Origin
Catha campestris (Eckl. & Zeyh.) C.Presl, commonly known as Wild khat or Bushman's tea, is a plant species that belongs to the Celastraceae family. It is a drought-resistant plant that is native to the southwestern region of Africa, particularly in Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa.
Common Names
Catha campestris is commonly known as Wild khat, Bushman's tea, or Southern African khat.
Uses
The roots, leaves, and stems of Catha campestris have been traditionally used for various medicinal and cultural purposes. For instance, in Namibia, the plant has been used as a treatment for tuberculosis, stomach ulcers, and as a diuretic. In South Africa, it is used as a painkiller and as a stimulant to combat fatigue and hunger. In addition, the plant has been consumed as a tea by the local communities, who describe it as having a pleasant, bitter taste and a stimulating effect.
General Appearance
Catha campestris is a semi-evergreen shrub that can grow up to 2 to 4 meters in height. It has a single stem, which is usually light brown and slender, with numerous branches that grow upright. The leaves are simple, alternate, and elliptical in shape, with serrated margins and a glossy surface. They are dark green in color on top and lighter green underneath. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are greenish-yellow in color and are arranged in clusters. The fruit is a small, round capsule that has four lobes, and contains one to two yellowish-brown seeds.
Light Requirements
Catha campestris requires full sunlight for optimal growth. The plant should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight every day. In areas with high temperatures, the plant may benefit from light shade during the hottest parts of the day, but overall, it prefers bright light.
Temperature Requirements
Catha campestris is a warm-weather plant and thrives in temperatures between 20-30°C. It cannot tolerate frost or extremely cold temperatures and should be kept away from areas with cold drafts. The plant's growth rate tends to slow down when temperatures reach above 35°C, but it can still survive in hot conditions with proper care.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows best in well-draining, fertile soil. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH level of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil needs to be moist but not waterlogged, and it should never dry out completely. Adding compost or manure to the soil can improve its fertility and drainage. Avoid planting Catha campestris in heavy clay or compacted soils as this can restrict root growth and lead to stunted growth.
Cultivation
Catha campestris is a plant species that prefers acidic to neutral soils with good drainage and full sun exposure. It can grow in poor, sandy soils, but it requires moderate to regular watering, especially during the summer months.
In terms of propagation, you can grow Catha campestris from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a well-draining compost in early spring, and cuttings should be taken in late spring or early summer and placed in rooting hormone before planting.
Watering Needs
Catha campestris is a relatively drought-tolerant plant, but it requires consistent moisture to thrive. During the growing season, it's recommended to water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions and the soil type. To avoid overwatering, make sure the soil is dry to the touch between each watering.
During the winter months, reduce watering to once every two weeks, as the plant is in its dormant phase and requires less moisture.
Fertilization
As with most plants, Catha campestris benefits from regular fertilization. Use a slow-release fertilizer every three months during the growing season, and avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers and fruit.
You can also use a liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season, but make sure to dilute it according to the manufacturer's instructions to avoid burning the roots.
Pruning
Catha campestris doesn't require extensive pruning, but you can shape it into a shrub or tree form if desired. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as any crossing branches that may rub against each other and cause wounds. You can also thin out the branches to improve air circulation and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
If you want to maintain a certain size or shape, you can prune the outermost growth to stimulate new growth from within the plant.
Propagation of Catha campestris
Catha campestris, also known as African wild tea or Zulu tea, is a flowering plant native to Southern Africa. It is a shrub that can grow up to 4 meters tall with leathery leaves and white-pink flowers. It is often used for medicinal and cultural purposes.
Propagating Catha campestris through Seeds
The most common method of propagating Catha campestris is through seeds. The seeds should be fresh, as they lose viability quickly. Collect the seeds from the ripe fruits and store them in a cool and dry place until ready for planting.
The seeds of Catha campestris require a period of stratification, which means exposing them to a cold and moist environment to break their dormancy. Sow the seeds in a mixture of sand and soil and lightly cover them with soil. Keep the soil moist but not wet, and place the container in a cool location with indirect sunlight.
After 4 to 8 weeks, the seeds will begin to germinate. Once the seedlings have a few leaves, they can be transplanted to individual pots. Make sure to provide the plants with plenty of light and water regularly until they are established.
Propagating Catha campestris through Cuttings
Another method of propagating Catha campestris is through cuttings. Take cuttings from the current year's growth, making sure they are at least 15 cm long and have a few nodes. Remove the leaves from the bottom part of the cutting and dip the bottom of the cutting in rooting hormone powder.
Place the cutting in a pot with a mix of sand and soil, and water it thoroughly. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a humid environment and place it in a warm, bright location. Over time, the cutting will develop roots and can be transplanted to a larger pot.
Propagation through cuttings is a faster method than propagation through seeds. However, not all cuttings will develop roots, so it is important to take several cuttings and have patience.
Disease and Pest Management for Catha campestris (Eckl. & Zeyh.) C.Presl
Catha campestris, commonly known as the African wild tea, belongs to the Celastraceae family and is native to South Africa. It can be grown as an ornamental plant or for its medicinal properties. However, like all plants, Catha campestris is susceptible to diseases and pests that can affect its growth and yields. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
1. Powdery mildew: This fungal disease is characterized by white or grayish powdery spots on the leaves and stems. It can affect the plant's photosynthesis and weaken it, leading to stunted growth and lower yields. To manage powdery mildew, remove affected leaves and stems, and apply fungicides containing sulfur or copper in the early stages of the disease.
2. Root rot: Root rot is caused by fungi that infect the roots and prevent the plant from absorbing water and nutrients. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing, and dropping of leaves. To manage root rot, avoid over-watering, improve soil drainage, and apply fungicides containing fosetyl-aluminum or mefenoxam.
Pests
1. Red spider mites: These tiny insects feed on the undersides of the leaves, causing yellowing and eventual defoliation. They thrive in hot and dry conditions and can reproduce rapidly. To manage red spider mites, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil, and maintain high humidity levels.
2. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant's tissues, leading to stunted growth and deformed leaves. They also excrete honeydew, which attracts ants and promotes fungal growth. To manage mealybugs, remove them manually with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol, or spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Regular monitoring and proper sanitation practices, such as removing fallen leaves and debris, can help prevent the spread of diseases and pests. Chemical control should be used as a last resort and only when necessary to avoid harming beneficial insects and pollinators.
