Overview of Calocrater preussii K.Schum.
Calocrater preussii K.Schum. is a plant species belonging to the family Annonaceae. It is a tree that is endemic to Cameroon.
Appearance of Calocrater preussii K.Schum.
The Calocrater preussii K.Schum. can grow up to a maximum height of 30 meters. It has an oblong or ovoid shape and can produce a trunk that is up to 60 centimeters in diameter. The leaves are simple, alternate, and glossy green in color. They measure about 5 to 15 centimeters in length and 2 to 5 centimeters in width. The flowers of Calocrater preussii K.Schum. are small and inconspicuous, measuring about 5 millimeters in diameter.
Common Names of Calocrater preussii K.Schum.
Calocrater preussii K.Schum. is known by various common names, such as limstickle, Uhu-abia, and Awubaghe in Nigeria, and Magnopi in Cameroon.
Uses of Calocrater preussii K.Schum.
The bark of Calocrater preussii K.Schum. has been traditionally used in Cameroon to treat various health conditions such as fever, headaches, stomach ache, and wounds. Additionally, the stem bark extract has been used for its antimalarial and antimicrobial properties. The wood of Calocrater preussii K.Schum. is used for construction purposes as it is durable and resistant to termites. The leaves and seeds are used to fodder livestock.
Light Requirements
The Calocrater preussii K.Schum. plant is known to thrive in partial shade to full sunlight conditions. It requires enough light to carry out photosynthesis, but direct sunlight for long periods can damage the leaves. Therefore, it's recommended to place the plant in an area that receives diffused light.
Temperature Requirements
The Calocrater preussii K.Schum. plant prefers warm temperatures, with an ideal temperature range of 21°C to 27°C. It cannot withstand frost or extreme cold temperatures below 5°C, which can cause stunted growth and even death. Therefore, it's best to grow this plant in a warm climate or indoors in colder regions.
Soil Requirements
The Calocrater preussii K.Schum. plant thrives in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. A pH range of 5.5 to 6.5 is ideal for this plant, and it's recommended to use a potting mix that contains perlite, peat moss, and vermiculite to ensure proper drainage. The plant can tolerate some drought, but it's best to water it regularly and avoid letting the topsoil dry out completely.
Cultivation
Calocarter preussii K.Schum. requires well-draining soil and a warm, humid environment to thrive. It is best grown in a greenhouse or indoor setting to ensure consistent conditions.
Propagation can be done through stem cuttings or by seed. Cuttings should be taken in the spring or early summer and planted in a well-draining mix. Seeds should be sown in a propagator in the spring.
The plant prefers bright, indirect light and should be protected from direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves. Temperatures should be maintained between 18-25°C.
Watering needs
Calocarter preussii K.Schum. requires consistent soil moisture, but it is important not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
The frequency of watering will depend on the indoor temperature and humidity. During the growing season, it will require more frequent watering than during winter when growth slows down.
Fertilization
The plant should be fertilized during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks. Reduce fertilization during the winter when growth slows down. Overfertilization can lead to burnt tips and damage the roots.
Pruning
Calocarter preussii K.Schum. benefits from regular pruning to ensure a bushy, compact shape. Prune in the spring before the growing season to encourage new growth. Cut back to just above a leaf node to encourage branching and bushiness.
Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased leaves as soon as they appear to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Calocrater Preussii K.Schum.
Calocrater preussii K.Schum., also known as the African oil palm, can be propagated through seeds and suckers.
Seed Propagation
Seeds collected from ripe fruit should be soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the outer layer. The outer layer is then removed, and the seeds are planted in a mixture of sand and soil. The seeds should be watered regularly, and germination can be expected in three to six months.
Sucker Propagation
The suckers, or shoots, emerging from the base of the parent plant can be detached from the parent plant and planted elsewhere. A sharp knife should be used to remove the suckers, taking care not to damage the parent plant or the sucker. The sucker can then be planted in a well-prepared hole in fertile soil. Water should be provided regularly, and the sucker should start growing within a few weeks.
It is important to note that suckers should only be taken from a mature and healthy parent plant, as this will ensure that the sucker will develop into a healthy plant.
Disease Management for Calocrater preussii K.Schum.
Calocrater preussii K.Schum. is a susceptible plant to various fungal and bacterial diseases. Fungi such as powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot can infect the plant, causing damage. The best way to manage these fungal infections is by removing any infected leaves and stems and treating the plant with a fungicide. Copper-based fungicides are effective in controlling these fungal infections.
Bacterial infections are common in Calocrater preussii K.Schum. and can cause wilting, yellowing, or necrosis of the affected leaves. To manage bacterial infections, remove any infected plant materials, and spray the plant with copper-based bactericides. Applying a bacterial antagonist to the soil has also been found to suppress the incidence of some bacterial infections.
Pest Management for Calocrater preussii K.Schum.
Calocrater preussii K.Schum. is susceptible to various pests such as spider mites, aphids, whiteflies, and mealybugs. These pests can cause damage to the plant by sucking the sap from the leaves and stems, leading to stunted growth, yellowing of the leaves, and sometimes, death of the plant. To manage these pests, it's important to identify them early and take appropriate measures as soon as possible.
One way to manage these pests is to use insecticidal soaps or oils. These products target the pests while leaving the beneficial insects unharmed. Providing a suitable environment for the predators of these pests, such as ladybugs, lacewings, and predatory mites, can also help control the population of these pests.
