Overview
Calycobolus insignis (Rendle) Heine, also known as the Saucer Tree or Kikuyu Flat Top, is a shrub species that belongs to the family Rubiaceae and is native to East Africa, particularly Kenya.
Appearance
The Saucer Tree is a small, slow-growing shrub that typically reaches a height of up to 3 meters. Its bark is grayish-brown and has shallow fissures. The leaves are lance-shaped, glossy, and dark green, measuring up to 7 cm long and 4 cm wide. The flowers are small, white, and trumpet-shaped with a yellow center and are borne in clusters of 1-3. The fruit is a small, round, and fleshy drupe that is red when ripe.
Common Names
The Saucer Tree is known by several common names, including the Kikuyu Flat Top, Kikuyu Saucer Tree, and Rendle's Saucer Tree.
Uses
The Saucer Tree has a few medicinal uses among East African communities. The roots and leaves are commonly used to relieve pain, treat stomach ulcers and diarrhea. It's also used as a traditional remedy for fractures, wounds, and snake bites.
In addition to its medicinal uses, the Saucer Tree is also used as a shade tree in agroforestry systems and is grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance.
Light Requirements
Calycobolus insignis thrives in full sunlight and requires at least six hours of direct sun exposure per day. Lack of sufficient sunlight may lead to weak growth, elongated stems, and decreased flowering.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species prefers a warm and humid environment with temperatures between 20°C and 28°C (68°F to 82°F). Temperatures below 10°C (50°F) can cause damage to the plant and stunt its growth, while temperatures above 30°C (86°F) can be lethal for the plant.
Soil Requirements
Calycobolus insignis requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. A pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal for this plant, and it grows well in sandy loam or loamy clay soils. Adding compost or fertilizers can improve soil fertility and the overall health of the plant.
Air Humidity Requirements
This plant species prefers high humidity levels between 60% and 80%. In low humidity conditions, the plant may suffer from leaf drop and stunted growth. Humidity can be increased by using a humidifier, grouping plants together or placing a tray of water near the plant to increase water evaporation.
Cultivation
Calycobolus insignis is an epiphytic plant that can be grown in a potting mix specially designed for orchids. It requires a warm, humid environment and should be kept away from direct sunlight. The plant can be propagated using stem cuttings in the spring or summer.
Watering Needs
The plant's watering needs will vary depending on the weather. During the summer, when temperatures are higher, the plant should be watered more frequently. It is crucial to keep the potting mix moist but not waterlogged, as this could lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Calycobolus insignis requires fertilization every two weeks during the growing season, which is typically spring and summer. A balanced, diluted fertilizer mix is ideal. Fertilizers should be reduced or stopped during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Calycobolus insignis. However, it can be helpful to remove any damaged or dead leaves to promote new growth. Pruning should be done in the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing.
Propagation of Calycobolus Insignis
Calycobolus insignis is a unique plant that can be propagated through various methods. The plant can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and division. Here are some of the propagation methods:
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation through seeds is one of the most common methods used to propagate Calycobolus Insignis. Seeds can be collected when the fruits are ripe. The seeds should be sowed in small pots filled with a well-draining potting mix. The pots should be kept covered with a plastic film until the seeds sprout.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings involves taking stem cuttings from the mother plant and planting them in a suitable potting mix. The cuttings should be around 10 cm long with at least two nodes. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting. The potted cuttings should be kept in a warm and humid environment until the roots develop.
Propagation through Division
Propagation through division involves dividing the mature plant into smaller sections and planting them individually. The plant should be carefully removed from the pot or ground, and the root ball should be separated into sections. Each section should have a minimum of one stem, and the sections should be planted in separate pots filled with fresh potting mix.
Propagation through any of these methods can result in successful growth of Calycobolus Insignis. However, it is essential to provide adequate care and attention to the plant to ensure it grows healthily.
Disease Management for Calycobolus insignis
Calycobolus insignis is a relatively disease-resistant plant species. However, some diseases can still affect it. One of the most common diseases affecting this plant is fungal leaf spot, especially during warm and humid weather conditions.
To manage fungal leaf spot, it's recommended to improve the plant's air circulation by avoiding overcrowding and planting in well-spaced rows. Regularly prune diseased leaves and remove them from the garden to prevent the spread of the disease. Use fungicides if necessary, following recommended doses and application methods.
Another fungal infection affecting Calycobolus insignis is root rot, which results from overwatering and poorly drained soils. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering, ensure proper drainage of the soil, and avoid planting in areas prone to waterlogging.
Pest Management for Calycobolus insignis
Pests can also affect Calycobolus insignis, including spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests suck the plant's sap, leading to stunted plant growth, yellowing of leaves, and drying.
To manage these pests, it's recommended to use natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings. Introduce the predators into the garden, and they will help control the pest's population. Additionally, spraying insecticidal soaps and neem oil on the affected plants helps to manage pest populations.
Regularly monitoring the plant's growth using pheromone traps is another effective way of controlling pest populations. If the population is still high, a chemical application may be necessary, but pesticide use should be the last resort.
