Description of Calycobolus morthehanii (De Wild.) Heine
Calycobolus morthehanii is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Rubiaceae, also known as the coffee family. The plant is native to tropical regions of central and western Africa, including Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Gabon, and Congo. The plant is known for its unique appearance and has various uses in traditional medicine and agriculture.
Common Names of Calycobolus morthehanii
Calycobolus morthehanii is known by several common names, including Black orchid, Nticua, Entika, and Mpondu.
Uses of Calycobolus morthehanii
The plant has various uses in traditional medicine and agriculture. The bark of Calycobolus morthehanii is used in traditional medicine in Cameroon to treat malaria, fever, and other diseases. The plant has also been used to treat respiratory infections, stomach ulcers, and skin diseases. The root of the plant is used to treat snakebites and scorpion stings. In agriculture, the plant is used to provide shade for coffee plantations.
General Appearance of Calycobolus morthehanii
Calycobolus morthehanii is a perennial plant that grows up to 10 meters tall and has a straight stem that is about 30cm in diameter. The leaves of the plant are dark green, shiny, elongated, and have pointed tips. The flowers are large and dark red, with whitish edges and are shaped like an umbrella. The fruit of the plant is a round, green capsule that turns brown when mature and contains several seeds.
Light Requirements
The Calycobolus morthehanii plant requires a considerable amount of light exposure to grow properly. In a natural environment, it prefers to grow under direct sunlight. Under ideal conditions, the plant should receive about 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. As an indoor plant, it should be placed near a window or under artificial light sources that can provide adequate light.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires moderate to warm temperatures to grow. Ideally, the plant should be grown in a temperature range of 18-27°C (65-80°F). In cooler temperatures, the growth rate of the plant slows down, and it may eventually stop growing. It's crucial to keep the plant away from cold drafts or areas with temperature fluctuations that can damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
The Calycobolus morthehanii plant prefers a well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter. The soil should be able to retain moisture without becoming waterlogged. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand can be used to create a suitable growing medium for the plant. Additionally, the soil's pH level should be maintained between 6.0-7.5, which is slightly acidic to slightly alkaline.
Cultivation methods for Calycobolus morthehanii
Calycobolus morthehanii is an epiphytic plant, which means that it grows on other plants without causing harm. It prefers humid and warm environments, and it's native to tropical Africa.
To cultivate Calycobolus morthehanii, you can use a substrate that contains pieces of bark, sphagnum moss, or coconut fiber. It's essential to choose a container with good drainage and to avoid direct sunlight.
You can add pieces of wood or branches to create a more natural environment that mimics the plant's habitat. This will also serve as support for the plant's growth.
Watering needs for Calycobolus morthehanii
Calycobolus morthehanii requires consistent watering, but it should never be left sitting on a puddle of water. Overwatering is one of the most common causes of rot and disease in this plant.
To water Calycobolus morthehanii, you can mist it daily or every other day. It's also a good idea to water it by placing it in a container of water for a few minutes, making sure the water doesn't reach the substrate's surface. This will ensure that the plant's roots absorb the necessary water, while the substrate is still moist.
Fertilization for Calycobolus morthehanii
You can fertilize Calycobolus morthehanii once a month using a balanced fertilizer. It's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions on the product label, and to avoid overfertilization, as this may cause harm to the plant.
You can dilute the fertilizer in the water you use to mist the plant or add it directly to the substrate. Don't apply the fertilizer to the plant's leaves or flowers, as this may burn them.
Pruning Calycobolus morthehanii
Calycobolus morthehanii doesn't require extensive pruning, but you can trim off any dead or yellow leaves using sterile scissors. This will promote the plant's overall health and encourage new growth.
If the plant becomes too tall, you can trim the branches' tips to encourage lateral growth and a bushier appearance. Remember to avoid cutting more than a third of the plant's height, as this may cause stress and damage.
Propagation of Calycobolus morthehanii
Calycobolus morthehanii (De Wild.) Heine is a plant native to West Africa and is commonly known as the Morthehan's calycobolus. It is a succulent plant that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. Propagation is the process of producing new plants from existing ones. There are different methods of propagating plants. Here are some of the propagation methods for Calycobolus morthehanii:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Calycobolus morthehanii is through seeds. The seeds of this plant are small and are usually black or brown. They should be sowed in well-draining soil, and the soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate. The ideal temperature for germination is between 20°C to 25°C. The seedling should be transplanted when it is big enough to handle, usually in about 3 to 4 weeks after germination. Calycobolus morthehanii plants grown from seeds will take about three years to reach maturity before they can produce flowers.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Stem cutting propagation is another method of propagating Calycobolus morthehanii. Cuttings should be taken from mature plants that are at least two years old. The stem cutting should be about 10cm long and should be left to dry for one to two days before planting. Soil should be well-draining and kept moist until the cutting has rooted. It is advisable to keep the cutting in a shaded place and avoid exposing it to direct sunlight until it has developed roots. After about 4 to 6 weeks, the cutting should have rooted, and it can be transplanted to its permanent spot for growth.
Leaf Cutting Propagation
Leaf cutting propagation is another method of propagating Calycobolus morthehanii. Take a leaf from a mature plant and lay it on well-draining soil. Press it lightly onto the soil, and it should start to root after a few weeks. Ensure that the soil remains moist during the rooting process. A new plant will sprout from the base of the leaf. After the new plant has grown to a reasonable size, it should be carefully transplanted to a permanent spot for normal growth.
Propagation is a rewarding process that helps to increase the number of plants and creates more opportunities for breeding. Using the above methods, gardeners can now propagate and grow Calycobolus morthehanii plants without much difficulty.
Disease Management
Calycobolus morthehanii is a hardy plant that is relatively resistant to diseases. However, like all living organisms, it is still susceptible to a few diseases such as:
- Fungal leaf spots: These are small, circular or irregularly shaped spots that appear on the leaves. They are usually caused by fungi and can be managed by removing the infected leaves and avoiding overhead watering.
- Root rot: This is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. To manage this disease, it is important to ensure that the plant is planted in well-draining soil and not overwatered.
- Viral infections: These are not common in Calycobolus morthehanii, but they can occur and are usually spread by insects. They can be managed by practicing good sanitation and avoiding the use of infected plant material.
Pest Management
Calycobolus morthehanii is also relatively resistant to pests. However, a few pests that might affect the plant include:
- Spider mites: These are tiny pests that can be identified by the fine webbing they produce on the plant. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a solution of water and soap or insecticidal soap.
- Mealybugs: These are small, white insects that appear on the leaves and stems. They can be managed by removing them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
- Scale insects: These are tiny, immobile insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems. They can be managed by using a solution of water and soap or insecticidal soap.
When managing pests, it is important to avoid using harsh chemicals that can harm the plant and the environment. Instead, opt for natural remedies and organic solutions whenever possible.
