Overview:
Craterispermum orientale K.Schum. is a rare and unique plant species found in Africa and Madagascar. It belongs to the family Rubiaceae, which is the fourth largest family of flowering plants and includes a wide range of plants such as coffee and quinine. Craterispermum orientale is popularly known as Kudu Lily, Eastern Craterispermum, or Red-Crowned Craterispermum.
Appearance:
Craterispermum orientale is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 5 meters tall. The bark is light brown, and the leaves are simple, opposite, and elliptical in shape with pointed tips. The flowers are small and bell-shaped, with red or greenish-yellow petals.
Habitat:
Craterispermum orientale is native to Africa and Madagascar and found in tropical rainforests and savannas. It prefers to grow in well-drained soils with high organic matter, although it can tolerate some level of drought and light frost.
Uses:
Craterispermum orientale is not widely used for medicinal purposes, although some African tribes use the bark, roots, and leaves of the plant to treat various ailments. However, the plant has significant conservation value. It serves as a food source for various animals, including elephants, and provides a shelter for several bird species. In addition, Craterispermum orientale has ornamental value and planted in gardens for aesthetic purposes.
Light Requirements
Craterispermum orientale K.Schum. typically grows well in partial shade to full shade conditions. Direct sunlight can be harmful to the plant and may cause leaf burn. Therefore, it is recommended to grow the plant under trees or in a shaded area. The optimal amount of light required for its growth is about 50% to 60% shade cover.
Temperature Requirements
The preferred temperature range for the growth of Craterispermum orientale K.Schum. is 17°C to 25°C. The plant is native to tropical regions, so it requires a warm and humid environment to thrive. The temperature should not drop below 10°C as it may cause damage to the plant. It is also important to avoid sudden temperature changes as they can stress the plant.
Soil Requirements
Craterispermum orientale K.Schum. prefers well-draining soils with high organic matter content. The pH range of the soil should be between 5 and 6.5 for optimal growth. Adding peat moss or compost to the soil prior to planting can be beneficial. The plant requires consistent moisture, but waterlogging should be avoided as it can cause root rot. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and control the temperature of the soil.
Cultivation methods
Craterispermum orientale K.Schum., commonly known as East African Coffee, is a small shrub that is easy to cultivate. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors and requires minimal attention, making it an ideal houseplant for beginners. The plant grows well in well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5, and it needs to be grown in partial shade to full sun.
Watering needs
When it comes to watering, Craterispermum orientale K.Schum. prefers to be kept consistently moist. However, the plant cannot tolerate overwatering, which can lead to root rot. The frequency of watering will depend on the environment and the type of soil being used. Generally speaking, the plant should be watered when the top layer of soil dries out.
Fertilization
In terms of fertilization, the plant should be fed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. It is advisable to reduce the frequency during winter when the plant grows more slowly. It is essential to avoid over-fertilization, as this can cause fertilizer burn or damage to the plant's roots.
Pruning
Craterispermum orientale K.Schum. requires minimal pruning since it grows slowly and has a naturally compact form. However, if the plant becomes leggy or outgrows its space, it can be pruned back in the spring or early summer. Pruning will help to encourage denser growth and prevent the plant from becoming too tall. To prune the plant, use a clean and sharp pair of pruning shears, and make clean cuts just above a leaf node.
Propagation of Craterispermum orientale K.Schum.
There are several methods of propagating Craterispermum orientale K.Schum., including:
Seed propagation
The most common method of propagation is through seeds. The seeds are collected from the berries that develop on the plant. After the seeds are extracted, they need to be cleaned and soaked in water for 24 hours. This helps to soften the seed coat and increase the chances of germination. Then, the seeds can be sown in a seed bed or containers filled with well-draining soil. Seed propagation can be done throughout the year but is most successful during the rainy season.
Cuttings propagation
Propagation by cuttings is another option, but it is less commonly used. Softwood cuttings taken from the apical or lateral shoots of the plant can be used, and they should be about 10cm long. After removing the lower leaves, the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept in a warm and humid place until new growth appears.
Air-layering propagation
Air-layering is also possible but it requires a little more skill and patience. It involves wounding a stem and wrapping it with moist sphagnum moss covered in plastic film. The wound will produce new roots, and the stem can be cut off and transplanted once the roots have established. Air-layering is best done during the rainy season or when the plant is actively growing.
Overall, Craterispermum orientale K.Schum. is a relatively easy plant to propagate, and each method has its advantages. Regardless of the method chosen, it is important to ensure that the new plants receive adequate moisture and light as they establish their root systems.
Disease and Pest Management for Craterispermum orientale K.Schum. Plant
Craterispermum orientale K.Schum., commonly known as the Oriental crater seed, is a tropical plant native to Africa. This plant is highly valued for its medicinal and economic benefits. However, the plant is susceptible to various diseases and pest infestations.
Common diseases of Craterispermum orientale K.Schum. Plant
Leaf spot: This is a common fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant, causing brown spots on them. To manage this disease, it's advisable to practice crop rotation and avoid overcrowding the plants. Also, remove and destroy infected leaves and apply a fungicide spray.
Anthracnose: This is another fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and fruits of the plant. Infected plant parts exhibit circular, sunken lesions. To manage it, practice good field hygiene, and ensure proper sun and airflow by pruning the affected parts. Apply a fungicide spray to protect the healthy parts.
Root rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to become dark, soft, and mushy. To manage this disease, plant the Craterispermum orientale K.Schum. in well-drained soil and avoid over-watering. Also, remove and destroy infected plants, and apply a fungicide spray.
Common pests of Craterispermum orientale K.Schum. Plant
Mealybugs: These are small, whitish, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant's tissues, causing chlorosis and distortion of plant parts. To manage them, prune and destroy infested parts, and apply an insecticidal soap spray.
Spider mites: These are tiny arachnids that spin webs on the plant's leaves, causing them to yellow and wither. To manage them, use a high-pressure water spray to wash off the mites and their webs. Also, apply a miticide spray.
Caterpillars: These are the larvae of moths and butterflies that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing ragged holes on them. To manage them, handpick and destroy the caterpillars, and apply a biological control agent.
In conclusion, to ensure a healthy and productive Craterispermum orientale K.Schum. plant, it's crucial to incorporate good cultural practices like proper sanitation, crop rotation, and pest scouting. Using plant protectants like fungicides and insecticides as necessary will also provide additional insurance for keeping the plant free of pests and disease.
