Canthium bibracteatum auct.
Canthium bibracteatum auct., also known as the two-bracted canthium, is an evergreen tree or shrub that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is native to tropical Africa, from Sudan south to Angola, Zambia, and Malawi, and west to Cameroon and Gabon.
Common Names
The plant is known by a variety of common names, including two-bracted canthium, two-flowered canthium, and African wild olive. In Nigeria, it is also referred to as "Eleko" or "Shapo".
Uses
The bark, leaves, and roots of Canthium bibracteatum auct. have various medicinal uses. The leaves are used as a traditional remedy for treating rheumatism, fever, and malaria, while the root decoction is used to treat diarrhea and dysentery. The bark is also used to treat a range of ailments, including stomachache, skin rash, and snake bites.
Additionally, the wood of the tree is used for making furniture and construction material, and the leaves are used as fodder for livestock.
General Appearance
Canthium bibracteatum auct. is a small to medium-sized tree or shrub that can grow up to 10 meters in height, although it is usually smaller. The branches are slender and have a dense crown of dark green leaves that are glossy above and paler below. The plant produces small, white, sweetly-scented flowers that are arranged in pairs and are followed by small berries that ripen from green to yellow or orange.
The bark of the tree is smooth and grey-brown, with vertical fissures and shallow furrows, and the wood is hard and durable. The leaves are simple, opposite, and ovate or elliptical in shape, with a pointed tip and a smooth margin.
Overall, Canthium bibracteatum auct. is an attractive small tree or shrub with various medicinal and practical uses.
Light Requirements
The plant Canthium bibracteatum auct. is typically found growing in areas with partial to full sunlight. This means that it requires access to at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Without sufficient light, the plant may appear stunted or fail to produce flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The Canthium bibracteatum auct. plant thrives in warm to hot temperatures and is typically found in tropical and subtropical regions. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit (15-27 degrees Celsius), but it can tolerate temperatures as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius) for short periods. Consistent exposure to temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit may damage or kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
The Canthium bibracteatum auct. plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers a soil pH level between 6.0-7.5 and does not tolerate waterlogged or compacted soil. One way to improve drainage is by adding sand or perlite to the soil mix. Adding a layer of mulch around the base of the plant can help to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Cultivation of Canthium bibracteatum auct.
Canthium bibracteatum is a tropical deciduous shrub that thrives well in warm and humid environments with moderate sunlight. It requires a well-draining and fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. You can cultivate the plant in a pot or a garden bed, but it should be protected from direct sunlight and strong winds.
Watering Needs of Canthium bibracteatum
Proper watering is critical for the growth and development of Canthium bibracteatum. The plant needs regular and consistent watering to maintain the soil moist, but not waterlogged. You should avoid overwatering the plant to prevent root rot. During the hot seasons, you may need to water the plant more frequently, but you should reduce watering during the colder seasons.
Fertilization of Canthium bibracteatum
Applying a balanced fertilizer can enhance the growth and blooming of Canthium bibracteatum. You can apply a slow-release fertilizer once every three months or a liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions when using fertilizers to prevent over-fertilization, which can lead to burning of the roots and leaves.
Pruning of Canthium bibracteatum
Pruning is vital for controlling the size and shape of Canthium bibracteatum. You should prune the shrub in early spring or late winter before the blooming season to remove dead or diseased branches, shape the plant, and encourage new growth. Avoid pruning during the flowering season to prevent reducing the number of blooms. You can also remove the faded flowers periodically to promote continuous blooming.
Propagation methods for Canthium bibracteatum auct.
Canthium bibracteatum auct. can be propagated using various methods which include
Seed Propagation
The plant's seeds can be collected and planted in trays or sown directly into the ground. Seed germination can take about 3-4 weeks. However, the viability of the seeds is low and seedlings may not be true to type.
Cuttings Propagation
Canthium bibracteatum auct. can be propagated using stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from semi-hardwood or hardwood, treated with a rooting hormone and planted in a rooting medium such as sand or perlite. Rooting can take up to 4 weeks or longer.
Air Layering
This is a method where roots are encouraged to form on a stem while it is still attached to the parent plant. A ring of bark is removed from the stem, and the exposed area is covered with rooting hormone and moist sphagnum moss held in place by plastic wrap or aluminium foil. Roots develop at the site of the injury and when they are well-formed, the stem is cut off and planted.
Division
The plant can be divided easily by splitting the root ball. This method is best done in early spring when the plant is just starting to grow. Each division should have a healthy shoot and a good root system.
Disease and Pest Management for Canthium bibracteatum auct.
Canthium bibracteatum auct. is a species of shrub that is native to the Western Ghats of India. Like other plants, it is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests that can cause significant damage if left unchecked. Here are some of the most common issues and approaches to their management:
Diseases
Leaf spots: Leaf spots are caused by several types of fungi and can appear as small, circular, or irregularly shaped spots on the leaves. These spots can reduce photosynthesis and make the plant look unsightly. Proper pruning, sanitation, and removal of affected leaves can help prevent the spread of the disease. A fungicide may also be necessary to control the infection.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can cause a white powdery growth on the upper surface of leaves or stems. It can stunt growth and cause premature leaf drop. Good ventilation around the plant and removal of infected plant parts can help manage the disease. Fungicides may also be used.
Root rot: Root rot is caused by fungi and can lead to stunted growth, yellowing of the leaves, wilting, and eventual death of the plant. It is often caused by soil that is too wet or poorly drained. Good soil drainage, proper watering, and removal of infected plant parts can help prevent and manage root rot.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause yellowing of leaves, deformation of new growth, and stunt growth. They can be managed by removing them with a strong jet of water or applying insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are soft-bodied, white insects that form cottony masses on the leaves and stems of plants. They can reduce plant vigor and cause leaf drop. They can be managed by removing them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or applying insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Mites: Mites are tiny, spider-like creatures that feed on plant sap, causing leaves to yellow and drop prematurely. They can be managed by spraying with water or applying miticides.
By being vigilant and taking appropriate action, gardeners can keep Canthium bibracteatum auct. healthy and pest-free.
