Overview
Cephaelis sangalkamensis (Schnell) Schnell is a species of plant in the family Rubiaceae. It is a small evergreen shrub with medicinal properties and is native to West Africa.
Common Names
Common names for Cephaelis sangalkamensis include "Sangalkam Psychotria," "Makandi," and "Gon-Gon."
Appearance
Cephaelis sangalkamensis usually grows up to 2 meters in height and has a slender, angular stem which is covered in smooth grey bark. It has glossy dark green leaves which are ovate and pointed at the tips. The plant produces small white flowers, followed by berries which turn bright red when ripe.
Uses
The roots of Cephaelis sangalkamensis are highly valued for their medicinal properties by traditional healers in West Africa. They are used to treat a variety of conditions, including fever, diarrhea, malaria, and rheumatism. The active ingredient in the roots is called cephaeline, which has been studied for its potential as an anti-cancer drug. Cephaeline is also used in the pharmaceutical industry as an emetic and expectorant.
Light Requirements
Cephaelis sangalkamensis prefers partial to full shade conditions when grown outdoors or in indoor environments, making it an ideal choice for locations with limited sunlight exposure. The plant can tolerate short periods of direct sunlight, but prolonged exposure can cause leaf damage and stunted growth.
Temperature Range
For optimal growth and development, Cephaelis sangalkamensis requires temperatures between 18°C to 27°C (64°F to 81°F). The plant can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures but may exhibit slower growth rates. Protect the plant from frost and any extreme temperature fluctuations, which can stress the plant and impede its growth.
Soil Requirements
Cephaelis sangalkamensis prefers soil with good drainage capabilities and a slightly acidic to neutral pH range between 5.6 to 7.0. The plant thrives in fertile, well-drained soils with organic matter content and can tolerate various soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. Avoid soils that remain waterlogged, as they can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Cultivation
Cephaelis sangalkamensis (Schnell) Schnell, commonly known as Sangalkam coffee, is a species of coffee plant that is native to West Africa. It is a tropical plant that can grow up to 10 feet tall and requires a warm, humid environment. The plant can be propagated from seeds or cuttings.
The optimal soil for Cephaelis sangalkamensis is rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. The plant prefers partial shade to full sun and thrives in temperatures between 60-85°F.
Watering Needs
Cephaelis sangalkamensis requires adequate water to grow and thrive. The plant prefers moist but not water-logged soil. Watering should be done regularly, and the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between watering.
Watering frequency will depend on factors such as the temperature, humidity, and size of the plant. As a general rule, it is better to underwater than overwater the plant.
Fertilization
Cephaelis sangalkamensis requires regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth. The plant is a heavy feeder and benefits from nutrient-rich soil. Organic fertilizers or slow-release fertilizers are recommended to avoid burning the plant's roots.
Fertilization should be done during the growing season, usually from spring to fall. The amount and frequency of fertilization will depend on the plant's size, soil quality, and growth rate.
Pruning
Pruning Cephaelis sangalkamensis is essential to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. The plant should be pruned during the dormant season or after flowering. The plant can be pruned to control its height or to remove damaged or diseased branches.
Cutting back the plant encourages new growth, and pruning should be done carefully to avoid damaging the plant. The use of sterile pruning tools is crucial to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Cephaelis sangalkamensis
Cephaelis sangalkamensis, commonly known as Schnell's coffee, is a shrub native to West Africa. Propagation of this plant can be done using various methods.
Seed propagation
The most common method of propagating Cephaelis sangalkamensis is through seeds. Seeds should be collected from ripe, healthy fruits and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be planted at a depth of about 1 cm and kept moist until germination. Germination can take anywhere from 2-4 weeks.
Cuttings propagation
Propagation of Cephaelis sangalkamensis through stem cuttings is also possible. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants during the growing season and treated with a rooting hormone. The cuttings should be placed in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a humid environment until roots have developed. This process can take up to 6-8 weeks.
Air layering propagation
Air layering can also be used to propagate Cephaelis sangalkamensis. This method involves making a small cut in the stem of the plant and wrapping it with moist sphagnum moss. The moss should be kept moist and roots will eventually develop from the cut area. Once roots have developed, the stem can be cut and planted in a well-draining soil mix.
Regardless of the propagation method chosen, it is important to ensure that the newly propagated plants are kept in a warm, humid environment until they have established roots and can be planted in their permanent locations.
Disease and Pest Management for Cephaelis sangalkamensis (Schnell) Schnell
Cephaelis sangalkamensis (Schnell) Schnell, commonly known as Sangalkam coffee or beni-kawa, is a plant species native to West Africa. It is a popular coffee substitute due to its caffeine content. Like any other plant, it is susceptible to diseases and pests, which can cause significant damage if left unattended. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Cephaelis sangalkamensis and ways to manage them.
Diseases
One of the diseases that affect Cephaelis sangalkamensis is leaf rust, caused by the fungus Hemileia vastatrix. The disease appears as yellowish-orange to reddish-brown powdery spots on the leaves, and severe infections can cause defoliation. To manage leaf rust, farmers should adopt good cultural practices such as pruning, weeding, and removing infected plant parts. Additionally, they can use fungicides to control the spread of the disease.
Brown eye spot, caused by the fungus Cercospora coffeicola, is another disease that affects Cephaelis sangalkamensis. It appears as circular or irregular brown spots on the leaves and stem. Severe infections can cause defoliation and weaken the plant. To manage brown eye spot, farmers should adopt good cultural practices such as proper spacing, pruning, and removal of infected plant parts. They can also use fungicides to control the spread of the disease.
Pests
Cephaelis sangalkamensis is also prone to pest infestations. One of the common pests is coffee berry borer, a tiny beetle that feeds on the coffee beans. The pest causes significant economic losses to coffee farmers. To manage the coffee berry borer, farmers should practice good hygiene by removing infested coffee berries that fall to the ground. They can also use insecticides to control the pest.
Another common pest that affects Cephaelis sangalkamensis is the coffee leaf miner, a tiny moth whose larvae mine the leaves, causing a characteristic serpentine trail. Severe infestations can cause defoliation, reducing the plant's productivity. To manage the coffee leaf miner, farmers should adopt good cultural practices such as pruning, weeding, and removal of infected plant parts. They can also use insecticides to control the pest.
Conclusion
Diseases and pests are a threat to the productivity of Cephaelis sangalkamensis. Therefore, farmers should adopt good cultural practices to prevent the spread of diseases and mitigate pest infestations. Preventive measures are critical in disease and pest management, and farmers should act promptly when they observe any signs of infestation.
