Overview
Canthium pseudoverticillatum S.Moore subsp. pseudoverticillatum is a plant species that belongs to the family Rubiaceae. This subspecies is commonly known as "Bladder-nut", "Mgorwa" in Swahili, and "Sesangari" in Kamba language. It is a native to eastern and southern Africa and has been introduced in other parts of the world such as Asia and the Americas. The plant has been used for various purposes such as traditional medicine, ornamental purposes, and as a source of food for both humans and animals.
Appearance
The Bladder-nut plant typically grows up to 4 meters tall and has a rounded canopy or bushy shape with a dense crown. The tree has a smooth bark that is light brown in color. The leaves of the plant are simple, opposite and elliptic in shape and grow up to 4 cm long. The leaves are dark green and shiny on the upper surface. The plant produces fragrant white flowers, about 6mm long and 6mm wide. The fruit is a small woody capsule, which splits open when mature, releasing several small seeds.
Uses
Canthium pseudoverticillatum S.Moore subsp. pseudoverticillatum has been widely used in traditional medicine in Africa. The bark, twigs, leaves, and roots of the plant are used to treat a variety of ailments such as fever, malaria, stomach pains, and diarrhea. The plant is also used as a diuretic, to treat urinary tract infections and edema. The fruit and seeds of the plant are used as food by birds and other animals. The plant is also cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks in different parts of the world due to its attractive flowers and foliage.
Additionally, the Bladder-nut plant is used in herbal medicine to make extracts for various health purposes. Research has shown that extracts from this plant have anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal activities. These compounds are due to the presence of various alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids in the plant.
Light
The Canthium pseudoverticillatum S.Moore subsp. pseudoverticillatum plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade with about 4-5 hours of direct sunlight per day. It can also survive in moderate shade but may not have as robust growth as those in brighter light conditions.
Temperature
The Canthium pseudoverticillatum S.Moore subsp. pseudoverticillatum plant is native to subtropical and tropical areas. Therefore, they prefer warm temperatures between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) and can survive in temperatures as low as 10°C (50°F) and as high as 35°C (95°F). These plants do not tolerate frost and are not suitable for cold climates where temperatures go below 10°C (50°F).
Soil
Canthium pseudoverticillatum S.Moore subsp. pseudoverticillatum prefers well-drained soils rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy loam, clay loam, and red soils. The ideal pH for these plants is neutral to slightly acidic, with a range of 5.5 to 7.2.
Cultivation
The Canthium pseudoverticillatum S.Moore subsp. pseudoverticillatum is a tropical plant commonly found in Africa. It can grow up to 6 meters tall and is often used for its medicinal properties. When cultivating this plant, it is important to keep a few things in mind.
First, this plant thrives in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH level. It prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. Plant it in an area with adequate space for growth.
It is best to plant this shrub during the rainy season, which will give it a good start. During the cooler months of winter, the plant will enter a dormant phase.
Watering needs
Canthium pseudoverticillatum S.Moore subsp. pseudoverticillatum requires regular watering during the growing season, especially when planted in sandy soils. Watering should be done when the topsoil dries out. It is important to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
During the dormant season, the plant requires less water. Only water it when the soil dries out completely. Avoid watering the plant during winter when it is dormant.
Fertilization
This plant requires regular fertilization during the growing season to promote healthy growth. Apply a balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium every four to six weeks from spring through summer.
Avoid fertilizing the plant during the dormant season. Overfertilizing can cause the plant to become leggy and less dense, which can lead to weak branches that are more susceptible to breakage.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for maintaining the health and shape of the Canthium pseudoverticillatum S.Moore subsp. pseudoverticillatum plant. Prune during the dormant phase to remove any damaged, dead, or diseased branches. This will help prevent the spread of diseases and pests.
You can also prune the plant during the growing season to shape it. Use sharp pruning shears to remove any unwanted branches and shape the plant. Avoid cutting back more than one-third of the plant's growth at any one time.
Regular pruning will also promote healthy growth and flowering in the plant.
Propagation of Canthium pseudoverticillatum S.Moore subsp. pseudoverticillatum
Canthium pseudoverticillatum S.Moore subsp. pseudoverticillatum can be propagated through various methods mentioned below:
Seeds
The plant produces small, round seeds that can be collected from the plant during the fruiting season. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil or in a seed tray. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist until germination. Germination can take up to a few weeks.
Cuttings
Canthium pseudoverticillatum S.Moore subsp. pseudoverticillatum can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take stem cuttings of about 10 -15 cm long and remove the leaves from the bottom half. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and place it in a pot filled with well-draining soil. Ensure the soil is kept moist and warm until new growth appears.
Layering
Layering is another method of propagating Canthium pseudoverticillatum S.Moore subsp. pseudoverticillatum. In this method, a low branch of the plant is bent to touch the soil. A small cut is made on the branch just below a node and the cut portion is buried in the soil. The branch is held in place using a wire or stake. The branch will sprout roots from the buried cut portion, and once the roots are established, the branch can be cut free from the parent plant and potted separately.
Disease Management
Canthium pseudoverticillatum S.Moore subsp. pseudoverticillatum is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease is characterized by brown to black lesions on leaves and stems, which can lead to defoliation and dieback of branches. To manage anthracnose, remove infected plant parts and ensure proper sanitation practices, such as cleaning pruning tools with a disinfectant.
- Cercospora leaf spot: This fungal disease appears as circular, grayish-brown spots on the leaves. To manage cercospora leaf spot, remove infected plant parts and ensure adequate air circulation around the plant.
- Root rot: This fungal disease attacks the roots, causing wilting, yellowing of leaves, and stunted growth. To prevent root rot, ensure proper soil drainage and avoid overwatering.
Pest Management
Canthium pseudoverticillatum S.Moore subsp. pseudoverticillatum is also susceptible to several pests, including:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests feed on the plant sap, causing yellowing and curling of leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water or use an insecticidal soap.
- Scale insects: These pests secrete a sticky substance, which can lead to the growth of sooty mold. To manage scale insects, remove them from the plant with a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol.
- Leafhoppers: These pests feed on the plant sap, causing yellowing and curling of leaves. To manage leafhoppers, spray the plant with neem oil or an insecticidal soap.
