil must be allowed to dry out slightly between watering sessions.
Cultivation Methods for Agelanthus keilii
Agelanthus keilii is a parasitic plant that grows naturally on the bark of different species of trees such as Acacia and Combretum. The plant does not have a root system, so it relies on establishing contact with the roots of the host tree to obtain water and nutrients. Cultivating Agelanthus keilii is, therefore, dependent on finding a suitable host tree.
If you wish to grow Agelanthus keilii at home, you can do so by grafting a stem of the plant onto the bark of a suitable host tree. Grafting can be a delicate process, and it's best if done by someone with experience in grafting parasitic plants.
Watering Needs for Agelanthus keilii
Since Agelanthus keilii is a parasitic plant, it relies solely on the host tree for water. Therefore, it does not require any watering. However, it's essential to ensure that the host tree is well-watered and maintained to foster healthy growth for Agelanthus keilii.
Fertilization for Agelanthus keilii
Agelanthus keilii doesn't require any fertilization, as it obtains all the nutrients it needs from the host tree. However, it's crucial to ensure that the host tree has enough nutrients to support both its growth and that of the parasitic plant growing on it.
Pruning for Agelanthus keilii
Pruning of Agelanthus keilii is not necessary as the plant does not produce much foliage. However, it's crucial to ensure that the host tree is well-maintained and receives proper pruning to support the healthy growth of the parasitic plant growing on it.
Propagation Methods for Agelanthus keilii
Agelanthus keilii is a parasitic plant that commonly grows on the stems and branches of its host tree, Vangueria infausta. Propagation of this plant is mainly through seeds, stem cuttings, and grafting.
Seed Propagation
Propagating Agelanthus keilii from seeds can be challenging because the plant depends on its host for nutrients, water, and support. Nonetheless, it is still possible to grow the plant from seeds. Harvest mature seeds when the capsules turn yellow or brownish and the seeds become black, hard, and shiny. Use a fine sieve to clean the seeds and remove the flakes and debris. Prepare your planting medium and ensure that it is well-drained and moist. Sow the seeds on the surface of the medium and cover lightly with a layer of fine sand. Keep the medium moist but not waterlogged, and place the container in a well-lit area with a temperature range of about 25-30°C. Germination can occur within 3 to 6 weeks.
Stem Cuttings
Another way to propagate Agelanthus keilii is through stem cuttings. Take a cutting from a mature stem, preferably with a diameter of about 2 to 3mm. Make a clean cut below a node and remove all the leaves except for the top pair. Dip the bottom end of the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-drained, sterile potting mix. Water the plant and cover it with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. Ensure that the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. The stem cutting should produce roots within 2 to 3 months.
Grafting
Grafting is another effective way to propagate Agelanthus keilii. Obtain scions from mature plants and prepare rootstock seedlings from the same species or a related species. Cut both the scion and rootstock diagonally, and join them by making a cleft graft or whip graft. Seal the graft union with grafting tape or wax to prevent moisture loss. Place the grafted plants in a warm, humid environment and provide them with adequate light. Water the plants regularly and remove any shoots or growth from the rootstock below the graft union. Successful grafting can result in a healthy and mature plant within 1 to 2 years.
Disease and Pest Management for Agelanthus keilii
Agelanthus keilii, a hemiparasitic plant found in Africa, is susceptible to several diseases and pests. Here are some of the common ones that may affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
1. Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that causes the development of brown spots on the leaves. The infected leaves eventually dry up and fall off the plant. To manage this disease, it is essential to remove and destroy infected leaves from around the plant. Additionally, ensure that the plant is adequately spaced to promote good air circulation.
2. Root Rot: This disease often results from overwatering and poor drainage. It causes the plant to wilt and eventually die. Improving drainage for the plant and avoiding over-watering can help control this disease.
3. Leaf Rust: This is a fungal disease that causes the development of rusty brown spots on the surface of the leaves. The infection can reduce the photosynthetic ability of the leaves and potentially lead to the death of the plant. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves and ensure the plant is well-pruned for proper airflow.
Common Pests
1. Aphids: These pests are small, soft-bodied insects that attach themselves to the leaves and suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth. To manage them, use an insecticidal soap, neem oil and try to encourage natural predators such as ladybugs that prey on aphids.
2. Spider Mites: These pests are tiny and often hard to notice. They feed on the plants' sap and cause stippling on the leaves. Regularly spraying the plant with water can reduce their infestation. Additionally, using insecticidal soap or neem oil can help keep them in check.
3. Whiteflies: These tiny, white insects feed by sucking sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and weakening the plant. To manage this pest, introduce parasites or predators such as ladybugs or release sticky traps to control them.
Overall, Agelanthus keilii's disease and pest management require proper plant care, including regular pruning, sanitation, proper watering and spacing, and monitoring for any signs of disease or pest infestation.
