Description of Landolphia calabarica (Stapf) Bruce
Landolphia calabarica (Stapf) Bruce, also known as Calabar bean or chopi in Nigeria, is a woody perennial climbing plant in the Apocynaceae family. This plant is native to West and Central Africa, including Cameroon, Gabon, Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
General Appearance
Landolphia calabarica has a thick, succulent stem that grows up to 20 meters in length and has woody tendrils that wrap around the support structure. The leaves of this plant are ovate and glossy, growing up to 15 cm in length and 10 cm in width. It bears white, fragrant flowers that grow up to 3 cm in diameter, which later produce green capsules that contain 2-10 seeds.
Common Uses
The seeds of the Landolphia calabarica are highly toxic but have medicinal properties. The seeds are used in traditional medicine to treat conditions such as epilepsy and as a stimulant. The seeds are also used in the production of powerful drugs, such as physostigmine and eserine, which are used in the treatment of glaucoma. The bark of the plant is also used for medicinal purposes, treating sores, dysentery, and diarrhea.
The latex from the plant is used to produce rubber and is also used in the production of chewing gum. The plant is also used for ornamental purposes due to its glossy leaves and attractive flowers.
Light Requirements
Landolphia calabarica thrives under bright indirect light conditions. Avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight as it may scorch the leaves. It is essential to ensure that the plant receives at least 6 hours of bright, but indirect light per day, for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for Landolphia calabarica is between 18°C to 27°C (64°F to 80°F). The plant cannot survive in temperatures lower than 10°C (50°F). Therefore, it is advisable to keep the plant away from drafty areas, air conditioners, or heating vents that could affect the temperature's consistency.
Soil Requirements
Landolphia calabarica grows best in well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should be permeable enough to avoid waterlogging, and nutrients should be available. A mixture of peat moss and perlite/sand in a 1:1 ratio is ideal for growing this plant. Topsoil or a mixture of loam and sand can also work well. Regular soil fertilization is necessary to maintain necessary minerals for growth.
Cultivation Methods
Landolphia calabarica, also known as the Calabar rubber vine, is a climbing plant that thrives in warm, tropical regions with high humidity levels. It prefers well-drained soils and partial shade. When planting, choose a spot with filtered sunlight and loose, loamy soil. The plant can be propagated through stem-cuttings or seeds.
When planting through cuttings, remove the lower leaves from the stem and dip them into rooting hormone before planting them in the soil. Water the cutting regularly and provide it with enough sunlight for it to grow maturely. On the other hand, propagation through seeds is done by sowing the seeds in well-prepared, well-drained soil and keeping the soil moist.
Watering Needs
Landolphia calabarica requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. Water the plant at least two to three times a week, depending on the climate in your area. Ensure the soil drains well to avoid waterlogging, which could lead to root rot. When watering, avoid wetting the leaves, as this could cause fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Landolphia calabarica requires regular fertilization to grow and thrive. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal ratios of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. Fertilize the plant at least once a month during the growing season, which is from spring to fall. Reduce fertilizers during the winter season.
Pruning
Pruning is essential in the cultivation of Landolphia calabarica. Regular pruning helps keep the plant in good shape and promote healthy growth. Prune the plant during the dormant season by cutting off the dead parts and diseased leaves. You can also remove unwanted branches to allow enough space for new growth. Train the plant to climb a trellis or fence to maximize its growth potential.
Propagation methods for Landolphia calabarica
Landolphia calabarica (Stapf) Bruce is a climbing tropical plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to Central and West Africa. Propagation of this plant can be achieved through different methods:
Seed propagation
Seeds can be harvested from mature fruits of the Landolphia calabarica plant. The seeds can be directly sown into the soil or in containers. For better germination rates, it is recommended to soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter.
The seeds should be planted about 2 cm deep in the soil and covered lightly with compost or mulch. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Germination can be expected within 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the environmental conditions.
Cutting propagation
Cuttings can also be used to propagate Landolphia calabarica. Cuttings should be taken from the upper parts of the plant, which are still young and flexible. The cuttings should be about 15 cm long and should have at least two nodes. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone before planting.
The cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist. They should be placed in a bright but shaded area and protected from direct sunlight. Roots will start to develop within 2 to 3 weeks and can then be transplanted to a larger container or directly to the field.
Air layering propagation
Air layering is another method for propagating Landolphia calabarica. This method is suitable for older plants that are at least two years old. A small branch of about 1 cm in diameter should be selected and stripped of foliage at a 20 cm height. A ring of bark should be removed at the stripped portion and covered with moist sphagnum moss wrapped in plastic film.
The moss should be kept wet and the plastic should remain in place for several weeks until roots start to grow. The rooted portion can be cut off and planted in a suitable container or directly in the field.
Whichever propagation method is selected, the resulting young plants should be watered regularly, protected from pests and diseases, and allowed to grow to maturity before harvesting.
Disease Management for Landolphia calabarica
Landolphia calabarica or bush mango is a resilient plant that is not much affected by diseases. However, the plant may suffer from fungal infections, such as powdery mildew and leaf spot diseases.
Powdery mildew appears like a powdery white substance on the leaf surfaces and can cause the leaves to curl and distort. To manage powdery mildew, ensure adequate air circulation around the plant, prune infected foliage, and apply fungicides.
Leaf spot diseases manifest as yellow or brown spots on the leaves of the bush mango. Infected leaves eventually drop and defoliate the plant if the disease is not controlled. Applying fungicides and pruning are effective in managing leaf spot diseases.
Pest Management for Landolphia calabarica
The bush mango plant is relatively resistant to pests, though it may sometimes suffer from infestations from mites, scales, and mealybugs.
Mealybugs appear as small white, fuzzy insects that cluster on the leaves, causing them to yellow and drop. To manage mealybug infestations, release natural enemies such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps or apply insecticidal soaps.
Scales look like small brown bumps or small oval-shaped bumps on the leaves and stems, mostly in clusters. These pests pierce the plant cells and suck out sap leading to stunted growth, defoliation, and even plant death. Scrubbing off the scales with a soft brush and using insecticidal soaps or oils can help manage the infestation.
Mites are small and difficult to see with the naked eye. Infested leaves may appear yellow and drop prematurely. Spraying infected foliage with water or using insecticidal soaps and miticides can help control mite infestations.
It is essential to catch and manage disease and pest infestations early to prevent damage to the bush mango plant. Regularly inspecting the plants and using organic pest management methods are the best ways to maintain the plant's health.
