Origin
Craibia filipes Dunn var. macrantha Pellegr. is a plant species that belongs to the family Rubiaceae. It is native to Cameroon, a country located in West Africa.
Common Names
The plant has several common names depending on the region where it is grown. It is commonly known as “Ekouti” or “Ekutti” in Cameroon, which means “strength” in the local language. The plant is also known as "Hill Craibia" or "Macrantha Craibia".
Appearance
Craibia filipes Dunn var. macrantha Pellegr. is a small tree that grows up to 8 meters tall. The tree typically has a straight stem and a round canopy, with branches that grow nearly horizontally. The bark is grey in colour and has vertical fissures.
The leaves are dark green, glossy, and measure between 5 to 12 cm long. They are oblong-shaped and have pointed tips. The plant produces small, white flowers that grow in clusters at the tips of the branches. The flowers have a sweet scent and bloom from September to November.
The fruit of the plant is a small, hard, and woody capsule that contains numerous seeds. The capsule measures about 2 cm across and turns from green to brown when it reaches maturity.
Uses
The plant Craibia filipes Dunn var. macrantha Pellegr. has a variety of uses in traditional medicine. The bark and leaves of the plant are used to treat fever, malaria, and various gastrointestinal disorders. The leaves are also used to treat high blood pressure and respiratory infections.
The wood of the plant is very hard and durable, making it ideal for construction and furniture making. In addition, the plant is an important source of food for animals, especially monkeys, who feed on its leaves and fruits.
Craibia filipes Dunn var. macrantha Pellegr. is a beautiful and useful plant that has a significant cultural and economic importance in the region where it is grown.
Growth Conditions for Craibia filipes Dunn var. macrantha Pellegr.
Craibia filipes Dunn var. macrantha Pellegr. is a tropical plant that requires specific growth conditions to thrive. Here are some details on the ideal conditions for this plant:
Light Requirements
The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight is too harsh, and it can damage the leaves of the plant. If the plant is placed in a location with insufficient light, it will not grow well.
Temperature Needs
The plant needs to be in a warm environment. It cannot tolerate temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important to keep the plant away from air conditioning or heating vents that produce sudden changes in temperature.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil is a must for Craibia filipes Dunn var. macrantha Pellegr. The plant cannot withstand standing water, so it is essential to plant it in a pot with drainage holes. The pH level of the soil should be neutral to slightly acidic (6.0 – 7.0). A good option for this plant is a mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.
It is essential to water this plant regularly and keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Fertilization can be done once a month with a balanced fertilizer. Pruning is recommended occasionally to shape the plant and promote healthy growth.
Overall, Craibia filipes Dunn var. macrantha Pellegr. needs a warm, well-lit environment with well-draining soil to thrive and grow. It is a lovely plant to add to a collection and can be a great addition to an indoor garden.
Cultivation of Craibia filipes Dunn var. macrantha Pellegr.
Craibia filipes Dunn var. macrantha Pellegr. is a plant native to tropical regions, which can grow up to 6 meters tall and requires a warm environment with filtered light. It can be grown both as an indoor or outdoor plant in suitable conditions.
The plant thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. It is important to ensure that soil pH is between 6 and 7.5, which can be achieved by adding appropriate amendments to the soil.
Craibia filipes Dunn var. macrantha Pellegr. can be propagated from stem cuttings or seeds. When propagating from stem cuttings, it is best to use woody stems to ensure successful rooting. The cuttings should be around 6-8 inches long and should be planted in the soil after dipping in rooting hormone.
Watering Needs
Craibia filipes Dunn var. macrantha Pellegr. requires moderate watering. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be detrimental to the plant's health. It is important to allow the soil to dry out partially between watering.
During the growing season, it is recommended to water the plant once a week, while in the dormant season, the frequency can be reduced to once every two weeks. The watering frequency will differ depending on the environment and humidity levels.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular feeding during the growing season. The use of a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 is recommended. Fertilization should be reduced during the dormant season.
The plant can also benefit from organic fertilizers. Compost can be applied around the base of the plant or added to the soil during the planting process.
Pruning
Craibia filipes Dunn var. macrantha Pellegr. can benefit from regular pruning to promote bushy growth and air circulation. It is best to prune the plant during the dormant season.
Dead, damaged, or diseased wood should be removed promptly to prevent further spread. It is also important to remove any suckers or shoots arising from the base of the plant, as they can compete for nutrients and cause the plant to lose its shape.
When pruning, it is important to use sharp and sterile tools to prevent the spread of disease. All tools should be sanitized with rubbing alcohol before and after use.
Propagation of Craibia filipes Dunn var. macrantha Pellegr.
The propagation of Craibia filipes Dunn var. macrantha Pellegr. can be done through various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds:
The seeds of Craibia filipes Dunn var. macrantha Pellegr. are small and kidney-shaped. The seeds should be collected from mature fruits, which usually ripen in late summer. The collected seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place until the next growing season. The best time for sowing the seeds is from February to March, before the start of the rainy season. The seeds can be sown in trays filled with a well-draining soil mix. Cover the seeds lightly with the soil mixture, keeping them moist but not overly wet. Germination usually takes about 1 to 2 months.
Propagation by Cuttings:
The stem cuttings of Craibia filipes Dunn var. macrantha Pellegr. can be taken from mature and healthy plants. The cuttings should be taken during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Ideally, the cuttings should be around 10 cm in length with a few leaves attached to them. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone. Insert the cutting in a soil mixture that is well-draining and keep the soil moist but not overly wet. After 4-6 weeks, the cutting should develop roots. The newly rooted plant can be transplanted into its permanent location the following season.
Propagation by Division:
The division is another common method of propagation for Craibia filipes Dunn var. macrantha Pellegr. In this method, the mature plant is carefully dug up and divided into several smaller clumps. Each clump should have new shoots and a good root system. The divided plants can be replanted in their permanent locations in the spring. This method of propagation is best done every few years to maintain the plant's health and vigor.
Disease and Pest Management for Craibia filipes Dunn var. macrantha Pellegr.
Craibia filipes Dunn var. macrantha Pellegr is a hardy plant but is still susceptible to various diseases and pests that can hinder its growth and overall health. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that can appear as a white powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage this disease, ensure proper air circulation around the plant by avoiding overcrowding or planting in areas with poor ventilation. Also, remove and destroy infected plant parts to prevent the disease from spreading.
2. Leaf Spot: This disease usually appears as circular or irregular brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, ensure proper drainage and avoid overhead watering, which can cause the leaves to remain wet for extended periods, creating an ideal environment for the disease to thrive. Remove infected plant parts immediately and ensure proper sanitation to prevent the spread.
3. Root Rot: Root rot is a common disease caused by a soil-borne fungus that attacks the roots of the plant, leading to decay. Good soil drainage is essential in managing this disease, and ensure not to overwater the plant. Remove and destroy infected plant parts and soil to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck the sap from the plant and cause leaves to curl and stunt growth. Regularly inspect the plant for aphid infestations and remove them manually or use insecticidal soap to manage the infestation.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny spider-like pests that feed on the sap from the plant and leave behind tiny holes on the leaves. They thrive in hot and dry conditions. To manage spider mites, regularly mist the plant to increase humidity levels, remove infected plant parts, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to keep the mites in check.
3. Scale Insects: Scale insects are small oval-shaped pests that attach themselves to the plant's stems and leaves, feeding on the sap, and causing the plant to weaken. To manage scale insects, use a soft-bristled brush or cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove them manually, or apply insecticidal soap.
Proper plant care practices, including regular inspection for diseases and pests, can help maintain the plant's overall health and ensure its longevity.
