Overview of Coffea Sessiliflora
Coffea sessiliflora auct. is a species of coffee plant that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is commonly known as the Hill Climbing Coffee. The plant is indigenous to East Africa and primarily grows in Tanzania and Kenya at altitudes of 1000-1500m above sea level.
General Appearance
The Coffea sessiliflora plant is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 4m tall. The stem is woody and branched, and the leaves are dark green, leathery, and glossy. The plant produces small white flowers that have a sweet scent and are arranged in clusters at the base of the leaves. The fruits are small, cherry-like berries that mature to a bright red color when ripe.
Common Uses
The Coffea sessiliflora plant is cultivated primarily for its beans, which are roasted and used to make coffee. The beans have a unique floral aroma and mild flavor, making it a favored ingredient in specialty blends. In rural areas, the plant's leaves, bark and roots are used to make traditional remedies for a variety of ailments from coughs, headaches and fever to dysentery and snakebites.
The Hill Climbing Coffee variety is highly sought after by gardeners due to its ability to grow on steep, rocky slopes and thrive in high altitude conditions. The plant's dense foliage and pretty white flowers give it ornamental value, making it an excellent addition to gardens and landscapes.
Light and Temperature Requirements
Coffea sessiliflora typically grows in tropical rainforests, where it thrives in warm and humid conditions. It requires abundant sunlight to grow well, but can also tolerate partial shade. The ideal temperature range for Coffea sessiliflora is between 20-25°C (68-77°F), but it can also tolerate temperatures as low as 15°C (59°F) and as high as 35°C (95°F).
Soil Requirements
Coffea sessiliflora prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic, ideally between 4.5-6.5. Coffea sessiliflora can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy loam to clay loam, as long as the soil is not compacted, which can hinder root growth and moisture absorption.
Water Requirements
Coffea sessiliflora requires consistent moisture to grow well, but should not be overwatered, as this can lead to root rot. The plant should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Rainwater or distilled water is preferable, as tap water can contain high levels of minerals.
Cultivation Methods
Coffea sessiliflora is a delicate plant that requires a specific set of environmental conditions to thrive. It is recommended to grow Coffea sessiliflora in well-draining soil, with moderate to high humidity levels. The plant requires a minimum temperature of approximately 60°F and a maximum temperature of 75°F. It should also be positioned in a place with plenty of sunlight exposure.
Watering Needs
Coffea sessiliflora requires frequent watering to ensure that the soil remains consistently moist. It is advised to water your plant every 2-3 days, taking care not to overwater it, as this can lead to root rot. This plant is sensitive to chlorine found in water, so filtered or distilled water is recommended.
Fertilization
Coffea sessiliflora requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and development. Fertilize your plant once every two weeks, preferably with a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer. It is essential to apply the fertilizer when the soil is moist, as this helps prevent root burning.
Pruning
Pruning Coffea sessiliflora involves cutting off the dead and damaged leaves and stems to maintain the vibrancy and health of the plant. It is advisable to wait until after the flowering period to prune the plant. It is also recommended to use sterilized pruning shears to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Coffea sessiliflora auct.
Coffea sessiliflora auct., also known as Wild Coffee or Lowland Coffee, can be propagated through seeds or vegetative cuttings.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Coffea sessiliflora auct. can be collected from the ripe berries and sown directly into a potting mixture containing equal parts of soil and sand. Seeds should be planted one inch deep and the potting mixture must be kept moist. It takes around two to three months for the seeds to germinate. Once the seedlings have two or three leaves, they can be transplanted into individual containers.
Seed propagation can be a slow process and it can take several years for the plant to reach maturity and bear fruit.
Vegetative Propagation
Coffea sessiliflora auct. can also be propagated through vegetative cuttings. Shoots or stems that are around 15 cm long and have at least two nodes can be used for propagation. The cuttings should be taken from a healthy and disease-free plant.
The cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in a potting mixture containing equal parts of soil and sand. The cuttings should be watered regularly and kept in a light shade. Rooting occurs in around two to three months. Once rooted, the cuttings can be transplanted into individual containers.
Vegetative propagation is a faster method of propagation as the plant can reach maturity in around three to four years and bear fruits.
Disease and Pest Management for Coffea Sessiliflora Auct.
Coffea sessiliflora auct. is a coffee species native to West and Central Africa. As with other coffee plants, it is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests that can damage or destroy the plant. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect Coffea sessiliflora and some ways to manage them:
Diseases
Coffee Leaf Rust: This fungal disease causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves, which will eventually fall off, making it difficult for the plant to carry out photosynthesis. One way to manage this disease is to remove infected leaves and destroy them. Fungicides can also be used to treat Coffee Leaf Rust.
Coffee Berry Disease: This disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the coffee berries, causing them to rot and fall off the plant. Pruning infected branches and removing fallen berries can help prevent the disease from spreading. However, the most effective way to manage this disease is to plant varieties that are resistant to Coffee Berry Disease.
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that can ultimately kill the plant. Overwatering can cause this disease to thrive, so be sure to water your Coffea sessiliflora in moderation. Fungicides can be used to treat root rot, but prevention is the best strategy.
Pests
Coffee Borer Beetle: These beetles bore into coffee plants, causing damage to the stem and branches. Infected branches should be pruned and destroyed. Insecticides can also be used to control the Coffee Borer Beetle population.
Coffee White Stem Borer: Similar to the Coffee Borer Beetle, this pest lays eggs on the plant, which later hatch and bore into the stem. One way to manage this pest is to wrap the stem in a sticky band to prevent the adult beetles from laying their eggs. Pruning infected branches and using insecticides can also help control the population.
Aphids: Aphids are common pests that suck the sap from Coffea sessiliflora, causing damage to the leaves and stems. Natural predators, such as ladybugs, can be introduced to the garden to control the Aphid population. Insecticidal soap can also be used to control these pests.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your Coffea sessiliflora stays healthy and productive for years to come.
