Overview
Maesa lanceolata Forssk. var. mildbraedii (Gilg & G.Schellenb.) Lebrun, is a flowering evergreen shrub that belongs to the Primulaceae family. It is commonly known as African tree maesa or African holly.
Origin
African tree maesa is native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is found in several countries including Angola, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Kenya, Malawi, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Appearance
The African tree maesa can grow up to 6 meters tall and has smooth, dark, and shiny leaves that are lanceolate-shaped. Its flowers are small, white, and star-shaped, and they grow in clusters. The plant produces small black berries that are edible but not commonly consumed.
Uses
The African tree maesa has several medicinal uses in traditional African medicine. It is used to treat various ailments, including malaria, fever, and respiratory infections. In addition, the leaves of the plant are used in the production of traditional medicine in some African countries. The plant is also used for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscaping.
Light Requirements:
Maesa lanceolata Forssk. var. mildbraedii (Gilg & G.Schellenb.) Lebrun requires moderate to bright indirect light to thrive. Direct sunlight may scorch the leaves, causing damage to the plant. It grows well in places with filtered light or partial sun, where it gets enough light to photosynthesize.
Temperature Requirements:
This plant thrives in a temperature range between 60°F (15.5°C) and 78°F (25.5°C). It can tolerate lower temperatures but may suffer from cold stress if exposed to severe cold. It is crucial to avoid placing the plant near air conditioning vents, cold drafts, or excessively hot areas as extreme temperatures can harm the plant.
Soil Requirements:
Maesa lanceolata Forssk. var. mildbraedii (Gilg & G.Schellenb.) Lebrun prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil, with a pH ranging between 5.5 and 6.5. It needs fertile and loamy soil that is rich in nutrients and organic matter to support optimal growth. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged as this may harm the roots of the plant. Adding perlite or sand to the soil can help improve drainage.
Cultivation Methods
Maesa lanceolata Forssk. var. mildbraedii (Gilg & G.Schellenb.) Lebrun is a tropical plant that thrives in warm temperatures and humid conditions. It is advisable to plant it in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. This plant is relatively easy to grow, and it can be propagated through seeds, cutting, or air-layering. The best time to plant it is during the rainy seasons when the likelihood of drought is not high.
Watering Needs
Maesa lanceolata Forssk. var. mildbraedii requires regular watering, especially during the dry seasons. However, it is essential to avoid overwatering the plant as it can lead to root rot. It is recommended to water the plant when the topsoil feels dry to the touch. It is also best to use room temperature or warm water for watering, as cold water can shock the plant.
Fertilization
Maesa lanceolata Forssk. var. mildbraedii requires regular fertilization to promote its growth and flowering. It is essential to use a well-balanced fertilizer that contains a combination of essential nutrients such as nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. Fertilize the plant once every two weeks during the growing season and reduce the frequency in winter. Make sure not to overfertilize as it can lead to nutrient burn and other issues.
Pruning
Maesa lanceolata Forssk. var. mildbraedii requires minimal pruning, but it is crucial to remove any diseased, damaged, or dead parts of the plant promptly. Prune the plant to promote its shape and to prevent overgrowth that can affect its health and appearance. It is best to prune the plant during the active growth season, usually in the spring. Prune selectively, focusing on removing the unwanted branches and twigs. Use sharp and sterilized pruning tools to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Maesa lanceolata Forssk. var. mildbraedii (Gilg & G.Schellenb.) Lebrun
Maesa lanceolata Forssk. var. mildbraedii (Gilg & G.Schellenb.) Lebrun can be propagated through various methods such as:
Seeds
Seeds from ripe fruits can be collected and sown in well-prepared soil. The seeds should be scattered on the surface, lightly covered with soil, and then watered. It takes about 2 to 3 weeks for the seedlings to emerge from the soil. Maesa lanceolata Forssk. var. mildbraedii (Gilg & G.Schellenb.) Lebrun seeds are usually viable for a year.
Cuttings
Maesa lanceolata Forssk. var. mildbraedii (Gilg & G.Schellenb.) Lebrun can be propagated by stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from a healthy plant and planted in a well-prepared soil. Cuttings should be about 5 to 8 cm long and should be taken from the current year's growth. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth. It takes about 3 to 4 weeks for the cuttings to root and start producing new growth.
Air layering
Air layering is a propagation method that can be used for Maesa lanceolata Forssk. var. mildbraedii (Gilg & G.Schellenb.) Lebrun. This technique involves wounding the stem of a healthy plant and applying rooting hormone to the wound. Then, the wound is covered in moist sphagnum moss, which is held in place by plastic wrap. Roots will form at the wound site, and then the rooted stem can be cut from the parent plant and planted in soil. It takes about 4 to 6 weeks for the roots to form.
Disease Management
Various diseases can affect Maesa lanceolata Forssk. var. mildbraedii (Gilg & G.Schellenb.) Lebrun. The most common include:
- Powdery mildew: Symptoms include a white powdery substance on leaves, stems, and flowers. Management practices include pruning plants for better air circulation and applying a fungicide as needed.
- Leaf spot: Symptoms include circular brown spots on leaves that may have a yellow halo. Management practices include removing infected leaves and applying a fungicide as needed.
- Root rot: Symptoms include wilting and yellowing leaves and stunted growth. Management practices include improving drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Pest Management
Maesa lanceolata Forssk. var. mildbraedii (Gilg & G.Schellenb.) Lebrun can also be affected by various pests, including:
- Aphids: Symptoms include distorted leaves and the presence of aphids on the underside of leaves. Management practices include spraying the plant with water to remove aphids and using insecticidal soap as needed.
- Spider mites: Symptoms include yellowing leaves, webbing, and the presence of mites on the underside of leaves. Management practices include removing infected leaves, increasing humidity, and using insecticidal soap as needed.
- Scale insects: Symptoms include small, brown bumps on stems and leaves. Management practices include removing infected leaves and stems and using horticultural oil as needed.
