Introduction
Jasminum odoratissimum L. subsp. goetzeanum (Gilg) P.S.Green is a variety of the Jasmine plant that is native to East Africa. The plant belongs to the Oleaceae family, which includes olive, ash, and lilac trees. This variety of Jasmine has several unique characteristics that distinguish it from other Jasmine plants.Origin
Jasminum odoratissimum L. subsp. goetzeanum (Gilg) P.S.Green is endemic to Tanzania. It is commonly found in the East Usambara Mountains, where it grows in the understory of forests and along riverbanks. The plant has also been introduced to other parts of the world, including Asia and the Americas.Common Names
Jasminum odoratissimum L. subsp. goetzeanum (Gilg) P.S.Green is commonly known as the East African Jasmine or Tanzania Jasmine. In Swahili, the plant is referred to as "Mwarobaini," which translates to "forty-families," a reference to its wide usage among different communities.Appearance
Jasminum odoratissimum L. subsp. goetzeanum (Gilg) P.S.Green is a small shrub or vine that can grow up to 2-3 meters in height. The leaves are ovate or elliptic in shape and are dark green in color. The flowers are white, tubular-shaped, and grow in clusters. The plant blooms in the summer, and its flowers have a sweet, intense fragrance that attracts a variety of pollinators.Uses
Jasminum odoratissimum L. subsp. goetzeanum (Gilg) P.S.Green has several uses in traditional medicine and as an ornamental plant. In Tanzania, the plant is used to treat digestive problems and respiratory ailments. The plant's flowers are also used to make perfumes, essential oils, and tea. In addition, Jasminum odoratissimum L. subsp. goetzeanum (Gilg) P.S.Green is a popular ornamental plant and is grown in gardens, parks, and along roadsides. Its attractive flowers and sweet fragrance make it a sought-after plant.Light Requirements:
Jasminum odoratissimum L. subsp. goetzeanum (Gilg) P.S.Green thrives well in bright, direct sunlight. However, it can also tolerate partial shade but doesn't grow well in full shade conditions. It needs at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth. As a result, it's best to plant the vine in locations where it can receive enough sunlight, such as areas near balconies or windows facing south or west.
Temperature Requirements:
The plant grows best in warm or hot climates. Ideally, the temperatures should be between 60°F to 85°F (15°C to 29°C). This vine is tolerant of occasional temperature fluctuations but cannot tolerate prolonged periods of freezing temperature. Therefore, it's best to cover the plants in cold seasons to avoid the risk of frost damage.
Soil Requirements:
Jasminum odoratissimum L. subsp. goetzeanum (Gilg) P.S.Green thrives in well-drained and fertile soils. The soil should be rich in nutrients and organic matter and have a pH range of 6 to 7.5 for optimal growth. To improve soil fertility, manure or compost should be added to the soil before planting. The plant prefers moderately moist soils, thus avoid waterlogged soils as they can cause root rot.
Cultivation methods
The Jasminum odoratissimum L. subsp. goetzeanum (Gilg) P.S.Green plant grows best in well-drained soil with partial to full sunlight exposure. The plant can be propagated through stem cuttings, seeds, or layering. Cuttings and layering can be done in the spring, while seeds can be planted in the fall or spring.
Watering needs
The plant should be watered properly to maintain soil moisture. Jasminum odoratissimum L. subsp. goetzeanum (Gilg) P.S.Green plant needs to be watered regularly during the growing season, especially if grown in a hot and dry climate. Avoid overwatering, as it can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
The plant should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Apply a slow-release granular fertilizer around the base of the plant and water thoroughly to ensure proper nutrient uptake. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can cause nutrient burn and damage to the plant.
Pruning
Pruning helps to maintain the shape and size of the plant. Jasminum odoratissimum L. subsp. goetzeanum (Gilg) P.S.Green plant should be pruned after flowering to promote new growth and maintain its shape. Remove dead, damaged, and diseased branches to reduce the risk of pests and diseases in the plant. Prune the plant lightly to maintain its natural form and structure.
Propagation methods for Jasminum odoratissimum L. subsp. goetzeanum (Gilg) P.S.Green
Jasminum odoratissimum L. subsp. goetzeanum (Gilg) P.S.Green can be propagated through several methods. The most common methods are:
1. Seeds propagation:
The plant's seeds can be germinated to produce new plants. The seeds should be extracted from the ripe fruit and washed properly to remove any pulp. The seeds should then be sown in a seed-starting mix, which is kept moist until germination. Germination can take four to six weeks, after which the seedlings can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the ground.
2. Stem cuttings:
Stem cuttings of Jasminum odoratissimum L. subsp. goetzeanum (Gilg) P.S.Green can be rooted to produce new plants. Cuttings of 6 to 8 inches with 2 to 3 pairs of leaves are taken from the plant's stem. These cuttings are then dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a mix of peat moss and sand. The cuttings should be kept moist and placed in a shaded area until roots develop, which usually occurs within 4 to 6 weeks. Afterward, the new plants can be repotted or planted directly into the ground.
3. Layering:
Layering of Jasminum odoratissimum L. subsp. goetzeanum (Gilg) P.S.Green is another means of propagation. This method involves pegging a low hanging branch of the plant to the ground, covering it with moist soil, and allowing it to root. After the rooting process, the branch can be cut from the parent plant and transplanted to a new location or left in place as a new plant.
4. Division:
The root ball of mature Jasminum odoratissimum L. subsp. goetzeanum (Gilg) P.S.Green plants is typically large enough to be divided into two or more portions. Dividing plants to produce new ones is a straightforward process that involves digging up the plant, untangling the roots, and splitting the root ball into two or more sections. Each section is then replanted in a new location and watered properly.
Disease management
Jasminum odoratissimum L. subsp. goetzeanum is susceptible to some common diseases that affect many plants. These diseases include:
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. To control this disease, remove and destroy infected plant parts, ensure adequate air circulation around the plant, and avoid overhead watering.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is also a fungal disease that causes circular spots on the leaves. To control leaf spot, remove and destroy infected leaves, ensure adequate air circulation around the plant, and avoid overhead watering.
- Canker: Canker is a bacterial disease that causes sunken lesions on stems. To control canker, remove infected plant parts, sterilize pruning tools between cuts, and avoid overhead watering.
Pest management
Jasminum odoratissimum L. subsp. goetzeanum is also susceptible to some common pests. These pests include:
- Mites: Mites are tiny pests that feed on plant sap, causing leaves to become discolored and distorted. To control mites, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil, and ensure adequate humidity around the plant.
- Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that also feed on plant sap. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, cottony insects that also feed on plant sap. They can be controlled by removing and destroying infected plant parts, spraying with insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introducing natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings.
