Englerastrum schlechteri T.C.E.Fr.
Englerastrum schlechteri is an African shrub that belongs to the family of Icacinaceae. This plant is endemic to Africa and is found in Cameroon, Congo DR, Gabon, and Central African Republic. It grows in the tropical rainforest and is often found in the undergrowth or along riverbanks.
Common Names
Englerastrum schlechteri is commonly known as "Mubasala" by the indigenous people of Congo DR and Gabon. It is also referred to as "Akoo" by the Bantu people of Cameroon.
Uses
The roots and bark of Englerastrum schlechteri are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, digestive disorders, and respiratory illnesses. The plant is also used as a source of timber for making furniture and household items.
General Appearance
Englerastrum schlechteri is a shrub that can grow up to 4 meters in height. Its bark is grey-brown and rough. The plant's leaves are alternate, simple, and glossy with a leathery texture. The leaves are oblong or elliptical, measuring 10-20 cm long and 5-8 cm wide. The plant produces small greenish-white flowers that are arranged in clusters. The fruit of Englerastrum schlechteri is a purple-black drupe that contains one seed.
Growth conditions of Englerastrum schlechteri T.C.E.Fr.
Englerastrum schlechteri T.C.E.Fr. is a plant species that grows well under specific conditions.
Light requirements
This plant requires bright, indirect light. It can tolerate direct sunlight for a few hours every day, but too much direct light can cause leaf scorching.
Temperature requirements
The plant thrives in warm temperatures of 25-35°C. Temperatures below 15°C can slow down its growth, and temperatures below 10°C can cause damage or death.
Soil requirements
The plant requires well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. It prefers soil enriched with organic matter and can grow well in sandy or loamy soil types.
Englerastrum schlechteri T.C.E.Fr. requires consistent watering to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. It responds well to gentle fertilization and benefits from occasional pruning to promote growth and maintain its shape.
Cultivation methods for Englerastrum schlechteri T.C.E.Fr.
The Englerastrum schlechteri T.C.E.Fr plant is native to the tropical region of Africa and can be cultivated outdoors in frost-free areas or indoors in containers. The plant grows best in a warm and humid environment with well-draining soil. The plant prefers partial shade and should be protected from direct sunlight, especially during the afternoon.
The plant can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings, or division of the root ball. Seeds should be planted in a well-draining soil mix with a small amount of sand. The stem cuttings should be allowed to root in a water-filled container before planting. The division of the root ball should be done during the early spring season.
Watering needs for Englerastrum schlechteri T.C.E.Fr.
The Englerastrum schlechteri T.C.E.Fr plant prefers regular watering during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. It is essential to allow the top layer of soil to dry out before watering again to prevent waterlogging and root rot. During the winter months, the plant should be watered less frequently.
The plant also benefits from occasional misting to increase humidity levels and prevent the leaves from drying out.
Fertilization of Englerastrum schlechteri T.C.E.Fr.
The Englerastrum schlechteri T.C.E.Fr plant requires regular feeding during the growing season to ensure healthy growth. A balanced fertilizer with equal proportions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is appropriate. Fertilizers with high nitrogen content should be avoided as they can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flower production.
The plant should be fertilized every four to six weeks during the growing season with a water-soluble fertilizer. Slow-release fertilizers can also be added to the soil during the early spring season to provide long-term and sustained feeding.
Pruning of Englerastrum schlechteri T.C.E.Fr.
The Englerastrum schlechteri T.C.E.Fr plant benefits from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. The plant should be pruned in the early spring season before the growing season begins. Dead or damaged branches should be removed, and overcrowded branches should be trimmed to promote better air circulation.
The plant can be pruned lightly after flowering to promote bushy growth and increase flower production in subsequent seasons.
Propagation of Englerastrum schlechteri T.C.E.Fr.
Englerastrum schlechteri is a rare shrub endemic to the Eastern Arc Mountains of Tanzania. The plant is a member of the Rubiaceae family, and it produces beautiful pink flowers that attract pollinators. Propagation of Englerastrum schlechteri can be accomplished through various methods.
Propagation by Seeds
The easiest way to propagate Englerastrum schlechteri is through seeds. Collect seeds from mature fruits that have ripened and turned brown. Remove the seeds from the fruit and air-dry them for a few days. Once the seeds have dried, sow them in a well-draining soil mix. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place the pot in a warm and bright location, but not in direct sunlight. The seeds will germinate in about 2-3 weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Englerastrum schlechteri can also be propagated from cuttings. Take stem cuttings from a healthy plant, with each cutting being about 6 inches long. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder. Clear a small area of soil in a pot and insert the cutting in the soil, ensuring that at least one node is buried. Water the soil and cover the pot with a plastic bag or dome to create a humid environment. Place the pot in a warm and bright location, but not in direct sunlight. The cutting should root in about 4-6 weeks.
Propagation by Layering
Propagation by layering is another option for Englerastrum schlechteri. In this method, choose a healthy and flexible stem from the parent plant. Gently wound the stem and cover the wound with rooting hormone powder. Bury the wounded area in the soil, ensuring that it is still attached to the parent plant. Water the soil and keep it moist. After a few weeks, roots will develop from the buried area. Cut the stem below the rooted area and gently transplant the new plant to its own container.
Disease and Pest Management for Englerastrum schlechteri T.C.E.Fr.
Englerastrum schlechteri T.C.E.Fr. is a tropical plant that is generally disease-resistant. However, if improperly cultivated or exposed to unfavorable conditions, it can become susceptible to various diseases and pests.
Common Diseases
One of the most prevalent diseases to affect Englerastrum schlechteri T.C.E.Fr. is leaf spot caused by the fungus Cercospora sp. This disease manifests as brown, water-soaked spots on the plant's leaves, which can then spread throughout the foliage. Leaf spot can be controlled through proper plant sanitation, such as removing infected leaves or using a fungicide.
Another common disease that plagues Englerastrum schlechteri T.C.E.Fr. is root rot caused by the fungus Phytophthora sp. The symptoms of root rot include yellowing of the foliage and wilting of the plant. Root rot can be prevented by avoiding over-watering, providing adequate drainage, and using soil with good aeration and structure to facilitate root growth.
Common Pests
The most frequent pests that affect Englerastrum schlechteri T.C.E.Fr. are mealybugs, which are small, white, cottony insects that cluster at the joints of the plant's leaves and stems. These pests can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil, which disrupts their feeding and breeding habits.
The plant can also be targeted by spider mites, which are minute arachnids that appear on the underside of the plant's leaves and cause yellow discoloration. Spider mites thrive in dry conditions and can be prevented by maintaining adequate humidity levels around the plant, and by using insecticidal sprays or predatory mites to control them.
To manage all of these diseases and pests, it's essential to maintain proper cultural practices, such as providing optimal growing conditions, keeping the foliage clean and free of debris, and monitoring the plant regularly for signs of infestation.
