Origin and Common Names
Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma melanthesoides (Baill.) Radcl.-Sm. is a plant species that belongs to the family Phyllanthaceae. It is native to Madagascar and is commonly known as "Voanjoa," "Voandoloha," "Voamboanjo," and "Fenonjoa."
Appearance
Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma melanthesoides is a shrub or small tree that can reach a height of up to 12 meters. It has a cylindrical trunk that can have a diameter of up to 30 cm. The branches are spreading and covered with gray-brown bark that peels off in thin flakes. The leaves are alternate, simple, and have an elliptic shape. They are about 10-18 cm long and can be glossy or dull, depending on the plant’s growth stage. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, with male and female flowers occurring on separate trees. The fruit is a rounded, 1-2 cm diameter drupe with a fleshy exterior and a hard stone in the center.
Uses
The bark, leaves, fruits, and roots of Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma melanthesoides have been traditionally used in Madagascar for medicinal purposes. Decoctions and infusions made from the bark and leaves have been used for their laxative, purgative, and antimicrobial properties. The fruit is edible and is used to make jams and jellies. The wood is low-quality and is not suitable for construction or fuel, but it is useful for carvings and craftwork. The plant is also used as a shade tree and as a decorative plant in gardens and parks.
Light Requirements
The plant Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma melanthesoides (Baill.) Radcl.-Sm. requires bright, indirect light to grow well. It cannot tolerate direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves and damage its overall growth. Therefore, it is best to place this plant near a north or east-facing window where it can get sufficient light without being exposed to direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm, humid conditions. The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). It cannot tolerate extreme cold or hot temperatures. Exposure to temperatures below 10°C (50°F) can cause damage to its foliage and stunt its growth. Similarly, exposure to temperatures above 35°C (95°F) can cause the plant to wilt and suffer from heat stress.
Soil Requirements
Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma melanthesoides (Baill.) Radcl.-Sm. requires well-draining, nutrient-rich soil to thrive. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, as excess water can cause root rot. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and loam soil is ideal for this plant's growth. The soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7.0, slightly acidic to neutral, as it cannot tolerate highly alkaline or acidic soil conditions.
Cultivation
Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma melanthesoides (Baill.) Radcl.-Sm. is a tropical plant that thrives in warm, humid environments. It can be grown indoors as a houseplant or outdoors in regions with warm temperatures, high humidity, and partial shade.
The plant requires well-draining acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. Adequate planting depth and spacing should be observed, and the soil should be kept moist but not too wet.
Watering Needs
This plant prefers moist soil, but overwatering should be avoided as it can result in root rot. Watering should be done when the top inch of the soil feels dry. The plant requires more frequent watering during the growing season and less during the dormant period. It is essential to use room temperature water to avoid shocking the plant.
Fertilization
Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma melanthesoides (Baill.) Radcl.-Sm. benefits from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied during the growing season at half the recommended strength.
Alternatively, a liquid fertilizer can be used once or twice a month, diluted to half the recommended strength. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid overfertilization, which can be harmful to the plant.
Pruning
This plant requires minimal pruning, and it is only necessary to remove dead or damaged leaves and branches. Overgrown plants can be lightly trimmed to encourage bushy growth, but it is crucial to avoid excessive pruning, which can stunt growth or cause stress to the plant.
Propagation of Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma melanthesoides (Baill.) Radcl.-Sm.
Propagation of Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma melanthesoides (Baill.) Radcl.-Sm. can be achieved by the following methods:
Seed propagation
Seeds can be collected from the plant when they are mature and ripe. The seeds need to be soaked in water for 24 hours to remove any pulp and then dried in shade. The seeds should be sown immediately in a potting mix that is well-draining. The pot should be kept in a warm and well-lit area, but out of direct sunlight. Germination can take up to 2-3 weeks.
Cuttings propagation
Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma melanthesoides (Baill.) Radcl.-Sm. can also be propagated through cuttings. Semi-hardwood cuttings that are 4-6 inches long and have a few leaves can be taken from the parent plant in early summer. The cuttings should be planted in a potting mix that is well-draining and kept moist. After about 4-6 weeks, the cuttings should develop roots and can be transplanted into individual pots.
Air layering propagation
Air layering is another propagation method that can be used for Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma melanthesoides (Baill.) Radcl.-Sm. In this method, a branch from the parent plant is selected and a small section of bark is removed. A rooting hormone is applied to the exposed area and the area is wrapped with damp moss. The moss is then covered with plastic wrap to hold in moisture. After 2-3 months, the branch should develop roots and can be removed from the parent plant and transplanted into a pot.
Disease Management
One of the most common diseases that affect Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma melanthesoides (Baill.) Radcl.-Sm. is leaf spot. This disease is caused by various fungal species that can survive in soil and plant debris. To manage this disease, it is crucial to remove infected parts of the plant, improve air circulation around the canopy, and avoid overhead irrigation. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of leaf spot, but they are most effective when used preventively.
Another disease that can impact Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma melanthesoides (Baill.) Radcl.-Sm. is powdery mildew. This disease is recognizable by the white or grayish powder that appears on the surface of leaves, stems, and flowers. Powdery mildew is favored by warm and humid conditions, and it can be managed by regularly removing plant debris, providing adequate spacing between plants, and using fungicides when necessary.
Pest Management
One of the most common pests that attack Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma melanthesoides (Baill.) Radcl.-Sm. is the whitefly. These insects feed on the sap of the plant, weakening its immune system, and causing stunted growth, yellowing, and leaf drop. To manage these pests, it is important to regularly check the underside of leaves for whitefly eggs and nymphs. Non-toxic insecticidal soap or horticultural oils can also be used for control.
Another pest that can affect Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma melanthesoides (Baill.) Radcl.-Sm. is the spider mite. These tiny arthropods feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellow stippling and defoliation. To manage spider mites, it is important to increase humidity levels around the plant, remove plant debris, and use predatory mites or insecticidal sprays when necessary.
