Grumilea goossensii De Wild.
Grumilea goossensii De Wild. is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is a rare plant that is only found in the tropical rainforests of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The plant was first discovered by De Wildeman in 1913.
Common names
The plant is commonly known as "Goossens' Grumilea" after the Belgian botanist who first collected the plant, Emile Goossens. It is also sometimes known as "Ngkoko-Kebulumba" in the local language of the Kongolo District in DRC.
Uses
The plant is valued for its medicinal properties. The bark, leaves, and roots of Grumilea goossensii De Wild. are used in traditional medicine in DRC to treat a variety of illnesses such as malaria, fever, and respiratory infections. In addition, the plant has been used as an aphrodisiac and to relieve joint pains. The plant's wood is also used for carving and making musical instruments.
Appearance
Grumilea goossensii De Wild. is a small tree or shrub that can reach a height of up to 10 meters. Its leaves are glossy and elliptical in shape. The plant produces small, yellow, fragrant flowers that are followed by fleshy and edible fruits. The bark of the tree is grayish-brown in color and has deep fissures. The plant has a unique appearance and is an attractive addition to gardens and parks in suitable climates.
Overall, Grumilea goossensii De Wild. is a rare and valuable plant that serves an important role in traditional medicine and makes a wonderful addition to any tropical garden.Light Requirements
The Grumilea goossensii De Wild. plant requires bright, indirect light to grow well. It cannot tolerate direct sunlight as it may burn the leaves. Therefore the plant is best grown in a semi-shaded area where it can receive the right amount of light.
Temperature Requirements
The Grumilea goossensii De Wild. plant grows optimally at temperatures between 18°C to 23°C. The plant can generally tolerate a range of temperatures ranging from 12°C to 30°C. The temperatures should always remain consistent, and it is important to ensure that the plant is not exposed to temperature fluctuations that may damage it.
Soil Requirements
The Grumilea goossensii De Wild. plant grows best in well-draining, sandy loam soils, enriched with organic matter that holds moisture and nutrients. The pH range for the soil should be between 5.5 and 6.5. If the soil is too alkaline or acidic, it may cause nutrient deficiencies, leading to stunted growth or even death of the plant. Adequate drainage systems should also be put in place to help the plant properly take in water and drain excess moisture that may encourage growth of diseases.
Cultivation methods for Grumilea goossensii De Wild.
The Grumilea goossensii De Wild. plant grows well in warm, humid conditions with dappled shade. It can thrive in a variety of soils, including loamy and moist soils with good drainage. To ensure optimal growth, it's best to plant it in well-drained soil that's rich in organic matter.
When planting, the hole should be twice as wide as the root ball, and the plant should be placed at the same depth as in the original container. Water well and keep the soil consistently moist until the plant establishes itself.
Watering needs of Grumilea goossensii De Wild.
Grumilea goossensii De Wild. likes consistent moisture but does not tolerate wet feet. The soil should be kept moist to the touch, but not saturated. It's best to water deeply and infrequently rather than shallow watering often. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
In winter, the plant needs less water, and it's important not to overwater it during this period. Watering should be reduced to prevent root rot and encourage dormancy.
Fertilization of Grumilea goossensii De Wild.
A balanced fertilizer is recommended for Grumilea goossensii De Wild. Plants. The fertilization schedule depends on the type of fertilizer used, but usually, it's best to fertilize every four to six weeks during the growing season.
Avoid fertilizing in late fall and winter because the plant goes dormant during this period. Over-fertilizing can lead to excess leaf production and fewer flowers.
Pruning Grumilea goossensii De Wild.
Pruning is not mandatory for Grumilea goossensii De Wild. However, it's necessary to remove any dead or damaged leaves and branches. Callus formation can take place after the pruning process, so it's ideal to leave the wound alone.
Additionally, pruning encourages dense foliage, and it can help shape the plant. The best time for pruning is during the growing season, to avoid shocking the plant during dormancy.
Propagation of Grumilea goossensii De Wild.
Grumilea goossensii De Wild. is a woody perennial plant that is commonly known as Kahuzi Biega Hagenia. You can propagate this plant in three different methods.
Seeds propagation
The first method is seed propagation. You can collect ripe seeds from mature plants of Grumilea goossensii De Wild. and start propagating new plants. The best time to collect seeds is during autumn.
You can sow the seeds in seed trays or pots filled with a suitable potting mix. Make sure the potting mix is slightly moist but not waterlogged. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of potting mix and label each tray or pot according to the seed source.
Keep the seeds in a warm and moist location, at a temperature between 20-25°C, and water them regularly. The germination process takes approximately three to four weeks.
Cuttings propagation
The second method of propagation is cuttings. Grumilea goossensii De Wild. can be propagated from either hardwood or softwood cuttings. Softwood cuttings are taken from new growth, while hardwood cuttings are taken from mature wood.
To take cuttings, choose healthy and disease-free stems, and cut them to a length of 10-15cm. Remove the leaves from the bottom one-third of the stem, and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder. Plant the cuttings in a suitable potting mix, and place them in a warm and moist location.
Keep the soil slightly moist, but make sure it does not get waterlogged. The cuttings will root within eight to ten weeks, by which time they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Division propagation
The third method of propagation is division. It involves dividing the root system of mature plants into smaller sections, each having one or more shoots and a healthy root system.
To divide Grumilea goossensii De Wild. plants, lift them from the soil during the dormant season. Gently remove the soil from the roots, and use a sharp, sterilized knife to divide the root system into smaller sections. Each section should have one or two shoots and a healthy root system.
Plant each section in a suitable potting mix, and place them in a warm and moist location. Keep the soil slightly moist, but do not waterlog it. Over time, the divided sections will form new shoots and grow into mature plants.
Disease Management of Grumilea goossensii De Wild.
Grumilea goossensii De Wild., commonly known as the African Jewel Orchid, is an ornamental plant that is generally resistant to diseases. However, if the plant is not appropriately maintained, it may face certain diseases. Here are some common diseases that might affect Grumilea goossensii.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes the development of brown spots on the leaves of the plants. The affected plant parts may become distorted, and leaves may drop prematurely. The best way to manage Anthracnose is by avoiding overhead watering, promptly removing the infected plant parts, and using a fungicide as per the manufacturer's instructions.
- Leaf Spot:A fungal disease that causes the development of small circular brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, prune the infected parts, improve the air circulation around the plant, and apply a fungicide approved for treating leaf spots.
- Root Rot: It is a fungal disease that causes the roots to rot and eventually die. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering the plant, ensure the proper drainage of the soil, and use a fungicide to treat the plant's roots.
Pest Management of Grumilea goossensii De Wild.
Grumilea goossensii De Wild. can attract various pests. Here are some common pests that might affect Grumilea goossensii, and ways to manage them:
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellow spots on the leaves. To eradicate spider mites, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil as per the manufacturer's instructions.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs cause the development of white, cotton-like structures on the plant's leaves and stems. To eliminate mealybugs, use insecticidal soap or wipe the plant's affected parts with cotton swabs soaked in 70% isopropyl alcohol.
- Scale Insects: Scale insects often appear as brown dots on the plant's leaves and stems. They suck the sap of the plant and cause discoloration and wilting of the leaves. To manage scale insects, prune the infected parts, spray the plant with neem oil, or use insecticidal soap.
