Overview
Canthium zanzibaricum Klotzsch var. glabristyla Hiern is a species of flowering plant in the coffee family Rubiaceae. It is native to tropical Africa and is commonly found in Tanzania and Kenya.
Common Names
Canthium zanzibaricum Klotzsch var. glabristyla Hiern is commonly known as African poison dogwood or Mnyunyube in Swahili.
Appearance
The plant can grow up to 15m in height and has a dense crown of branches. The leaves are ovate to elliptical in shape, 8-14 cm long and 4-7 cm wide. The flowers are small, cream-colored and fragrant and are borne on axillary cymes. The fruit is a globose drupe that is 1-1.5cm in diameter and turns from green to red when ripe.
Uses
The bark, roots, and leaves of Canthium zanzibaricum Klotzsch var. glabristyla Hiern are traditionally used in African medicine to treat a variety of ailments such as fever, diarrhea, and menstrual problems. The plant also has insecticidal properties and is used to repel mosquitoes.
Light Requirements
The Canthium zanzibaricum Klotzsch var. glabristyla Hiern plant grows best in full sun to partial shade conditions. It requires about 6 hours of direct sunlight to grow and thrive, making it a perfect plant for outdoor settings such as gardens and yards where it can receive enough light. Lack of adequate light may lead to stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and slow overall growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm and humid environments that are characteristic of tropical and subtropical regions. The optimum temperature range for the growth of Canthium zanzibaricum Klotzsch var. glabristyla Hiern is 20 - 30 °C. Extremes of temperature, especially cold temperatures, tend to adversely affect the plant's growth, causing yellowing and dropping of leaves.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained, fertile and slightly acidic soils. The soil pH range should be between 5.6 to 6.5. It thrives in sandy or loamy soils that have good drainage. Waterlogged soils may lead to water stress and a lack of oxygen, which can negatively affect the development of the plant causing root rot and yellowing of leaves.
Cultivation methods
Canthium zanzibaricum Klotzsch var. glabristyla Hiern is a tropical plant that grows well in warm and humid environments. It prefers well-draining soil with high organic matter content.
It thrives best in partial shade to full sun. Therefore, ensure it gets adequate light to stimulate proper growth. If you plan to grow it indoors, use artificial light to supplement natural light.
The plant requires consistent temperatures without extreme fluctuations. The optimal temperature range is between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius.
Watering needs
Canthium zanzibaricum Klotzsch var. glabristyla Hiern requires adequate and consistent watering to thrive. The plant prefers moist soil, but you should avoid overwatering it as it may cause root rot.
It is advisable to water it when the soil surface is dry to touch. Depending on the weather and humidity, you may have to water it at least once or twice a week. Always use room-temperature water as cold or hot water may damage the plant roots.
Remember to drain the excess water from the container to prevent stagnant water, which may cause root rot.
Fertilization
To stimulate proper growth, Canthium zanzibaricum Klotzsch var. glabristyla Hiern requires regular feeding. Use a balanced and water-soluble fertilizer to prevent leaf burn.
During the growing season, apply fertilizer at least twice a month. Alternatively, you can use slow-release fertilizer granules that release the nutrients over time.
Avoid fertilizing the plant during the dormancy period to avoid leaf scorching.
Pruning
Canthium zanzibaricum Klotzsch var. glabristyla Hiern requires regular pruning to stimulate proper growth and maintain its shape.
Use a sharp and sterilized pair of pruners to avoid damaging the plant. Cut away any dead or yellowing leaves and stems.
Trim back the plant to a manageable size, especially if it is grown as a hedge. You can prune up to a third of the plant during the growing season.
Remember to dispose of the pruned bits appropriately and clean the tools to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Canthium zanzibaricum Klotzsch var. glabristyla Hiern
Canthium zanzibaricum Klotzsch var. glabristyla Hiern is commonly propagated through seeds and stem cuttings. Both methods have proven to be successful and relatively easy to carry out. Here are some details on each method:
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Canthium zanzibaricum Klotzsch var. glabristyla Hiern can be collected from ripe fruits found on the plant. Once collected, the seeds can be cleaned and sown in a seedbed filled with well-draining soil. The seedbed should be kept moist and shaded until the seeds germinate, which can take about 3-4 weeks. Once the seedlings are big enough, they can be transplanted to individual pots or directly into the ground.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken anytime during the year, but the best time to take them is during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be about 10-15cm in length, and the leaves on the bottom half of the cutting should be removed. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone powder and inserted into a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a shaded area until they root, which can take about 4-6 weeks. Once the cuttings start to grow, they can be transplanted to individual pots or directly into the ground.
Disease Management
Canthium zanzibaricum Klotzsch var. glabristyla Hiern can be susceptible to various diseases that can impact its growth and health. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
- Leaf spot: This disease manifests as dark spots or patches on the leaves of the plant. To manage it, remove the affected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overly moist soil that leads to fungal growth on the roots. To manage root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant.
- Powdery mildew: This disease appears as a white powder-like substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage it, spray the plant with a fungicide and ensure proper air circulation around the plant.
Pest Management
Canthium zanzibaricum Klotzsch var. glabristyla Hiern can also be impacted by various pests that can cause damage to the plant. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
- Aphids: These are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause stunted growth and leaf yellowing. To manage them, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These are tiny pests that can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage them, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil and increase humidity around the plant.
- Whiteflies: These are small, winged insects that can cause leaf yellowing and stunted growth. To manage them, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil and avoid over-fertilizing the plant.
Regularly inspecting the plant for signs of diseases and pests can help prevent infestations and ensure the plant is healthy and thriving.
