Overview
Cephaelis tabouensis Schnell, also known as Tabou Root or Tabu Root, is a small tree from the Rubiaceae family. This plant is native to tropical regions of West Africa, including Ivory Coast, Sierra Leone, and Guinea.Appearance
Tabou Root grows up to four meters in height and has an erect stem with a diameter of up to two cm. The tree has alternate, oval-shaped leaves that grow up to 17 cm long and 7 cm wide. The flowers are white and have a tubular shape, growing in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a small capsule, up to two cm in length, that contains two seeds.Traditional Uses
Tabou Root has traditional medicinal uses, especially among the ethnic groups in West Africa. The roots and stem bark of this plant are used to create herbal remedies for various ailments, including fever, migraine, and diarrhea. In Ivory Coast, the leaves and the roots are also used to treat spider bites and snake bites. The plant contains alkaloids that are believed to have antipyretic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties.Commercial Uses
Tabou Root has been researched for its potential as a commercial source of the alkaloid cephaeline, which has been used in the pharmaceutical industry as an emetic (to induce vomiting), a bronchodilator (to relieve respiratory problems), and an anti-tumor agent. Extracts from the plant have also been used as pesticides, and studies have shown that the plant has antiviral and antibacterial properties. In conclusion, Cephaelis tabouensis Schnell, or Tabou Root, is a tropical tree with traditional and commercial uses, and potential medicinal and industrial applications.Light Requirements:
Cephaelis tabouensis Schnell prefers moderate to high light conditions. It thrives well in bright, indirect sunlight, so it should be placed near a window that receives ample sunlight. Direct sunlight can damage the plant, so it's best to avoid exposing it to direct sunlight for extended periods.
Temperature Requirements:
The ideal temperature range for Cephaelis tabouensis Schnell to grow is between 18°C to 25°C, which is consistent with typical household settings. It's a tropical plant that prefers warm and humid conditions, but extreme heat can cause damage to the leaves. Exposure to cold temperatures can be detrimental to the plant, so it should be kept away from draughts or cold air-conditioning vents.
Soil Requirements:
Cephaelis tabouensis Schnell thrives in well-drained soil that's rich in organic matter, such as peat moss or compost. Soil pH should be between 5.5 to 6.5, and the soil should be loose and aerated for optimal root health. The plant does not tolerate water-logged soil situations, so make sure the pot has proper drainage. Regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer should be done to maintain healthy growth.
Cultivation of Cephaelis tabouensis Schnell
Cephaelis tabouensis Schnell, commonly known as Tabu coffee, is a tropical plant found in Central and South America. In its natural habitat, this plant grows in humid forests at an altitude of 1000 to 2000 meters. It can be grown as an indoor or outdoor plant, provided the correct growing conditions are provided.
Watering Needs
Cephaelis tabouensis Schnell requires moist soil. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Frequent watering is necessary during the growing season, whereas reduced watering is advisable in winter or when the plant is in its dormant phase.
Fertilization of Cephaelis tabouensis Schnell
Cephaelis tabouensis Schnell needs a balanced and slow-release fertilizer three times a year during the growing season. It is best to fertilize the plant before watering and avoid fertilizing a dry plant.
Pruning Cephaelis tabouensis Schnell
Pruning of Cephaelis tabouensis Schnell is required to keep the plant's size manageable and to promote branching. Pruning is best done during the growing season to avoid stunting the plant's growth. Regular removal of dead or yellow leaves is also recommended to keep the plant healthy.
Propagation of Cephaelis tabouensis Schnell
Cephaelis tabouensis Schnell, commonly known as Tabou coffee, is a shrub species native to the Ivory Coast and other African countries. It is grown for its coffee-like seeds that contain caffeine and other alkaloids commonly used in traditional medicine. Propagation of Cephaelis tabouensis can be achieved through several methods, including:
Seed propagation
Propagation through seeds is the most commonly used method for Cephaelis tabouensis. Seeds can be directly sown in well-prepared soil or in seed trays or pots. However, the seeds need to be carefully extracted from the fruit and washed to remove the pulp before planting. It is recommended to use fresh seeds that have not been stored for too long because they have low viability. Seedlings usually emerge within 1-2 weeks after sowing, and they can be transplanted to their permanent location after 4-6 months.
Cuttings propagation
Propagation through stem cuttings is possible for Cephaelis tabouensis, although it is more challenging than seed propagation. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, mature plants during the growing season and immediately planted in a well-draining, sterile potting mix. It is essential to keep the soil moist and to protect the cuttings from direct sunlight. Rooting can take up to several months, and not all cuttings will succeed.
Air layering propagation
Propagation through air layering is a more advanced technique that involves creating a wound in a stem and inducing roots to form at the site of the injury. This process allows for the formation of new plants while the parent plant remains intact. To air layer Cephaelis tabouensis, a section of the stem should be selected, and a slanted cut made through the bark and cambium layer. Rooting hormone can be applied to encourage root growth, and the wound can be wrapped with damp sphagnum moss and plastic wrap to maintain humidity. If roots successfully form, the new plant can be separated from the parent once it is large enough to survive on its own.
In conclusion, Cephaelis tabouensis can be propagated using seeds, stem cuttings, or air layering. Each method has its advantages and challenges, but with proper care, successful propagation can be achieved.
Disease Management for Cephaelis tabouensis Schnell
Cephaelis tabouensis Schnell is vulnerable to several diseases that could limit its growth and yield. Here are some of the most common diseases that infect the plant:
- Rhizoctonia root rot: This disease causes the roots of the plant to rot, consequently causing the leaves to wilt and turn brown. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure proper soil drainage. Use fungicides, such as azoxystrobin and fludioxonil, to control the disease.
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that causes dark lesions on the leaves and stems of Cephaelis tabouensis Schnell. To manage this disease, ensure good air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead watering, and use copper-based fungicides to suppress the disease.
- Phytophthora root rot: This disease affects the roots of the plant, leading to stem cankers, and stunted growth. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering the plant, improve soil drainage, and use fungicides such as fosetyl-al and metalaxyl.
Pest Management for Cephaelis tabouensis Schnell
Cephaelis tabouensis Schnell is vulnerable to several pests which can damage the plant and reduce its yield. Here are some of the most common pests that affect the plant:
- Spider mites: These tiny arachnids cause damage to the leaves of Cephaelis tabouensis Schnell by sucking sap from them, resulting in yellow and brown spots. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap, horticultural oils, or miticides such as abamectin.
- Scale insects: These pests suck sap from the plant leaves and can cause the plant to wilt and die. To manage this pest, remove them manually, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or use an insecticide such as imidacloprid.
- Whiteflies: These pests cause damage to the plant by feeding on the sap of the leaves, leaving behind yellow spots. To manage this pest, use yellow sticky traps, insecticidal soaps, or horticultural oils.
It's important to monitor Cephaelis tabouensis Schnell regularly to catch diseases and pests early before they cause significant damage. Implementing good cultural practices such as proper watering, maintaining good soil health, and providing sufficient sunlight will help keep the plant healthy and less vulnerable to diseases and pests.
