Overview
Cola brevipes K.Schum. var. brevipes is a plant species that belongs to the family Malvaceae. It is native to Central Africa and is commonly found in the Congo Basin, Gabon, and Cameroon.
Common Names
The common names of this plant include Breviped Cola, Mkwaju, and Madoleyi.
General Appearance
The Breviped Cola is a tall evergreen tree that can grow up to 30 meters in height. Its young bark is smooth, gray-brown, and fissured when older. The leaves are alternate, simple, and broadly ovate with a pointed apex. They are dark green and glossy, reaching a length of 15 cm and a width of 7 cm. The flowers of this plant are small, unisexual, and yellowish-green. The fruit is a capsule that contains six to eight seeds.
Uses
Several groups of people in Central Africa consume the seeds and nut-like cotyledons of this plant as a stimulant and for their supposed medicinal properties. They also use the leaves as a spice and to make tea. The seeds are roasted and crushed in the preparation of a type of coffee, known as "cola coffee." The bark and leaves are used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments such as diarrhea, fever, and stomach problems.
Light Requirements
Cola brevipes K.Schum. var. brevipes requires bright, indirect sunlight to grow properly. Too much direct sunlight can harm the plant and cause the leaves to wilt and turn yellow.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures ranging between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures below 60 degrees can cause damage to the leaves, and temperatures above 75 degrees can cause the plant to wilt and dry out.
Soil Requirements
Cola brevipes K.Schum. var. brevipes thrives in well-draining and nutrient-rich soil. A soil mix containing peat, vermiculite, and perlite can provide the optimal conditions for the plant to grow. The soil should also be kept moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot.
Fertilization Requirements
The plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Over-fertilization can harm the plant, so it is important to follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging carefully.
Water Requirements
The plant requires regular watering, but the frequency depends on the humidity and temperature of the environment. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as this can cause root rot. It is recommended to wait until the top layer of soil has dried out before watering again.
Cultivation Methods
Cola brevipes K.Schum. var. brevipes is a small tree that is native to tropical Africa. The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 20°C and 25°C. It can tolerate full sun but grows best under partial shade. To cultivate this plant, select well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH level of the soil should be in the range of 5.5 to 6.5. After planting, ensure that the soil around the plant is kept moist but avoid waterlogging.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Cola brevipes K.Schum. var. brevipes depend on the climate and season. During the dry season, water the plant frequently by supplying enough water that reaches the depth of the roots. In the wet season, water less frequently, as the plant does not require too much water. Ensure there is proper water drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can stunt plant growth.
Fertilization
Fertilization is necessary for the healthy growth of Cola brevipes K.Schum. var. brevipes. Apply a balanced fertilizer that contains a well-balanced amount of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. The application should be done in the first year after planting, during the growing period. In the second year after planting, apply the fertilizer at the onset of the rainy season to continue stimulating the plant's growth.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to shape the form of Cola brevipes K.Schum. var. brevipes. The pruning should start in the early stages of growth and continue into the tree's mature life. The primary aim is to remove unhealthy and dead branches. The branches that are close to the ground should also be removed to give allowance for additional growth. Pruning increases the plant's fruit yield and good circulation of air in and around the tree branches.
Propagation of Cola brevipes K.Schum. var. brevipes
Cola brevipes K.Schum. var. brevipes is a tropical plant that belongs to family Malvaceae. Propagation of this plant can be achieved through the following methods:
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the easiest and most common method of propagating Cola brevipes K.Schum. var. brevipes. Ripe fruits should be collected and the pulp should be removed, leaving the seeds to dry in a cool and shaded area for a few days. The seeds should then be planted in a well-drained soil mix, kept moist but not waterlogged, and placed in a warm and bright area. Germination of the seeds should occur within a few weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
Cola brevipes K.Schum. var. brevipes can also be propagated through cuttings, although this method is less common. Select healthy stem cuttings with a diameter of at least 2 cm and a length of 10 to 20 cm. Remove the leaves from the bottom and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and keep it moist. Place the cutting in a warm, bright area and wait for root growth before transplanting it to a larger pot or to the field.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another method that can be used to propagate Cola brevipes K.Schum. var. brevipes. Select a young stem and remove a ring of bark at a point where the stem is actively growing. Cover the wound with moist sphagnum moss and wrap it in plastic wrap to retain moisture. After a few weeks, roots should appear and the stem can be cut off and planted in a well-draining soil mix.
Disease and Pest Management of Cola brevipes K.Schum. var. brevipes
Cola brevipes K.Schum. var. brevipes is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, like any other plant, it is still vulnerable and can be affected by several fungal and bacterial diseases and pest infestations.
Common diseases of Cola brevipes K.Schum. var. brevipes
Leaf spot disease is one of the most common diseases affecting Cola brevipes K.Schum. var. brevipes. It is caused by a fungus and is characterized by the appearance of brown spots on the leaves. This disease can be managed by practicing good sanitation measures, such as removing affected leaves and debris from the plant and keeping the area around the plant clean and free from weeds.
Anthracnose is another fungal disease that can affect Cola brevipes K.Schum. var. brevipes. It is characterized by the presence of small, sunken lesions on the leaves and stems. This disease can be prevented by avoiding overhead irrigation, removing infected plant debris, and applying fungicides.
Common pests of Cola brevipes K.Schum. var. brevipes
Mealybugs and scale insects are common pests that can infest Cola brevipes K.Schum. var. brevipes. They feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of leaves. They can be managed by physically removing them from the plant or by using insecticidal soap or horticultural oils.
Aphids are another insect that can infest Cola brevipes K.Schum. var. brevipes. They are small and typically green or black in color. They suck on the sap of the plant, causing leaf curling and yellowing. They can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or horticultural oils.
Spider mites are also common pests of Cola brevipes K.Schum. var. brevipes. They are tiny and can be identified by the presence of webbing on the undersides of leaves. They feed on the sap of the plant and can cause yellowing and wilting. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with water, insecticidal soap, or horticultural oils.
Overall, it is essential to monitor Cola brevipes K.Schum. var. brevipes for any signs of diseases or pest infestations regularly. Early detection and proper management can prevent the spread of diseases and reduce the damage caused by pests.
