Origin and Common Names
Calycobolus campanulatus subsp. campanulatus, also known as the African tree bellflower, is a plant species belonging to the family Campanulaceae. The plant is native to tropical Africa and found in countries such as Nigeria, Cameroon, and Uganda.General Appearance
The African tree bellflower is a small, evergreen tree that stands at a height of up to 8 meters. The plant is characterized by its smooth, light-gray bark and its oval-shaped leaves that grow up to 10cm long and 6cm wide. The leaves are dark green and glossy on the upper surface and lighter in color on the underside. The African tree bellflower produces small, bell-shaped flowers that are typically 1cm long and 1cm wide. The flowers are pinkish-purple with white center spots and grow in clusters on the stems. The plant also produces small, round, and fleshy fruits that are about 1cm in diameter.Uses
The African tree bellflower has a few traditional medicinal uses. The leaves, bark, and roots of the plant are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and are used to treat conditions such as arthritis, rheumatism, and fever. In some African countries, the bark of the plant is also used as a local remedy for snake bites. The fruits of the African tree bellflower are edible and used in cooking in some parts of Africa. They are typically consumed raw or cooked and used to make juice, jams, and sauces. Additionally, the plant is sometimes used in decorative plantings due to its attractive flowers and glossy leaves.Light Conditions
Calycobolus campanulatus (K.Schum. ex Hallier f.) Heine subsp. campanulatus grows best in partial to full sunlight. It requires at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Direct sunlight in the morning is especially beneficial for this plant. Too much shade can inhibit growth and flowering.
Temperature Conditions
This plant thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C. It cannot tolerate temperatures below 10°C. Cooler temperatures can lead to stunted growth or even death of the plant. It is important to protect this plant from frost during the winter months.
Soil Requirements
Calycobolus campanulatus (K.Schum. ex Hallier f.) Heine subsp. campanulatus prefers well-drained, loamy soil. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. It is important to ensure that the soil is rich in organic matter, as this plant requires a lot of nutrients to grow well. A combination of peat moss, compost, and sand can be used to create an ideal growing medium. Avoid water-logged soils as this plant cannot tolerate soggy conditions.
Cultivation Methods
Calycobolus campanulatus, also known as the bell-flowered calycobolus, thrives in a warm and humid environment. It is recommended to cultivate this plant in a greenhouse or indoor setting. Ensure that the plant is exposed to filtered or indirect sunlight. It grows best in well-draining soil mixed with sand and peat moss.
Watering Needs
Calycobolus campanulatus requires consistent and thorough watering. Ensure that the soil is consistently moist, but not waterlogged. During the winter season, reduce the amount of watering, but make sure the soil does not dry out.
Fertilization
Feed the Calycobolus campanulatus plant every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilization as it can cause damage to the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for the Calycobolus campanulatus plant as it does not grow extensively vertically. However, remove any damaged or dead leaves to encourage new growth.
Propagation of Calycobolus campanulatus subsp. campanulatus
Calycobolus campanulatus subsp. campanulatus, commonly known as Bellflower, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Resedaceae. It is native to South Africa and is grown for its ornamental value.
The plant can be propagated by both, seeds and cuttings. However, the success rate of propagation through cuttings is higher than that of seeds.
Propagation through seeds
The seeds of the Calycobolus campanulatus subsp. campanulatus are small and black in color. They should be sown in a well-drained soil mixture in a seed tray and covered with a thin layer of soil. The tray should be kept moist, and the germination period may take up to three weeks.
Once the seedlings have grown to a height of a few inches, they can be transplanted to individual pots. It is ideal to use a potting mix consisting of compost, peat moss, and perlite. The young plants require frequent watering and should be kept in a shaded area until they are established.
Propagation through cuttings
The best time to take cuttings of Calycobolus campanulatus subsp. campanulatus is during the late spring or early summer months. The cuttings should be taken from the healthy stem of a mature plant and should be at least four inches in length.
The lower leaves of the cutting should be removed, and the stem should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cutting should then be transplanted to a potting mix consisting of compost, peat moss, and perlite and watered thoroughly. The pot should be kept in a warm and shaded area until the cutting establishes roots, after which it can be gradually introduced to direct sunlight.
In conclusion, Calycobolus campanulatus subsp. campanulatus can be propagated by seeds and cuttings. The success rate of propagation is higher through cuttings, and the plants require frequent watering and a shaded environment until they are established.
Disease Management
Calycobolus campanulatus is generally a healthy and hardy plant but is not entirely immune to diseases. Some of the common diseases that might affect this plant include:
- Fungal Infections: Leaf spots, root rots, and powdery mildew are some of the fungal infections that can affect this plant. These infections can be controlled by pruning and removing the affected parts of the plant and applying a fungicide spray.
- Bacterial Infections: Bacterial infections such as soft rot and leaf blight can affect the plant. To manage bacterial infections, remove the affected parts of the plant and apply a copper-based fungicide spray.
- Viral Infections: There are no effective treatments for viral infections, so it is essential to prevent their spread by removing affected plants or plant parts and practicing good sanitation.
Pest Management
Some common pests that might affect Calycobolus campanulatus include:
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant causing deformation, stunted growth, and death of the plant. Aphids can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These pests thrive in hot and dry conditions, and they can cause the leaves of the plant to appear stippled and discolored. Spider mites can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Thrips: These tiny insects damage the foliage of the plant causing yellowing, stippling, and curling of the leaves. Thrips can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Caterpillars: These insects feed on the leaves of the plant and can cause extensive damage. Caterpillars can be controlled by picking them off by hand or using Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) biological insecticide.
- Mealybugs: These pests suck the sap of the plant and excrete a sticky substance that attracts ants and can lead to the growth of sooty mold. Mealybugs can be controlled by removing them by hand and applying insecticidal soap or neem oil.
