Origin
The Maesa lanceolata Forssk. subsp. borjaeana (Henriq.) White is a species of flowering plant in the family Primulaceae and is native to Africa.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the African Sandalwood, African Boxwood, or Borjaean Maesa.
Uses
Traditionally, the African Sandalwood has been used for medicinal purposes, especially in cases of dysentery, headache, fever, and as an analgesic. In some African cultures, it was believed to have protective and curative powers, serving as an antidote to poison and strengthening the immune system. Besides, the plant's leaves and stems have been used for rope-making material and basket weaving.
General Appearance
The African Sandalwood is a small shrub that can grow up to about two meters in height. The plant has an erect habit, a dense crown of leaves, and a woody bark. The leaves are firm, thick, lanceolate to elliptic, and arranged alternately on the stem. The plant produces clusters of small, white, fragrant flowers with five petals and a yellow center, which are followed by red or black, round fruit that hang down from the branches. The African Sandalwood is an attractive ornamental plant and will thrive in warm, humid conditions with well-drained soil.
Typical Growth Conditions of Maesa lanceolata Forssk. subsp. borjaeana (Henriq.) White
Light: This plant thrives in areas that receive bright, indirect light or partial shade. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while very little light can lead to leggy growth and poor flowering performance.
Temperature: Maesa lanceolata Forssk. subsp. borjaeana (Henriq.) White is generally a tropical plant and prefers temperatures between 18°C and 22°C. These plants do not tolerate frost or extreme heat.
Soil Requirements: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is high in organic matter. A pH range of 6.0 to 6.5 is best for optimal growth. It is recommended to mix soil with sand and perlite to ensure good drainage while providing enough moisture for the growth of this plant.
In summary, Maesa lanceolata Forssk. subsp. borjaeana (Henriq.) White prefers bright, indirect light and partial shade, temperatures between 18°C and 22°C, and well-draining soil high in organic matter with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.5.
Cultivation Methods
Maesa lanceolata Forssk. subsp. borjaeana (Henriq.) White is a plant that grows well in warm, tropical environments. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and can be grown in containers or directly in the ground. The plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter to grow well.
Watering Needs
Maesa lanceolata Forssk. subsp. borjaeana (Henriq.) White requires moderate watering. The plant needs to be watered regularly to maintain moisture levels and prevent the soil from drying out. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be detrimental to the plant's growth. To ensure the plant receives the right amount of water, it is best to check the topsoil's moisture levels and water it again when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
The plant requires periodic fertilization to maintain healthy growth and flowering. A balanced fertilizer rich in nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus can be applied during the growing season. The fertilizer should be applied at regular intervals to provide the plant with a constant supply of nutrients.
Pruning
Maesa lanceolata Forssk. subsp. borjaeana (Henriq.) White requires minimal pruning. The plant is naturally bushy and can be left to grow naturally. However, if the plant has dead or dying foliage, it should be removed to prevent any pests or diseases from spreading to the rest of the plant. Any unnecessary growth should also be pruned to maintain the plant's shape and size.
Propagation of Maesa lanceolata Forssk. subsp. borjaeana (Henriq.) White
Maesa lanceolata Forssk. subsp. borjaeana (Henriq.) White can be propagated through different methods such as seed propagation, stem cuttings, and air layering.
Seed propagation
The plant's seeds can be collected from mature fruits and sowed in well-draining soil mixed with some sand. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil, and then watered adequately. The soil surface should be kept moist until the seeds germinate which takes approximately 1-3 weeks. Once the seedlings have grown to a certain size, they can be transplanted to a larger container or directly into the field.
Stem cuttings
The cuttings method involves taking cuttings from the plant's stem, usually softwood, and planting them in a rooting hormone. They should be placed in a growing medium, preferably well-draining soil or sand, and kept in a humid environment by misting regularly. After the roots have formed, they can be transplanted into a larger container or into the field.
Air layering
Air layering involves taking a mature branch of the plant and removing a ring of bark. The exposed section should be covered with a rooting hormone and wrapped in a moist medium such as sphagnum peat moss. The area should then be covered with plastic wrap to maintain a moist environment. After roots have developed, the branch can be removed and planted in a larger container or directly into the field.
Disease Management
Maesa lanceolata Forssk. subsp. borjaeana (Henriq.) White has not been reported to be severely affected by any specific diseases. However, the plant can be susceptible to general plant diseases such as bacterial and fungal infections. It is important to keep the plant healthy by providing proper care and optimal growing conditions.
To prevent bacterial and fungal infections, it is essential to avoid overwatering and keep the humidity levels in check. Avoid watering the plant from above, as this can promote the growth of fungal spores on the leaves. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to inhibit the growth of fungi and bacteria that thrive in damp conditions. Remove any infected leaves and plant debris around the plant, and dispose of them safely to prevent the spread of disease.
In case of severe bacterial or fungal infection, it is recommendable to use chemical treatments such as copper fungicides, neem oil, or potassium bicarbonate powder. Always follow the instructions on the products and wear protective clothing when applying them.
Pest Management
Maesa lanceolata Forssk. subsp. borjaeana (Henriq.) White is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, like most plants, it can still be affected by some pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.
Aphids are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to wilt and yellow. To manage aphids, it is advisable to wash them off with a strong jet of water and apply insecticidal soap. Spider mites are tiny pests that turn the leaves yellow and cause fine webbing to appear around the plant. To manage spider mites, wipe the leaves with a damp cloth and apply insecticidal soap. Whiteflies are small white insects that fly around the plant. They feed on the plant sap and may secrete a sticky substance on the leaves, causing them to turn black. To manage whiteflies, use yellow sticky traps and apply insecticidal soap.
It is also recommendable to keep the plant healthy by providing adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients to enhance its natural defenses against pests and diseases.
