Origin
Canthium ovatum, also known as Burtt Davy, is a member of the Rubiaceae family and is native to Southern Africa, particularly in Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and South Africa.
Common Names
The Canthium ovatum is known by several common names, such as Small-leaved Quest, Small-leaved Waterbessie, and Rooiwortel.
Uses
The Canthium ovatum has a variety of uses in traditional medicine. The plant's leaves and roots have been used as a remedy for various ailments, including diarrhea, tuberculosis, and stomach aches. An infusion of the leaves is also said to be helpful in treating high blood pressure and fever. Moreover, the bark of the plant contains compounds that have shown anti-inflammatory properties.
General Appearance
The Canthium ovatum is a small shrub that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. The plant's leaves are small and oval-shaped, with a glossy green appearance. The flowers are small and yellow, and they bloom from spring to summer. The plant produces small red berries that mature in the autumn, and which are said to be eaten by birds and various wildlife.
Growth Conditions for Canthium ovatum
Canthium ovatum, commonly known as forest koko or African boxwood, is a large shrub or small tree that belongs to the family Rubiaceae. The plant is native to Africa, ranging from West to East Africa. Canthium ovatum thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, and its growth is influenced by several factors such as light, temperature, and soil type.
Light Requirements
Canthium ovatum prefers partial shade to full sunlight. When growing in the wild, the plant is often found in forest margins, understory, and clearings. The plant performs well in bright, diffused light, and does best when protected from strong winds. As a result, Canthium ovatum is suitable for planting in areas with moderate shade that still receive a good amount of sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Canthium ovatum grows optimally in temperatures ranging from 20 to 30°C (68 to 86°F). However, the plant can tolerate slightly lower or higher temperatures for short periods. In areas with temperatures lower than 5°C (41°F), the plant may not grow optimally, and its leaves might turn brown and fall off. Similarly, excessive heat and drought stress can prevent the plant from thriving, and it may require frequent watering to remain healthy.
Soil Requirements
Canthium ovatum prefers well-draining soils that are moist but not waterlogged. The plant grows well in both acidic and neutral soils, but it cannot tolerate highly alkaline soils. The soil should be rich in organic matter, which helps retain moisture and provides essential nutrients. In areas with poor soils, adding compost or other organic material can improve the soil quality and enhance plant growth. Additionally, Canthium ovatum can be propagated both in pots and in the field, provided that the soil is well-draining, aerated, and rich in nutrients.
Cultivation methods
The Canthium ovatum plant thrives in well-draining soil with a neutral pH of around 7.0. The plant should be grown in a location with partial shade and protection from strong winds. This plant prefers humidity, so placing a tray of water nearby or misting the plant daily can help to maintain moisture levels. Ensure that the plant receives adequate air circulation to prevent fungal infections.
Watering needs
The Canthium ovatum plant requires watering once a week, or when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot, by ensuring that the pot has sufficient drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. During the summer months, the plant may require more frequent watering due to increased evaporation rates caused by warmer temperatures.
Fertilization
During the growing season, it is best to fertilize the Canthium ovatum plant every 2-3 weeks using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength to avoid burning the plant's delicate roots. Do not fertilize during the plant's dormant period, which occurs during the winter months.
Pruning
The Canthium ovatum plant benefits from regular pruning to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Pruning should be carried out during the plant's dormant period to avoid disturbing its growth. Remove any damaged or diseased branches, cutting back to just above a healthy leaf node. You can also prune to control the plant's size or to encourage bushier growth by cutting back the tips of branches.
Propagation of Canthium ovatum
Canthium ovatum (Burtt Davy) Burtt Davy, commonly known as white ebony, is a small evergreen tree species native to Southern Africa. The plant can be propagated through different methods, including seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Propagation by seeds
Propagation of Canthium ovatum by seeds is a straightforward process, and the plant usually sets plenty of fruits when grown under appropriate conditions. The best time to collect the fruits is when they are ripe, which is usually in late summer or early autumn.
After collecting the fruits, remove the flesh and wash the seeds thoroughly in water to remove any pulp. Allow the seeds to dry before planting in a well-drained seedling mix. Cover the container with a plastic bag and place in a warm, bright location, but away from direct sunlight. The seeds will germinate within 3-4 weeks.
Propagation by cuttings
Propagation of Canthium ovatum by cuttings can be done from both hardwood and softwood. However, hardwood cuttings are more successful and should be taken from the previous year's growth. Take cuttings with a length of about 10-15 cm and remove any leaves along the lower half of the cutting.
Dip the cutting's base in rooting hormone and then plant it in a well-draining rooting medium. Cover the container with a clear plastic bag and place in a bright location, but away from direct sunlight. Keep the rooting medium moist, and the cutting should root within 4-6 weeks.
Propagation by layering
Propagation of Canthium ovatum through layering is an effective method for plants that have low rooting potential. This method involves bending a low hanging branch towards the ground and then wounding the bark where it touches the soil. Place some rooting hormone on the wounded area, cover with soil, and hold down with a wire or stone.
Leave the branch on the ground until it has rooted well enough to support itself, usually after 6-12 months. Once it has rooted, cut the branch from the mother plant and transplant it to its permanent location.
Disease Management
The Canthium ovatum plant is susceptible to various fungal and bacterial infections that weaken and damage its leaves, stems, and roots. One of the most common diseases is anthracnose, which presents as dark brown spots on the leaves, causing them to curl and wilt. To manage this disease, it is essential to remove and destroy all infected plant parts and maintain good air circulation around the plant. Fungicides and bactericides can also be applied to control and prevent further outbreaks.
Leaf spot is another fungal infection that presents as small, circular spots on the leaves, and can spread to affect the stems and flowers. Removing and destroying all infected plant parts and avoiding overhead watering can reduce the spread of the disease. Application of fungicides can also help prevent further infections.
Pest Management
The Canthium ovatum plant can be attacked by various insect pests, such as aphids, mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. These pests suck the sap from the plant, which weakens it and makes it susceptible to diseases.
To manage and control these pests, it is essential to inspect the plant regularly and remove any infested parts. Applying insecticides can also control pest populations. A more environmentally-friendly approach would be to introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings that feed on these pests.
