Introduction
Cola flavescens Engl. var. hirsuta Pellegr. is a species of plant that belongs to the family Malvaceae, and it is endemic to Central and West Africa. This plant has a combination of unique properties, such as medicinal, nutritional, and cultural values, that makes it highly valuable to the indigenous people of Africa.
Common Names
The common names of Cola flavescens Engl. var. hirsuta Pellegr. differ amongst various African tribes. In Nigeria, it is known as 'Obi’, while the Songhai of Mali call it ‘Chankara’. In Cameroon, it is referred to as ‘Yallowh’ or ‘Yalouhou’. In Gabon, it is known as ‘Vivense’ or ‘Vibense,’ and the Bantu people of DR Congo call it ‘Mpolo.’
Appearance
Cola flavescens Engl. var. hirsuta Pellegr. is an evergreen tree with a rounded crown that grows up to 20 m high. It has an erect, branched, and strikingly hairy trunk that measures about 50 cm in diameter. The leaves have a leathery texture and are elliptic or oblong, measuring up to 12 cm in length and 5 cm in width. The flowers of this plant are bisexual, pale yellow, and axillary or terminal, and both the fruits and seeds are brown with a slightly bitter taste.
Uses
The seeds of Cola flavescens Engl. var. hirsuta Pellegr. are highly valued for their stimulating properties due to the high caffeine content, and they are commonly used in traditional medicine and cultural ceremonies in various parts of Africa. The plant is also used for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, and the bark has been reportedly used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and stomach ulcers. Additionally, the plant's seeds and leaves have been used to treat gonorrhea, coughs, asthma, and anxiety disorders, among others. The plant's wood is used for carving, firewood, and charcoal production.
In summary, Cola flavescens Engl. var. hirsuta Pellegr. is a species of plant that is found in Central and West Africa. The plant has various medicinal, nutritional, and cultural values and is highly valued by the indigenous people of Africa. Its unique properties, such as its stimulating effects and anti-inflammatory properties, make it a valuable resource in traditional medicine and cultural ceremonies.Light Requirements
The plant Cola flavescens Engl. var. hirsuta Pellegr. typically grows in bright direct light conditions but can also grow in partially shaded areas. It is recommended to place the plant near a south-facing window to ensure adequate light levels for proper growth. A lack of sufficient light can cause stunted growth or sparse foliage.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for the growth of Cola flavescens Engl. var. hirsuta Pellegr. is between 20-30°C (68-86°F). This tropical tree can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C (50°F) but may experience slowed growth. Temperatures above 35°C (95°F) can cause damage to the plant and may result in leaf scorching or burning.
Soil Requirements
Cola flavescens Engl. var. hirsuta Pellegr. grows best in well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5-6.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have good water retention capabilities. The plant prefers moist soil conditions, but overwatering can lead to root rot. The addition of peat moss or compost to the soil mix can improve water-holding capacity and nutrient availability to the plant.
Cultivation Methods
The Cola flavescens Engl. var. hirsuta Pellegr. plant requires a warm and humid environment, preferably with a temperature of 20-30°C and humidity of 75-80%. The plant requires well-drained soil with a pH of 6.5-7.5. The crop can be propagated through seeds or vegetative cuttings. The seeds should be planted in a well-prepared nursery bed and kept moist until germination, which typically takes 2-4 weeks.
Watering Needs
The Cola flavescens Engl. var. hirsuta Pellegr. plant requires frequent watering, especially during the dry season to prevent drying out. The plant should be watered twice a week, and the soil should be moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal for the plant. In areas with heavy rainfall, it is crucial to ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
The Cola flavescens Engl. var. hirsuta Pellegr. plant requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and development. A balanced NPK fertilizer should be applied every two months during the growing season. Organic manure such as compost or well-rotted animal manure can also be applied to the soil to improve soil fertility. However, care should be taken not to overfertilize as this can lead to salt buildup in the soil and damage the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for Cola flavescens Engl. var. hirsuta Pellegr. plant as it helps to control its growth and promote healthy branching. The best time to prune the plant is during the dormant season. Cut away dead, diseased, or damaged parts of the tree. Remove suckers that emerge from the main stem or roots as they can draw energy away from the plant. Ensure to use clean, sharp tools to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation Methods for Cola flavescens Engl. var. hirsuta Pellegr.
Cola flavescens Engl. var. hirsuta Pellegr., commonly referred to as bitter cola, is a plant species native to West and Central Africa. It is a dioecious (having separate male and female plants) and perennial tree that belongs to the family Malvaceae. The propagation of Cola flavescens can be achieved through various methods as follows:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Cola flavescens. The seeds can be collected from the wild or from a cultivated plant. The collected seeds should be washed and soaked in clean water for 24 hours to soften the hard seed coat. Germination can be done in a nursery or in polybags-filled with soil. It takes about two to three weeks for the seeds to germinate. The seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location after six months of growth.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings from mature Cola flavescens plants can also be used to propagate the plant. The cuttings should be taken from the lateral branches, and each cutting should be about 15-20 cm long with two to three buds. The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone to enhance root development. The cuttings can be planted in a suitable rooting medium and kept in a moist and shady area. Rooting takes approximately two to three months, after which the cuttings can be transplanted to their final location.
Air Layering
Air layering is another method of propagating Cola flavescens. This method involves making a cut on the plant's stem and covering it with rooting medium. After a few weeks, roots will develop from the cut area, and the stem can be separated from the mother plant and transplanted to a new location.
Grafting
Grafting is a less common method used to propagate Cola flavescens, mainly for selected varieties. This method involves joining a top of a selected plant or desired variety (scion) with a rooted plant (rootstock). Grafting is useful in propagating Cola flavescens with desirable traits like higher yield or resistance to diseases.
Disease and Pest Management for Cola flavescens Engl. var. hirsuta Pellegr.
Cola flavescens Engl. var. hirsuta Pellegr. is a plant that is susceptible to a variety of diseases and pests. Proper management of these problems is necessary to ensure the health and productivity of the plant. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes small, sunken spots to appear on leaves, fruits, and stems. Severe infections can cause the plant to lose its leaves and suffer from stunted growth. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy infected plant debris, practice crop rotation, and use fungicides.
Coffee leaf rust: This disease can cause severe defoliation and reduce the productivity of the plant. It is caused by a fungus that produces yellowish-orange spots on leaves. To manage coffee leaf rust, use resistant varieties, practice good sanitation, and use fungicides.
Root rot: This disease is caused by fungal pathogens that attack the roots of the plant. It can cause wilting, stunted growth, and yellowing of leaves. To manage root rot, practice good drainage, use resistant varieties, and avoid overwatering.
Pests
Coffee berry borer: This is a serious pest that damages the fruits of the plant. The pest is a small beetle that bores into the berry and lays its eggs. To manage coffee berry borer, use traps, maintain good sanitation, and use insecticides.
Mealybugs: These pests are small insects that are found in clusters on the leaves and stems of the plant. They suck the sap out of the plant, causing wilting and stunted growth. To manage mealybugs, use insecticides and practice good sanitation.
Mites: These pests are very tiny and are barely visible to the naked eye. They feed on the plant, which causes leaf discoloration and curling. To manage mites, use insecticidal soap or insecticides and practice good sanitation.
Overall, it is important to identify any problems with Cola flavescens Engl. var. hirsuta Pellegr. as soon as possible and take appropriate action to manage them. Implementing good management practices will help ensure the health and productivity of the plant.
