Overview of Brassaia volkensii
Brassaia volkensii is a shrubby tree that belongs to the family Araliaceae. It is native to East Africa, specifically found in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The plant grows in subtropical and tropical regions, in woodland, and forest habitats. It is also commercially grown in various countries worldwide as an indoor plant.
Common Names
The plant has several common names, including African schefflera, dwarf schefflera, and octopus tree. The names are because of its spider-shaped leaves and multiple branches. In East Africa, the plant is known as Muhuruta in Kikuyu and Mgunda mkali in Swahili.
Appearance
The Brassaia volkensii plant can grow up to 4 meters tall and spread to about 2.5 meters. It has multiple branches and a broad canopy, making it an attractive indoor or outdoor plant. The leaves, which are the most striking feature of the plant, grow up to 30 centimeters long and are arranged in an alternate pattern. The leaves have a leathery texture, with multiple lobes that branch out from the central point. The plant's thick stem is usually multi-stemmed, giving it an attractive, bushy appearance.
Uses of Brassaia volkensii
The plant has several uses, including:
- Ornamental: The Brassaia volkensii is popular for its attractive appearance and is grown as an indoor and outdoor ornamental plant. Its leaves are also used in floral arrangements.
- Medicinal: In traditional medicine, the plant's leaves were used to treat gastrointestinal ailments and skin infections. Leaf extracts were also used as insecticides
- Environmental: The plant is useful as a shade tree and suitable for landscaping. It is also a host plant for butterfly species.
In conclusion, Brassaia volkensii is a versatile plant with attractive aesthetics and various uses. It is popular as an indoor ornamental plant and a medicinal plant in traditional medicine. As its cultivation is easy, the plant is increasingly becoming popular in different parts of the world.
Light Requirements:
Brassaia volkensii requires bright, indirect sunlight for healthy growth and development. It can tolerate some direct sunlight in the morning or evening, but too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves. This plant should be placed near a south- or west-facing window with a sheer curtain to filter the light.
Temperature Requirements:
The ideal temperature range for Brassaia volkensii is between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) but will start to suffer if the temperature drops below this. This plant cannot tolerate extreme heat over 90°F (32°C), and it should be kept away from cold drafts and air conditioners.
Soil Requirements:
Brassaia volkensii grows best in well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. A high-quality potting mix that is rich in organic matter is ideal for this plant, and the soil should be kept moist but never waterlogged.
A mixture of peat moss, perlite and vermiculite is an ideal option for growing Brassaia volkensii. Additionally, it is recommended to add some sand to the mixture to enhance the drainage.
Cultivation of Brassaia volkensii
Brassaia volkensii is a slow-growing indoor plant that can reach up to 10 feet tall if grown in the right conditions. It prefers bright, indirect light and temperatures between 60-75°F. This plant is susceptible to root rot, so it's essential to have well-draining soil.
Watering Needs
When it comes to watering Brassaia volkensii, it's best to let the top inch of soil dry out before watering thoroughly. Avoid overwatering, as it can cause root rot. During the winter months, cut back on watering but don't let the soil become completely dry.
Fertilization
Fertilizing Brassaia volkensii isn't necessary, but it can help it grow faster. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). During the winter, when the plant is dormant, reduce the frequency of fertilization or stop completely.
Pruning
You can prune Brassaia volkensii to control its size and shape or to remove any dead or damaged leaves. Use sharp, clean pruning shears and make clean cuts at the base of the stem. You can also remove any yellowing or browning leaves to keep the plant looking healthy. Pruning is best done in the spring before new growth appears.
Propagation of Brassaia volkensii (Harms) Hutch.
Brassaia volkensii, commonly known as the African umbrella tree or schefflera, is a tropical tree native to Africa. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods such as stem cuttings, air layering, and seeds.
Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings are the most common method used to propagate Brassaia volkensii as it is a fast and easy way to multiply the plant. Cuttings should be taken from a healthy parent plant during the growing season when the stem is firm and not woody. The best time to take cuttings is in early summer. Cut 3 to 6 inches of stem, making sure that each cutting has at least one leaf node. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the end of the stem in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining soil and keep the soil moist until new growth appears.
Air layering
Air layering is a method of propagation that involves creating a new plant from a branch of the parent plant by inducing root formation while the branch is still attached to the parent plant. The best time to air layer Brassaia volkensii is during the growing season. Locate a healthy, mature branch and remove a two-inch band of bark from the desired spot on the branch. Wrap moist sphagnum moss around the exposed area and cover it with plastic wrap. Secure the plastic wrap with tape and keep it moist until roots appear. Once roots have formed, remove the branch from the parent plant and plant it in a pot with well-draining soil.
Seeds
Propagation of Brassaia volkensii can also be done by seeds. However, propagation by seeds is a slow process, and it may take several years for the plant to reach maturity. Collect seeds from a mature parent plant and sow them in a pot filled with well-draining soil. Cover the pot with plastic wrap to retain moisture and keep the soil moist until germination occurs. Once the seedlings reach a desirable size, transplant them into individual pots.
Disease and Pest Management of Brassaia volkensii plants
Brassaia volkensii (Harms) Hutch. is a stunning houseplant, also known as the "umbrella plant" or "octopus tree," originated from Mount Kenya, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe. It is a low-maintenance plant and can grow up to 6 feet tall. However, like all plants, it is at risk of being affected by disease and pests if not properly cared for.
Common Diseases
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that is caused by overwatering. The plant will start to show signs of wilting and yellowing leaves. You can prevent this disease by ensuring that you do not overwater your plant, the soil should be well-draining. If the disease has already infected the plant, re-potting it into well-draining soil could be helpful in saving it.
Mushroom Rot: Mushroom rot is also a fungal disease that manifests as gray-brown mushy spots on the foliage. It is cause by high humidity, poor air circulation, and stagnant water. Preventing this disease requires ensuring that the plant is not constantly exposed to high humidity. Control involves careful cleaning of the plant leaves using a damp cloth, pruning off and destroying the infected parts of the plant.
Common Pests
Spider Mites: The spider mite is a common pest that feeds on the sap of the plant, causing it to wilt and have yellow leaves. You can prevent infestations by ensuring that the plant is not in high humidity and by regularly cleaning the leaves with a damp cloth. If infested, we recommend using some natural remedies such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Mealy Bugs: Mealy bugs are small, soft-bodied insects that can be found on the underside of the leaves. They appear as white cotton-like masses and feed on the sap of the plant. To know if your plant is infested, check for yellowing and curling leaves. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to wipe off any visible mealy bugs. For heavy infestations, use insecticidal soaps or consult a professional horticulturist.
Regular plant care such as checking the soil for moisture level, providing optimal lighting requirements, and ensuring the right humidity level, can go a long way in protecting Brassaia volkensii against diseases and pests.
