Overview: Craterispermum Laurinum
Craterispermum laurinum is an evergreen tree that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is commonly referred to as 'Kachalla' in the Hausa language and is found in the African countries Nigeria, Ghana, and Cameroon. Craterispermum laurinum has different uses, such as herbal medicine, for religious and ritualistic ceremonies, and as a plant extract for scientific research.
Appearance
Craterispermum laurinum is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 10 meters tall. It has glossy leaves that are oval-shaped and can grow up to 10 centimeters long. The plant has a reddish-brown bark and branches that are brown, green, or grey. The tree also produces small, fragrant flowers that are yellowish-white in color and have a tubular shape.
Uses
Craterispermum laurinum is used for medicinal purposes such as treating respiratory infections, malaria, and fever. The plant contains alkaloids, anthraquinones, and flavonoids that have antibacterial and antifungal properties. The roots, leaves, and stem bark of the tree are used to make herbal medicines that have been used for generations in West Africa.
Kachalla leaves and stems are also used in the preparation of religious and ritualistic ceremonies by some Nigerian indigenous communities. It is believed to have spiritual and metaphysical properties that can drive away evil spirits and negative energy.
Craterispermum laurinum also has potential use in scientific research. The plant contains an active ingredient called ursolic acid that has reported antidiabetic, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Light Requirements
The Craterispermum laurinum plant requires partial to full shade to grow effectively, as it is naturally adapted to forest canopies. Exposing the plant to direct sunlight may cause its leaves to yellow and wilt. Therefore, it is essential to grow this plant in an area with filtered or indirect sunlight. This condition can be achieved either by placing it under a shade cloth or by planting it under the canopy of taller trees.
Temperature Requirements
The Craterispermum laurinum plant thrives well in tropical and subtropical climates with an average temperature range of 25-30°C. At temperatures above 35°C, the plant may experience some stress and may require additional watering. The minimum temperature required for the plant to survive is 15°C. Therefore, it is essential to avoid extremely hot and cold temperature conditions that can harm its growth and development.
Soil Requirements
The Craterispermum laurinum plant prefers well-draining soils rich in organic matter. The optimal soil pH range for this plant is slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.0). The soil must be infused with organic matter to improve its water retention, nutrient holding capacity, and to enhance root growth. The plant is susceptible to root rot; thus, it is essential to avoid water-logged soils. Sandy loam soil that drains well is ideal for growing this plant. A top dressing of organic matter should be done periodically to replenish the soil's nutrients and maintain good soil structure.
Cultivation
Craterispermum laurinum auct. is a shade-loving plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. It prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The plant thrives best in a warm and humid environment, ideally with temperatures between 20°C to 30°C.
Watering Needs
Since Craterispermum laurinum auct. prefers a humid environment, it requires regular watering. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. It is advisable to water the plant twice a week during the warmer months and once a week during colder months. Always allow the soil to dry out partially before the next watering.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth and development of Craterispermum laurinum auct., it is recommended to fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season, which is usually spring and summer. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can cause damage to the roots.
Pruning
Craterispermum laurinum auct. is a slow-growing plant that requires minimal pruning. It is advisable to remove any old, damaged or diseased leaves to promote healthy growth. Also, remove any overlapping or crossing branches to encourage an open and balanced canopy. Pruning can be carried out throughout the year, but the best times are in spring and after blooming.
Propagation of Craterispermum laurinum
Craterispermum laurinum auct. can be propagated through different methods, including seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Craterispermum laurinum can be collected from the parent plant once they are fully ripe and have turned brown. The collected seeds should be sown immediately in a seed tray or a pot containing a well-draining soil mix with good moisture-retentive capacity. The tray or pot should be kept in a warm and humid place, with a temperature range of 20-25°C and a relative humidity of around 70% to 80%. The seedlings should emerge in a few weeks, and once they have developed two to three leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the field.
Vegetative Propagation
Craterispermum laurinum can also be propagated by vegetative means, including stem cuttings and layering.
Stem cuttings should be taken from the parent plant during the growing season. The cutting should have at least two nodes and should be around 10-15 cm in length. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before being inserted into a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist, and the cutting should be placed in a warm and humid environment. After a few weeks, roots should begin to develop, and the cutting can be transplanted.
Layering involves bending a low-growing branch of the parent plant and securing it to the ground. A small trench is dug where the branch touches the soil, and the branch is covered with soil, leaving the tip exposed. Roots will develop from the buried portion, and once they are established, the new plant can be separated from the parent plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Craterispermum laurinum
Craterispermum laurinum is a plant species that is susceptible to a number of diseases and pests. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Leaf Spot - This is a fungal disease that causes small spots on the leaves. The spots may have a yellow ring around them and may merge together to form larger spots. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant parts and spray the plant with a fungicide.
Anthracnose - This is also a fungal disease that causes dark lesions on the leaves, stems, and fruit. To manage anthracnose, practice good sanitation by removing infected plant parts and debris from the area. Also, spray the plant with a fungicide.
Powdery Mildew - This is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage powdery mildew, remove and destroy infected plant parts and spray the plant with a fungicide.
Pests
Mealybugs - These tiny, white, cottony insects suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage mealybugs, remove them by hand if possible and spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Aphids - These are small, soft-bodied insects that also suck the sap from the plant. They are usually found on the undersides of the leaves. To manage aphids, remove them by hand if possible and spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider Mites - These are tiny, spider-like insects that suck the sap from the leaves and cause the leaves to become stippled and discolored. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a forceful stream of water or with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By taking proactive measures, you can help prevent and manage diseases and pests to keep your Craterispermum laurinum plant healthy and thriving.
