Origin
Englerina kapiriensis (Balle) Polhill & Wiens is a plant native to Zambia and named after the Kapiri River basin in northern Zambia where it was first discovered.
Common Names
Englerina kapiriensis is also known as Kapiri's tree, or more commonly, Kapiri's privet due to the resemblance of its leaves to that of the European privet (Ligustrum vulgare).
Uses
Englerina kapiriensis is used in traditional Zambian medicine to treat a wide range of ailments, including wounds, skin irritations, and respiratory infections. The bark is boiled to make a concoction which is used to bathe the affected area of the body.
General Appearance
Englerina kapiriensis is a fast-growing, evergreen tree that grows up to 12 meters tall. It has a relatively small, dense crown and its branches are greyish, pubescent, and heavily armed with thorns. The leaves are lanceolate, up to 7cm long and 2cm wide, and arranged opposite to each other. The flowers are short-stalked and whitish-yellow in color. The fruit is a drupe that is reddish-purple in color when ripe and contains a single seed.
Light Requirements
Englerina kapiriensis is an understory plant that thrives in partially shaded environments. It does not prefer direct sunlight as it may scorch the leaves. Therefore, it is best to plant it in environments with filtered or dappled light. It would be ideal to provide it with about 60-70% shade.
Temperature Requirements
Englerina kapiriensis is a plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can survive in temperatures as low as 10 degrees Celsius and as high as 35 degrees Celsius. The ideal temperature range for optimal growth is between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius.
Soil Requirements
Englerina kapiriensis prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soils, including sandy, loamy or clay soils. However, the soil should not be waterlogged as this may lead to root rot. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, between 5.5 and 7.0.
Cultivation methods for Englerina kapiriensis
Englerina kapiriensis can be grown in pots or directly in the ground. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant needs a warm and humid environment to thrive. Therefore, it is best to place it in a sheltered area that receives partial shade.
Watering needs for Englerina kapiriensis
Englerina kapiriensis requires regular watering during the growing season, but the soil should not be allowed to become waterlogged. As a rule of thumb, the soil should be kept lightly moist, and watering should be reduced during winter.
Fertilization of Englerina kapiriensis
Applying a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season can be helpful for engendering healthy growth. Follow the fertilizer's instructions carefully and avoid over-fertilizing as it may lead to the plant's death.
Pruning Englerina kapiriensis
While Englerina kapiriensis does not require pruning, pinching back the growing tips can encourage bushier growth and a more compact shape. Cut back any dead or damaged growth as necessary to keep the plant healthy and attractive.
Propagation Method for Englerina kapiriensis
Englerina kapiriensis (Balle) Polhill & Wiens is a perennial herb with underground storage organs which are utilized for propagation. In order to propagate this plant, one has to acquire its plant material, which includes the underground storage organs or the seeds.
Propagation through Division of Underground Storage Organs
The underground storage organs of Englerina kapiriensis consist of rhizomes and tubers. To propagate, the plant can be carefully divided into smaller sections using a sharp, sterilized tool. Each section must have at least one healthy tuber and a good root system. The divided sections are then planted in a well-draining potting mixture and kept in a warm and moist environment that receives partial shade.
Propagation through Seeds
Seed propagation of Englerina kapiriensis is also possible but may not be the most common method since the plant is mainly propagated through division of the underground storage organs. The seeds should be collected from a healthy plant and sown in a seedling tray filled with a soil mix suitable for seed germination. The tray should be kept in a warm and moist environment that receives partial shade. The seeds will usually germinate within 2-3 weeks. Once seedlings have grown big enough, they can be transplanted into a small pot and grown under controlled conditions before being transplanted in the garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Englerina kapiriensis
Englerina kapiriensis is a shrub that is resistant to many pests and diseases. However, it can suffer from a few issues throughout its lifespan. Therefore, it is essential to know how to manage these problems to keep the plant thriving. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Englerina kapiriensis and the ways to manage them.
Common Pests that Affect Englerina kapiriensis
1. Aphids: Aphids are common pests that suck the sap from the plant. These pests cause wilting, stunted growth, and yellowing of leaves. To get rid of aphids, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil on the affected parts of the plant. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings to control aphids.
2. Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small, flying insects that feed on plant sap and transmit viruses. You can identify them by the powdery, white substance they leave on the underside of leaves. Spray insecticidal soap or neem oil on the plant to get rid of these pests. Alternatively, you can introduce natural predators like parasitic wasps or ladybugs to control whiteflies.
3. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking pests that thrive in hot and dry conditions. They cause yellowing, curling, and wilting of leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a blast of water to wash them away. Alternatively, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of these pests. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybugs or predatory mites to control spider mites.
Common Diseases that Affect Englerina kapiriensis
1. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes small, dark spots on leaves. It can eventually lead to leaf drop and defoliation. To prevent leaf spot, avoid overhead watering, and ensure that the plant has good airflow and drainage. Prune infected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide solution like copper-based fungicides.
2. Root Rot: Root rot is a condition caused by a fungal infection that affects the roots of the plant. It leads to wilting, stunted growth, and eventual plant death. To prevent root rot, ensure that the plant has well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Remove infected parts of the plant and treat the remaining roots with a fungicide solution.
3. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a powdery white coating on leaves and stems. It can lead to stunted growth and leaf drop. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure that the plant has good airflow and is not overcrowded. Spray the plant with a fungicide solution like neem oil or potassium bicarbonate to get rid of the disease.
Overall, Englerina kapiriensis is a resilient plant, and proper care can prevent pests and diseases. Regular inspection and vigilance can help you identify and manage any problems early on, preventing them from spreading and affecting your entire garden.
