Introduction:
Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr. is a plant species that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is found in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa. This plant is an evergreen shrub that has multiple uses in traditional medicine and is also cultivated for ornamental purposes due to its beautiful foliage.
Common Names:
Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr. is commonly known as “Ngounie calpocalyx” or “Ngounie butterfly plant” due to its butterfly-shaped leaves. In Cameroon, the plant is known as “Mboè mboè”.
General Appearance:
The plant has a compact and bushy growth habit with a height ranging from 1 to 2 meters. It has glossy, dark green leaves that are arranged in an opposite pattern. The leaves are 12-20 cm long and have a unique butterfly shape with two equal lobes that are joined at the base, forming a V-shaped notch. The plant produces small and fragrant white flowers that bloom in clusters during the summer months, followed by small black berries.
Uses:
The plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as headaches, stomach pains, fever, and snakebites. The leaves of the plant are brewed as tea and consumed to relieve these symptoms. In addition, the plant is used as a natural insecticide to repel mosquitoes and other insects. The plant is also cultivated for its ornamental value and is a popular choice for hedges or as a border plant due to its unique and attractive foliage.
Light Requirements
The Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr. plant prefers to grow in bright, indirect light. It can also tolerate partial shade as long as it receives some sunlight. It is important to avoid placing the plant in direct, harsh sunlight as this can burn the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr. is between 18°C to 25°C. The plant can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures but is sensitive to cold drafts. Therefore, it is best to keep it away from windows, doors, and air conditioning vents.
Soil Requirements
The Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr. plant needs well-draining soil that retains some moisture. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand is a great option. The soil should have a pH level between 5.6 and 6.5. The plant also benefits from regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Cultivation
Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr. prefers to grow in well-drained soils, with moderate moisture retention and a slightly acidic pH level. The plant does well in partial shade or dappled sunlight.
If grown outdoors, it is best to plant Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr. during the rainy season, ensuring enough water supply for the establishment period. The plant can also be grown indoors in a well-lit area without direct sunlight.
Watering Needs
Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr. prefers moderately moist soil. Water the plant before the topsoil dries out completely, but avoid saturating the soil with water.
The watering frequency depends on the temperature and humidity level. During the hot and dry season, water the plant more frequently to keep the soil moist. In contrast, water sparingly during the cool and damp season.
Fertilization
Fertilize Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr. once every two months using a balanced slow-release fertilizer, or a liquid fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength.
During the growing season, add organic matter to the soil surface to help retain moisture and provide nutrients to the roots. Too much fertilizer can burn the roots, so always follow the application instructions and water the plant after fertilizing.
Pruning
Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr. requires minimal pruning to maintain its shape and to remove dead or damaged leaves and stems. Prune the plant after the blooming period to shape it or remove unwanted branches.
Use sterilized pruning shears to avoid transmitting diseases to the plant. Avoid cutting too much of the stem, as this can weaken the plant. Always leave one or two leaf nodes on the stem to encourage new growth.
Propagation of Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr.
Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr. is a rare plant species that is endemic to Cameroon. It is a member of the family Lamiaceae and is commonly known as "Ngounie Balm." Propagation of Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr. can be done through seeds, cuttings, and tissue culture.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds of Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr. can be collected during the fruiting season, which occurs between October and December. The seeds should be extracted from the fruit, dried, and cleaned. The cleaned seeds can be stored until they are ready to be sown.
Seeds of Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr. require a period of cold stratification before they can germinate. This can be achieved by placing the seeds in moist sand or vermiculite and storing them in a refrigerator for about one to two months. After the cold stratification period, the seeds can be sown in well-drained soil in a greenhouse. The soil should be kept moist, and the seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots after they have developed true leaves.
Propagation through Cuttings
Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr. can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Stem cuttings should be taken during the growing season from the current year's growth. The cuttings should be about 10 to 15 cm long and should have at least two nodes. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be treated with a rooting hormone.
The cuttings can be planted in a well-draining soil mix, and the soil should be kept moist. The cuttings should be placed in a shaded area until they have developed roots. After the roots have developed, the plants can be transplanted to individual pots.
Propagation through Tissue Culture
Tissue culture is an alternative propagation method used for Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr. This method involves the use of small pieces of plant tissue, which are placed in sterile conditions and grown in a nutrient-rich medium.
Tissue culture of Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr. starts with the collection of aseptic explants, which are small pieces of plant tissue free from any infections. The explants are placed in a nutrient medium containing plant hormones, which stimulate the growth of new plantlets. The plantlets can be transferred to soil after they have developed roots and leaves.
Tissue culture is a highly controlled propagation method that can produce large numbers of disease-free plantlets in a short period.
Disease Management for Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr.
Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr. is a hardy species of plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. However, like any other plant, it can be susceptible to disease. Some of the common diseases that may affect Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr. include:
Fungal Diseases
Fungal diseases like powdery mildew and anthracnose can affect the leaves and stems of Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr. The best management practice for fungal diseases involves cultural practices like regular inspection and removal of infected plant parts. Fungal diseases can also be treated with fungicides. However, it is important to consult with a professional before using any chemicals on the plant.
Bacterial Diseases
Bacterial diseases like bacterial leaf spot and crown gall can also attack Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr. These diseases usually manifest as yellowing or browning of leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. Good cultural practices like proper sanitation, avoiding over-crowding, and removing infected plant parts can help manage bacterial diseases. Copper-based fungicides can also be used to control bacterial diseases.
Viral Diseases
Viral diseases are less common in Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr. but can still occur. These diseases are usually spread by pests like aphids, whiteflies, or contaminated gardening tools. Symptoms of viral diseases include stunted growth, yellowing, and curling of leaves. Currently, there is no known cure for viral diseases. The best course of action is to prevent their spread by controlling insect pests and using clean gardening tools.
Pest Management for Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr.
Insects and other pests can also pose a threat to Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr. Some of the common pests to look out for include:
Aphids
Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause stunted growth and curling of leaves. They also produce a sticky substance called honeydew that can attract other pests like ants. Aphids can be controlled by using insecticidal soaps or neem oil.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are small, moth-like insects that can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. They also carry viral diseases that can affect the plant. Whiteflies can be controlled by using sticky traps or insecticidal soaps.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are the larval stage of moths and butterflies. They can cause leaves to turn yellow or brown and may chew on fruits or flowers. Caterpillars can be controlled by handpicking or using Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticide.
Good cultural practices like proper watering and fertilization, regular inspection, and removal of infected plant parts can help prevent the occurrence of pests and diseases in Calpocalyx ngouniensis Pellegr.
