General Description
Hippocratea apocynoides Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. guineensis (Hutch. & M.B.Moss) N.Robson is a plant species that belongs to the family Celastraceae. It is a woody climber that grows up to 30 meters long. It has a cylindrical and twisted trunk with a thin bark. The leaves are opposite and elliptical in shape, with a length of about 10-15 cm and a width of 4-6 cm. The flowers are small and greenish-white in color, and the fruits are capsule-shaped with a diameter of 5-8 cm.
Origin and Common Names
Hippocratea apocynoides Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. guineensis (Hutch. & M.B.Moss) N.Robson is native to tropical Africa, particularly in the countries of Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and Ghana. It is commonly known as "African corkwood" or "Nigerian corkwood" in English, "Zoe" in Sierra Leone and Liberia, and "Vae" in Ivory Coast.
Uses
The bark of Hippocratea apocynoides Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. guineensis (Hutch. & M.B.Moss) N.Robson is used in traditional medicine for various ailments. In Sierra Leone and Liberia, the bark is used to treat tuberculosis, malaria, dysentery, and stomach problems. It is also used as an anticonvulsant. Additionally, the bark is used in the production of fiber, ropes, baskets, and mats.
Growth Conditions of Hippocratea apocynoides Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. guineensis (Hutch. & M.B.Moss) N.Robson
Light: Hippocratea apocynoides subsp. guineensis grows best in partially shaded to shaded areas. It can tolerate direct sunlight but not for prolonged periods. Hence, it is commonly found growing under the canopy of other trees.
Temperature: This plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions of West and Central Africa. It can tolerate a wide range of temperature but prefers temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. It cannot withstand frost or prolonged exposure to temperatures below 10°C.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, loamy, and slightly acidic to neutral soils. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, clayey, and rocky soils. However, it does not grow well in waterlogged or poorly drained soils.
Water: This plant requires moderate to high levels of water and prefers evenly moist soils. It can tolerate short periods of drought, but prolonged periods of dryness can stunt its growth and even lead to death.
Fertilizer: Though not necessary, applying a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season can improve the growth and health of the plant. However, over-fertilization can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced flowering.
Cultivation
The Hippocratea apocynoides Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. guineensis (Hutch. & M.B.Moss) N.Robson, also known as the African corkwood, is a hardy plant that adapts to a variety of conditions. It requires well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight to thrive. The plant is suitable for both indoor and outdoor cultivation and can grow up to six meters tall.
Watering Needs
African corkwood prefers moist but not waterlogged soil. During the growing season (spring and summer), the plant should be watered frequently to keep the soil evenly moist. In the winter, watering can be reduced, and the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot and is detrimental to the plant's health.
Fertilization
The African corkwood benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Fertilizers rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are ideal for the plant. Fertilization should be done every two weeks or as directed by the fertilizer manufacturer. During the winter months, fertilization can be reduced or stopped altogether.
Pruning
Pruning is beneficial to the plant as it encourages healthy growth, removes diseased or damaged branches, and keeps the plant looking neat. The African corkwood can be pruned anytime during the growing season, although it is best to prune in early spring before new growth appears. The plant responds well to shaping and can be trained into a desired shape. Use clean and sharp pruning shears to prevent damaging the branches or introducing pests and diseases.
Propagation of Hippocratea apocynoides Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. guineensis (Hutch. & M.B.Moss) N.Robson
Hippocratea apocynoides Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. guineensis (Hutch. & M.B.Moss) N.Robson can be propagated through seeds and stem cuttings.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Hippocratea apocynoides Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. guineensis (Hutch. & M.B.Moss) N.Robson can be collected from the plant when they turn brown and fall off naturally. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix in containers or seed trays. The container should be kept in a warm and humid place until the seeds germinate, which usually takes 6-8 weeks. After germination, the container can be moved to a sunny location with well-draining soil.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Hippocratea apocynoides Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. guineensis (Hutch. & M.B.Moss) N.Robson can be propagated through stem cuttings taken from a healthy plant. The cuttings should be taken from the middle of the stem and should have at least two nodes. These cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and then planted in a well-draining mix in a container. The container should be covered with a plastic bag to create a humid environment for the cuttings to root properly. The container should be placed in a warm and shady location until roots appear which usually takes around 8-12 weeks. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted to a permanent location.
Disease Management
Hippocratea apocynoides Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. guineensis (Hutch. & M.B.Moss) N.Robson is susceptible to various diseases that can affect its production, growth, and quality. Here are some common diseases and management strategies:
- Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of the plant, causing dark lesions and sunken spots. The disease can spread quickly in humid environments. Management strategies include crop rotation, pruning infected parts, and using resistant varieties. Fungicides can be used as a last resort.
- Root Rot: Root rot is a disease caused by soil-borne fungi that decays the roots, causing stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and wilting. Management strategies include good drainage, avoiding overwatering, using well-drained soil, and planting resistant cultivars. Fungicides can be used in severe cases.
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes the plant leaves to have a powdery appearance. The disease spreads rapidly in warm and dry conditions. Management strategies include removing infected parts, improving air circulation, avoiding overhead irrigation, and using fungicides.
Pest Management
Hippocratea apocynoides Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. guineensis (Hutch. & M.B.Moss) N.Robson is also vulnerable to pest attacks that can cause significant damage to the plant. Here are some common pests and management strategies:
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant sap, causing yellowing and stippling of leaves. The infestation can be controlled by using predatory mites, keeping plants healthy, and using insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies and can cause significant defoliation of the plant. They can be controlled by handpicking, using biological control agents like Bacillus thuringiensis, and using insecticides.
- Scale Insects: Scale insects are small pests that suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing, stunted growth, and leaf drop. The infestation can be controlled by pruning affected parts, using horticultural oil, and introducing natural enemies like ladybugs and lacewings.
Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to pest and disease management. Therefore, always keep plants healthy by providing adequate nutrition, water, and optimal growing conditions.
