Overview
Coffea jasminoides, also known as Coffea arabica var. kinkelibae or Coffea kinkelibae, is a species of flowering plant in the Rubiaceae family. It is a small tree that is native to tropical west and central Africa.
General Appearance
Coffea jasminoides has dark green, glossy leaves that are ovate-lanceolate in shape and measure approximately 5-10 cm long. The plant produces fragrant, white flowers that resemble jasmine flowers, which can be seen blooming throughout the year. The fruit of the plant is a red to dark purple berry that contains two seeds, which are used to produce coffee.
Common Names
The plant is known by a variety of common names, including Arabian coffee, Congo coffee, decorative coffee, Kinkeliba coffee, and pseudocoffea.
Uses
The seeds of Coffea jasminoides are used to produce coffee, although the plant is not commonly grown or harvested for this purpose. In traditional African medicine, the plant is used as a medicinal herb to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive issues, fever, and hypertension. The plant is also used as a decorative plant in gardens and landscaping.
Light Requirements
Coffea jasminoides Welw. ex Hiern thrives in a bright, indirect light. It prefers to be placed near an east-facing window, where it can receive the gentle morning sun. Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves, so it is essential to provide it with ample shading during the harsh afternoon sun.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers a warm and humid environment. The ideal temperature range for Coffea jasminoides Welw. ex Hiern is between 60°F to 75°F (16°C to 24°C). It does not tolerate sudden temperature changes, so avoid placing it near air-conditioning vents or drafty windows. It can also suffer from cold injury if exposed to temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Soil Requirements
Good soil is necessary for the optimal growth and health of Coffea jasminoides Welw. ex Hiern. The recommended potting soil mix for this plant is equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and coarse sand. It requires a well-draining soil that can retain moisture without becoming soggy. A pH range of 5.5 to 6.5 is ideal for this plant.
Cultivation methods
Coffea jasminoides Welw. ex Hiern, commonly known as Arabian coffee, is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures and bright, indirect sunlight. It prefers a slightly acidic soil pH between 6.0 and 6.5. It can be grown indoors or outdoors in a container with proper drainage holes.
Watering needs
Consistent and adequate watering is important for the growth of Coffea jasminoides Welw. ex Hiern. The soil should remain moist but not waterlogged, so it is recommended to water the plant once a week or whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. It is important to avoid over-watering as it can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization
To encourage healthy growth and optimal fruit production, Coffea jasminoides Welw. ex Hiern requires regular fertilization. Using a balanced water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing period is recommended. In the winter months, reduce fertilization to every two months.
Pruning
Coffea jasminoides Welw. ex Hiern requires regular pruning to ensure proper growth and maintain its shape. Pruning in the spring is recommended, just before new growth begins. Pinching the growing tips of the plant will encourage bushier growth. Removing dead or yellowing leaves or branches is also recommended to prevent insect and disease problems.
Propagation of Coffea jasminoides Welw. ex Hiern
Coffea jasminoides Welw. ex Hiern, also known as Arabian coffee, is a small evergreen shrub that is native to Africa and Yemen. It is a popular plant in gardens due to its ornamental value and the sweet fragrance of its flowers. There are several methods to propagate Coffea jasminoides, including:
Seed Propagation
One of the most popular methods of propagating Coffea jasminoides is through seeds. The seeds should be collected when the fruits are ripe and then soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the outer shell. The seedlings should then be started in a well-draining soil mix. The seedlings should be kept moist and warm until they have developed their first set of true leaves.
Stem Cuttings Propagation
Coffea jasminoides can also be propagated using stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from healthy parent plants and planted in a well-draining soil mix. It is essential to use rooting hormone powder to increase the chances of success for the propagation. The cuttings should be kept moist and warm, and it will take several weeks before they start to form roots and new foliage appear.
Air Layer Propagation
Air layering is another effective method of propagating Coffea jasminoides. In this method, a section of the stem of the parent plant is wrapped in damp sphagnum moss and then covered in plastic to encourage the growth of new roots. Once these roots have developed, the stem section can be cut and planted in a well-draining soil mix.
Division Propagation
Division propagation method is not a common way to propagate Coffea jasminoides as the plant does not produce runners or offsets. But if the plant has developed several stems from the base, they can be divided into sections and potted individually. Each section should have roots and well-developed foliage to increase the chances of survival.
Disease and Pest Management for Coffea jasminoides Welw. ex Hiern
Coffea jasminoides Welw. ex Hiern, commonly known as Arabian jasmine coffee or Cape jasmine coffee, is a tropical plant that is vulnerable to several diseases and pests. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Bacterial Blight: This disease shows the presence of bacterial ooze on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It is contagious and can spread easily via water, wind, or pruning tools. The best method of management is to prune off the affected parts using sterilized tools and creating proper ventilation for the plant to reduce moisture.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is characterized by localized dead areas on the leaves. It is caused by a fungus which enters the plant through wounds or poor drainage. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove the affected leaves and spraying of fungicides such as copper oxychloride or mancozeb.
Pests
Whiteflies: These small insects usually infest the undersides of the leaves of the plant and feed on the sap of the plant. This causes the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage whiteflies, it is recommended to use sticky traps, spraying with neem oil, or insecticides containing pyrethroids.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs produce a cottony wax substance on the plant surface, usually found on the leaf axils and stem joints. They feed on the sap and cause stunting, yellowing, and wilting of leaves and stems. Managing mealybugs involves the use of insecticidal soaps or solutions of water and rubbing alcohol. The affected plants should be isolated from the healthy plants to avoid spreading.
Mites: Mites mainly infest the underside of the Coffea jasminoides leaves, leaving them stippled with yellow. Managing mites mainly involves hosing off the foliage and using insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.
Regular inspection of the Coffea jasminoides plant is vital to identify any signs of diseases or pests. Always use organic and environmentally friendly agents to manage pests and diseases as the use of harmful chemical pesticides may lead to lasting damage to the plant and eco-system.
