Plant Description
Keetia molundensis (K.Krause) Bridson var. macrostipulata (De Wild.) Bridson is a flowering plant that belongs to the family of Rubiaceae. It is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 3 meters in height. The leaves are simple, opposite, ovate to elliptical in shape, and have a glossy appearance. The flowers are small, yellow to whitish, and are arranged in axillary and terminal cymes. The fruit is a small, fleshy, and red drupe that contains one to two seeds.
Origin and Common Names
Keetia molundensis (K.Krause) Bridson var. macrostipulata (De Wild.) Bridson is native to the tropical rainforest regions of Western Africa, particularly in Cameroon, Gabon, and the Congo Basin. It is commonly known as "Akpi" in Cameroon and "Djansang" in Gabon.
Uses
The seeds of Keetia molundensis (K.Krause) Bridson var. macrostipulata (De Wild.) Bridson are highly valued for their culinary and medicinal properties. The seeds are rich in oil and protein and are commonly used in the preparation of traditional dishes such as soups, stews, and sauces. The oil extracted from the seeds is also used as a cooking oil and in the production of cosmetic products. In addition, the plant is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as stomach pain, fever, and malaria.
General Appearance
Keetia molundensis (K.Krause) Bridson var. macrostipulata (De Wild.) Bridson is a small tree or shrub with glossy leaves, small yellow to whitish flowers, and small red fruits. It has a bushy and compact habit and can be grown as an ornamental plant or as a source of food and medicine.
Light Requirements
The Keetia molundensis var. macrostipulata plant typically requires moderate to bright light to grow optimally. This plant will thrive in areas with partial shade, receiving about six hours of bright but indirect sunlight each day. Direct sunlight exposure is not recommended as it can result in leaf scorch, particularly in warmer climates. If grown indoors, artificial grow lights or fluorescent lights can also be used to supplement natural light.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to tropical regions, and as such, it thrives in temperatures ranging from 18 to 30°C (64-86°F). Temperatures below 15°C (59°F) can lead to stunted growth, leaf yellowing, and even death. Conversely, excessively high temperatures above 32°C (89°F) can result in leaf drop and dehydration, particularly when accompanied by low humidity levels.
Soil Requirements
The Keetia molundensis var. macrostipulata plant does well in well-draining, slightly acidic soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. It prefers moist but not waterlogged soil as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. This plant is not drought-tolerant and therefore requires consistent moisture levels. A sufficient mix of organic matter like peat moss or leaf mulch should be added to allow for adequate water retention and nutrient uptake.
Cultivation Methods
Keetia molundensis var. macrostipulata grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers partial shade to full shade conditions, including bright indirect light. The plant is sensitive to cold temperatures, so it should be kept at temperatures above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. This plant can be propagated through stem cuttings or by seeds.
Watering Needs
Keetia molundensis var. macrostipulata thrives in moist soil, but it does not like to be overly wet. The plant should be watered regularly, but make sure the soil has time to dry out a bit between waterings. Overwatering can result in root rot, which can damage or kill the plant.
Fertilization
Keetia molundensis var. macrostipulata will benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks. Avoid fertilizing during the fall and winter months, as the plant goes into a dormant stage and does not require as much nutrients.
Pruning
Keetia molundensis var. macrostipulata can be pruned to control its shape and size. Pruning can also stimulate new growth and promote bushier growth. Prune the plant in early spring before it begins to put out new growth. Cut back any leggy or weak stems to encourage a fuller and healthier plant. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts and avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Keetia molundensis (K.Krause) Bridson var. macrostipulata (De Wild.) Bridson
Keetia molundensis (K.Krause) Bridson var. macrostipulata (De Wild.) Bridson can be propagated through both seeds and vegetative means.
Propagation through seeds:
The seeds of Keetia molundensis (K.Krause) Bridson var. macrostipulata (De Wild.) Bridson can be collected once they are mature. The seeds must be cleaned and sown in potting soil. The seeds must be sown at a depth of approximately 0.5 cm and kept in a shaded and humid location. Adequate watering must be ensured, and the soil must be kept moist to promote germination. Germination can take anywhere between two weeks to six months, and once the seedlings have grown a few leaves, they can be transplanted to larger pots.
Vegetative Propagation:
Keetia molundensis (K.Krause) Bridson var. macrostipulata (De Wild.) Bridson can be propagated vegetatively through methods such as stem cuttings, air layering and grafting.
Stem Cuttings: Healthy and mature stems must be carefully selected, and the leaves must be snipped off. The stems must be cut into pieces that are approximately 10-15cm in length, ensuring that each piece has at least two nodes. The cuttings must be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in well-draining soil. Regular misting and humidity must be maintained, and the cuttings must be kept in a shaded location until they develop roots.
Air Layering: This propagation method involves creating a wound in the stem and inducing root growth. A small section of the stem must be selected, and the bark must be removed. The exposed wood must be covered with a rooting hormone, and the area must be wrapped in moist sphagnum moss. The moss must be covered with plastic wrap, and the area must be kept moist. Roots will develop in 2-3 months, at which point, the rooted section can be severed from the parent plant and potted in well-draining soil.
Grafting: This method involves joining a stem section of Keetia molundensis (K.Krause) Bridson var. macrostipulata (De Wild.) Bridson to the rootstock of another plant. The rootstock must be a vigorous and resistant plant. Both the stem section and the rootstock must be matched for size and diameter. The two sections must be joined using a grafting tape and kept in a humid and shaded location until the graft has taken. The top section can then be trimmed to encourage new growth.
Disease and Pest Management for Keetia molundensis var. macrostipulata
Keetia molundensis var. macrostipulata, commonly known as the "Nzoh-Gong" shrub, is an evergreen plant that belongs to the family Rubiaceae. This ornamental shrub is native to central Africa and is grown for its decorative foliage and fragrant flowers. However, Nzoh-Gong shrubs can be prone to several diseases and pests that can affect their growth and vitality. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Keetia molundensis var. macrostipulata and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal Leaf Spots: Leaf spots are small, circular or angular areas that develop on plant leaves. Fungal leaf spots can be caused by several fungal pathogens. Symptoms of fungal leaf spots on Keetia molundensis var. macrostipulata include brown, yellow or black spots on leaves. The disease can be managed by removing and destroying infected leaves, providing good air circulation, and avoiding overhead irrigation. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and flowers of Keetia molundensis var. macrostipulata. The symptoms of anthracnose include small, dark lesions on leaves and stems, which enlarge and merge together, causing tissue death. Cankers may also form on stems and branches. The disease can be managed by pruning and destroying infected plant parts, providing good air circulation, and using fungicides.
Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause significant damage to Keetia molundensis var. macrostipulata. They feed on the plant sap, which causes leaves to turn yellow and fall off prematurely. Spider mites can be managed by releasing predatory mites or other natural enemies, spraying the plant foliage with water to increase humidity, and using insecticidal soaps or oils.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, oval-shaped pests that attach themselves to plant foliage and suck sap. Infestations of scale insects on Keetia molundensis var. macrostipulata can cause leaf yellowing and disfiguration. Scale insects can be managed by scraping them off with a soft brush, using horticultural oil sprays or insecticidal soaps, or releasing natural enemies like ladybugs and lacewings.
By being vigilant and regularly inspecting your Keetia molundensis var. macrostipulata for signs of disease and pest infestations, you can ensure that it remains healthy and beautiful.
