Origin
Baccharoides calvoana subsp. usambarensis is a plant species found in the tropical regions of East Africa, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and Tanzania. The plant is commonly found in forests, hills, and mountains with altitudes ranging from 1500 to 3200 meters above sea level.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the Calvo's baccharis or simply, the Baccharoides. In East Africa, the plant is known as Mjafari or Mjafari mkubwa in Swahili.
Uses
Various parts of Baccharoides calvoana have been used for medicinal and other purposes. The plant is known to possess anti-inflammatory and antimalarial properties. In traditional medicine, it is used to treat fever, headache, and stomach ache. The plant is also used in the production of natural insecticides. Additionally, its fiber has been used to make ropes, baskets, and mats.
General Appearance
Baccharoides calvoana subsp. usambarensis is an erect, perennial shrub with a woody, much-branched stem. The plant grows up to two meters in height and has leaves that are lance-shaped and toothed at the margins. The leaves are about 6-20 cm long and 2-4 cm wide, with a dark green color on the upper surface and lighter green on the lower surface. The flowers are small and usually greenish-yellow in color and are borne in clusters. The fruit is a small achene with a pappus of whitish hairs. The plant generally has an attractive appearance with a lush green foliage and is a popular ornamental plant.
Growth Conditions for Baccharoides calvoana subsp. usambarensis
Light: Baccharoides calvoana subsp. usambarensis typically grows in shady and partially shaded areas. It thrives under dappled sunlight or under the shade of taller trees. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and stunt the growth of the plant.
Temperature: The ideal temperature range for Baccharoides calvoana subsp. usambarensis is 16 to 27 degrees Celsius. It prefers a cooler environment and cannot tolerate extreme heat or frost. In colder areas, the plant can lose its leaves during winter and may become dormant.
Soil Requirements: Baccharoides calvoana subsp. usambarensis grows well in well-draining, sandy soils with a slightly acidic or neutral pH. It prefers fertile soils that are rich in organic matter, such as forest soil. The plant can tolerate drought but may suffer from root rot if the soil is constantly moist.
Watering: Baccharoides calvoana subsp. usambarensis requires regular watering during the hot, dry months but can tolerate occasional drought. The plant does not like sitting in water, so it is essential to let the soil dry out a bit between watering sessions. Overwatering can lead to root rot and stunt the growth of the plant.
Fertilizer: Baccharoides calvoana subsp. usambarensis does not require much fertilizer. However, you can give it a mild dose of organic fertilizer during the growing season to encourage lush growth. Be careful not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can damage the roots.
Cultivation Methods for Baccharoides Calvoana Subsp. Usambarensis
To successfully cultivate Baccharoides calvoana subsp. usambarensis, it is essential to plant the seedlings in fertile, well-drained soils. This plant prefers sandy loam soils that are rich in organic matter with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. In addition, it requires a warm and humid climate, making it an ideal plant for tropical and subtropical regions.
To propagate Baccharoides calvoana subsp. usambarensis, you can either use seeds or stem cuttings. When planting the seedlings, ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged, and keep the young plants sheltered from direct sunlight until they have established their roots.
Watering Needs for Baccharoides Calvoana Subsp. Usambarensis
Baccharoides calvoana subsp. usambarensisis a plant that thrives well in moist soils. However, it is important to ensure the soil is not waterlogged, which can cause root rot. A steady and controlled supply of water throughout the growing season will provide the plant with optimal moisture levels and ensure optimal growth. Therefore, it is recommended to water the plant regularly and avoid letting the soil dry out completely between watering.
Fertilization of Baccharoides Calvoana Subsp. Usambarensis
Baccharoides calvoana subsp. usambarensis requires a moderate amount of fertilizer to guarantee optimal growth and health. During the growing season, you can apply a balanced complete fertilizer with equal concentrations of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus to help facilitate growth and development. However, it would be best to avoid over-fertilizing the plant, which can lead to problems like leaf burn or shoot death.
Pruning Baccharoides Calvoana Subsp. Usambarensis
Baccharoides calvoana subsp. usambarensis does not require extensive pruning, but regular trimming will help maintain the plant's desired shape and size. USDA recommends that you perform the pruning in the early spring before the plant begins to produce new growth. Removing dead or damaged stems will also help promote new healthy growth.
Propagation of Baccharoides calvoana subsp. usambarensis
There are several methods of propagating Baccharoides calvoana subsp. usambarensis, including:
Seed Propagation
The plant produces seeds that can be used for propagation. Collect the matured seeds and sow them in a well-draining soil mix. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and ensure they receive adequate moisture and light. Germination varies between 1-4 weeks, but typically, it takes 2-3 weeks for the seeds to germinate. Once the plant establishes, repot them and grow them under partial shade. When fully grown, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Division Propagation
Division propagation can be done when the plant is large. Remove the plant from the pot and carefully separate the roots into two or more sections. Each section should have enough roots and foliage to support growth and establish roots from the cut effected on each piece. Plant each section in the appropriate-size pot, water and move to a shaded area. Repot when necessary.
Stem Cuttings Propagation
Stem cuttings are another method of propagation for Baccharoides calvoana subsp. usambarensis. This method is usually successful when done during the wet season. Take a cutting of the plant stem (a healthy stem with leaves) and plant it in soil mix that is well-draining. Keep the soil moist, and place the cutting in a shaded area. In 3-4 weeks, roots will begin to grow, and you can transplant the cutting to a bigger pot.
Regardless of the propagation method chosen, it is essential to provide the appropriate growing conditions, including watering when dry, ensuring the soil mix is well-draining while maintaining humidity.
Disease Management
There are several diseases that may affect Baccharoides calvoana subsp. usambarensis, such as:
- Root rot: This fungal disease can be caused by several pathogens, leading to symptoms like yellowing and wilting leaves, stunted growth, and plant death. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering or poor drainage and remove infected plants.
- Leaf spot: It's caused by fungi, and its symptoms include brown or black spots that appear on leaves. To prevent leaf spot, prune affected leaves, keep the plant clean and dry.
- Powdery mildew: It is caused by a pathogen that leaves a white powder on the leaves, making them appear dusty or dirty. To manage powdery mildew, remove infected plant parts and control humidity levels and avoid overcrowding.
Pests Management
Baccharoides calvoana subsp. usambarensis may also be susceptible to attacks by certain pests. Here are some common pests that may affect the plant and how to manage them:
- Spider mites: These pests look like tiny spiders and can cause yellowing of leaves and webbing on the plant's surface. To combat them, wash the plant with a hose or a strong spray of water and use insecticidal soap.
- Mealybugs: they appear as white fuzzy looking masses and suck sap from the plant. To control Mealybugs use rubbing alcohol or a mixture of water and dish soap and spray them on the affected areas.
- Thrips: They are tiny insects that feed on the leaves of the plant, damaging them. To control them, remove affected plant parts, apply insecticidal soap, and avoid overcrowding.
