Overview
Capparis corymbosa Lam. var. subglabra Oliv. is a plant that belongs to the family Capparaceae. It is native to Africa and can be found growing in various diverse habitats.
Common Names
The plant has various common names such as Wild Caper, Hairy Capparis, and Bushveld Caper.
Appearance
The Bushveld Caper is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 6 meters tall. The plant is spiny, with branches that bear simple, alternate leaves that are ovate to elliptic in shape and have a smooth margin. The leaves are glossy green and hairy on the lower surface. The plant flowers in the summer months, bearing fragrant pink to white flowers on short, hairy stalks. The flowers give way to fruits that are small and rounded, with a fleshy, edible pulp that contains numerous seeds.
Uses
Capparis corymbosa Lam. var. subglabra Oliv. has several uses in traditional medicine. In Africa, the plant is used to treat numerous ailments, including respiratory infections, fever, and stomach complaints. The fleshy fruit of the plant is edible and is eaten fresh or used to make pickles. The plant also has some economic importance, as the mature fruits are collected and sold in local markets.
Light Requirements
Capparis corymbosa Lam. var. subglabra Oliv. prefers full sunlight to partial shade. It is best grown in locations that receive at least 6 hours of full sunlight each day. In low light conditions, the plant may produce fewer flowers and fruits.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions and thrives in warm temperatures. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C (50°F) but prefers temperatures between 20°C-30°C (68°F-86°F) for optimal growth. Temperatures below 5°C (41°F) can damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
Capparis corymbosa Lam. var. subglabra Oliv. grows well in well-drained soils that are moist and fertile. It can tolerate soils that are slightly acidic to slightly alkaline with pH levels ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. The plant requires regular watering, especially during dry periods, but can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils.
Cultivation methods
The Capparis corymbosa Lam. var. subglabra Oliv. plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. It can be grown in full sunlight or partial shade. The plant is usually propagated through seeds or cuttings. If growing from seeds, soak them in water for a few hours before planting. For cuttings, use a clean, sharp knife to cut a stem from a mature plant and plant it in well-draining soil.
Watering needs
The Capparis corymbosa Lam. var. subglabra Oliv. plant prefers moderate watering. It should be watered when the topsoil is dry. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. During the hot summer months, the plant may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
The Capparis corymbosa Lam. var. subglabra Oliv. plant benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to excessive growth and weak stems.
Pruning
The Capparis corymbosa Lam. var. subglabra Oliv. plant requires minimal pruning. However, pruning dead or diseased branches is essential to maintain the plant's health. Prune the plant in the spring after the last frost. Pinch back the tips of the branches to encourage bushier growth and more flowers.
Propagation of Capparis corymbosa Lam. var. subglabra Oliv.
Capparis corymbosa Lam. var. subglabra Oliv. can be propagated through several methods:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Capparis corymbosa are collected from mature fruits during the months of April and May. The collected seeds are then washed and treated with hot water to break their dormancy. The seeds are stratified for 120 days before sowing in nursery beds. The seedlings are transplanted after 6-8 months into polybags filled with fertile soil and farmyard manure. The seedling is ready for planting after a year.
Cutting Propagation
The softwood cuttings of Capparis corymbosa are collected from healthy mother plants during the months of June and July. The cuttings are then dipped in rooting hormones and planted in a polyhouse filled with a rooting medium containing sand and peat moss. After 2-3 months of careful management, the cuttings develop roots and are ready for transplantation in the field.
Air Layering
For air layering, a 2-3 years old and healthy mother plant is selected. A bark ring of about 2 - 4 cm wide is removed from the branch, and a rooting hormone is applied to the wounded site. The bark is then covered with wet sphagnum moss and a plastic bag. After 2 - 3 months, the roots can be seen emerging from the wounded site. The rooted air layer is then cut from the mother plant and transplanted into the field.
Grafting
Grafting is a common method for propagation of Capparis corymbosa. For grafting, the scions are collected from healthy mother plants that exhibit a strong and disease-resistant growth. The rootstock for the scion is selected from closely related species. The grafting is performed during spring, and the grafted plants are then kept in a polyhouse with regulated temperature and humidity. The plants are ready for transplantation after 6-8 months.
Disease and Pest Management for Capparis corymbosa Lam. var. subglabra Oliv.
Capparis corymbosa Lam. var. subglabra Oliv. is a popular ornamental plant known for its beautiful flowers and foliage. However, like all plants, it is not completely immune to pests and diseases. Below are some common diseases and pests that might affect this plant and the ways to manage them.
Diseases
1. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected leaves immediately. Apply fungicides as needed and ensure proper air circulation around the plant to avoid infection.
2. Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage anthracnose, prune infected branches and destroy them. Apply fungicides and avoid overhead irrigation to reduce humidity around the plant.
3. Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that causes the plant to wilt, turn yellow, and die. To manage root rot, ensure well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Apply fungicides and remove infected plants immediately.
Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves and stems. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and webs on the leaves. To manage spider mites, prune and destroy infected leaves and apply neem oil or insecticidal soap. Ensure proper air circulation around the plant to prevent infestation.
3. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white insects that form cottony masses on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage mealybugs, remove and destroy infected leaves and apply neem oil or insecticidal soap. Use sticky traps to capture and kill adult mealybugs.
In conclusion, Capparis corymbosa Lam. var. subglabra Oliv. requires proper management to prevent and control pests and diseases. Regular inspection and immediate action is necessary to keep this plant healthy and beautiful.
