Description of Excoecaria bussei (Pax) Pax
Excoecaria bussei (Pax) Pax is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. It is commonly known as the African milk bush or Bussi's Excoecaria, named after the German botanist Johannes Busse. This plant is native to the African continent, specifically to the tropical regions of Congo, Angola, and Zambia.
General Appearance of Excoecaria bussei (Pax) Pax
The African milk bush is a perennial shrub that can grow up to 2 meters in height. It has an erect stem that is covered with a thick layer of waxy coating. The leaves of this plant are simple, alternate, and dark green in color, with a length of 5-10 cm and a width of 3-5 cm. Excoecaria bussei (Pax) Pax produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are green or yellow in color, which bloom during summer. The fruit is a small capsule with three lobes, containing a single seed in each lobe.
Uses of Excoecaria bussei (Pax) Pax
The African milk bush has several uses, primarily in traditional medicine. The latex of this plant has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which are useful in treating skin infections, wounds, and insect bites. The plant is also used to treat rheumatism, stomach and intestinal disorders, and fever. Additionally, the latex of Excoecaria bussei (Pax) Pax is applied to arrow tips, causing paralysis in animals that are hunted for food.
Although the plant is used for medicinal purposes, it is essential to note that it is toxic and should be handled with care. The latex can cause severe skin irritation and even blindness if it comes into contact with the eyes.
Light Requirements
The Excoecaria bussei (Pax) Pax plant requires bright to moderate light conditions to grow well. However, direct sunlight must be avoided as it can damage the leaves. The plant thrives in bright, indirect light conditions such as near a west-facing window or under fluorescent lights for 14-16 hours daily.
Temperature Requirements
These plants are typically tropical and prefer warm temperatures. Temperatures between 60°F and 85°F are best for growth. Temperatures outside of this range can cause harm to the plants.
Soil Requirements
Excoecaria bussei (Pax) Pax plants require well-draining, fertile soil to grow. A good soil mix for these plants is a blend of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. A soil mix with good drainage is important to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
The plant's pot must have drainage holes to ensure excess water escapes, and the soil must be kept consistently moist. However, the soil must not be watered to the point where it is muddy.
Appropriate watering intervals are an essential aspect of Excoecaria bussei care. The soil should be allowed to dry partially before watering. The application of a diluted water-soluble fertilizer mix, every two weeks, can enhance the plant's growth and vigor.
Cultivation methods
Excoecaria bussei (Pax) Pax, commonly known as the African Milk Bush, is an easy-to-grow plant that thrives in warm indoor conditions. It requires well-draining soil, sufficient light, and a regular watering schedule. Propagation can be done through stem cuttings, and the plant can be grown in pots or in-ground depending on the preference of the grower.
Watering needs
Excoecaria bussei plants should be watered frequently but not in large amounts. It is important to ensure that soil is moist but not waterlogged as this can lead to root rot. The plant should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch and the amount of water should be able to penetrate to the root zone. During the rainy season, the plant will require less water than in the dry season.
Fertilization
The African Milk Bush requires a moderate amount of fertilization to maintain its health and vitality. It can be fertilized in the spring and summer months using liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength. For best results, apply fertilizer at every other watering. During the autumn and winter months, it is unnecessary to fertilize the plant, and it should be allowed to rest.
Pruning
Excoecaria bussei plants do not require extensive pruning. However, it is important to remove any dead or diseased parts of the plant to prevent them from spreading. Pinching back the tips of the plant will promote bushier growth. It is important to note that the plant's sap can be irritating to the skin, so gloves should be worn when handling the plant.
Propagation of Excoecaria bussei (Pax) Pax
Excoecaria bussei (Pax) Pax is a unique indoor houseplant that can be easily propagated through several methods, including:
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are the most popular way to propagate Excoecaria bussei. Take a stem cutting that is about 4-6 inches long from a healthy plant and remove all its lower leaves. Dip the end of the cutting into rooting hormone, then plant it into a pot filled with well-draining soil that has been moistened lightly. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to help it retain moisture and keep the cutting in a bright but indirect light area until new growth appears.
Division
Excoecaria bussei can be propagated through division, which involves separating the root system of a mature plant into smaller sections for replanting. Carefully remove the plant from its container and separate its root system into two or more sections. Replant each section into its container with fresh soil and keep it in bright but indirect light until it becomes established.
Air Layering
Air layering is an advanced propagation method and is best suited for experienced gardeners. It involves taking a healthy branch from the parent plant, removing a small section of bark from the middle of the branch and wrapping the exposed area with sphagnum moss that has been moistened and then covering it with plastic wrap. Roots will start to grow in the moist moss within a few weeks. Once the roots have formed, cut the branch underneath the newly-formed root system, remove the plastic wrap and plant it in a separate container filled with well-draining soil.
Seeds
Excoecaria bussei can also be propagated through seeds, but it is not the preferred method since the seeds are difficult to germinate and slow-growing. Sow fresh seeds into a pot with well-draining soil and place it in a warm and moist area until germination, which may take several weeks to several months. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into separate containers.
Disease Management
The plant Excoecaria bussei (Pax) Pax is susceptible to several diseases that can affect its health and appearance. Common diseases that can affect this plant include:
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that produces brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. The disease can be controlled by removing the infected leaves and applying a fungicide.
- Root Rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to rot. It can be controlled by reducing watering and improving the drainage around the plant.
- Leaf Spot: This is a bacterial disease that produces brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. It can be controlled by removing the infected leaves and applying a bactericide.
Regular monitoring of the plant and prompt action to control any disease outbreaks can help to maintain the health of the plant.
Pest Management
The plant Excoecaria bussei (Pax) Pax is also susceptible to several pests that can cause damage to the plant. Common pests that can affect this plant include:
- Spider Mites: These pests feed on the leaves of the plant, causing them to appear speckled or discolored. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with a miticide.
- Scale Insects: These pests attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant, sucking the sap and causing the plant to weaken. They can be controlled by removing the insects with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
- Mealybugs: These pests produce a white, powdery substance on the leaves of the plant and can cause stunted growth. They can be controlled by removing the insects with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
Regular inspection of the plant and prompt action to control any pest infestations can help to maintain the health and appearance of the plant. Additionally, providing good growing conditions (such as appropriate light and humidity) can help to strengthen the plant and make it less susceptible to disease and pest problems.
