Overview of Magnistipula butayei De Wild. subsp. glabriuscula Champl.
Magnistipula butayei De Wild. subsp. glabriuscula Champl. is a plant species under the family of Rubiaceae. This plant is native to Africa and is commonly found in central and western regions of the continent. It is well-known for its medicinal properties and has been used for centuries in traditional African medicine.
The Common Names of Magnistipula butayei De Wild. subsp. glabriuscula Champl.
This plant has several common names, such as "Bache du diable" in French, "Oromba" in Kikongo language, and "chipere" in Mende language. In English, it is commonly referred to as "African Mangosteen."
The Uses of Magnistipula butayei De Wild. subsp. glabriuscula Champl.
The bark, roots, and leaves of African Mangosteen have been widely used by traditional African healers to treat a variety of diseases. The plant extract has been found to have antimalarial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. The bark and leaves are also used to treat skin conditions such as eczema and fungal infections. The roots are boiled and consumed as a tea to alleviate stomach ailments, improve digestion, and relieve constipation. Additionally, the plant has been found to have anti-cancer properties and may be helpful in treating certain types of cancer.
The General Appearance of Magnistipula butayei De Wild. subsp. glabriuscula Champl.
The African Mangosteen tree grows up to 35 meters in height and has a trunk that can reach up to 2 meters in diameter. The leaves of the plant are glossy and dark green, and the bark is grayish-brown and rough to the touch. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, and grow in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit of the plant is a woody capsule, containing several seeds surrounded by a fibrous, yellow pulp that is often used in traditional African cuisine.
Light Requirements:
Magnistipula butayei De Wild. subsp. glabriuscula Champl. thrives in dappled sunlight or partial shade. Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves and damage the plant.
Temperature:
The plant requires a moderate temperature between 15°C to 25°C. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of 10°C but requires protection from frost. Extreme temperatures, below 10°C or above 35°C, can affect the plant's growth and cause wilting or yellowing of leaves.
Soil Requirements:
The plant requires well-draining soil with a pH level between 5.5 – 6.5. It can thrive in loamy soil types, sandy loam, or any soil with good drainage. The plant may require frequent watering during the growth season. It is recommended to add organic matter to the soil for better growth.
Cultivation Methods
Magnistipula butayei De Wild. subsp. glabriuscula Champl. is a shrub that is native to Cameroon, where it grows in the understory of rainforests. To cultivate this plant, it is important to recreate its natural conditions. This means providing it with partial shade, high humidity, and warm temperatures. It is also important to plant it in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Watering Needs
Magnistipula butayei De Wild. subsp. glabriuscula Champl. requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. During the dry season, it may require more frequent watering. However, overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth and flowering, Magnistipula butayei De Wild. subsp. glabriuscula Champl. should be fertilized regularly with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. This will provide the plant with the necessary nutrients, without causing a buildup of salts in the soil. Fertilizer should be applied according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Pruning
Magnistipula butayei De Wild. subsp. glabriuscula Champl. may benefit from occasional pruning to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the plant. Pruning should be done with sharp, clean tools to minimize the risk of infection. Pruning should be done after flowering, as the plant sets its buds for the following year during the summer months. It is important not to prune the plant too heavily, as this can impact its ability to flower.
Methods of Propagation for Magnistipula butayei De Wild. subsp. glabriuscula Champl.
Magnistipula butayei De Wild. subsp. glabriuscula Champl. is a rare plant species. It is a slow-growing plant that can only be propagated by using seeds, and stem cuttings. However, it's important to note that propagation through stem cuttings may be difficult because the plant's stem is incredibly hard and durable, making it difficult to root.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation of Magnistipula butayei De Wild. subsp. glabriuscula Champl. through seeds is the most recommended method. Follow these steps to successfully propagate the plant through seeds:
- Collect the ripest seeds, as they are the ones more likely to germinate.
- Germinate the seeds by planting them in seedlings. They require a temperature of about 75 degrees Fahrenheit, a well-drained soil mixture, and light watering.
- After germination, you can transplant the seedlings into containers with a potting mix. Keep the seedlings in a partially shaded place.
- Wait until the seedlings have reached a reasonable size before planting them in your garden.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
To propagate Magnistipula butayei De Wild. subsp. glabriuscula Champl through stem cuttings, follow these steps:
- Choose a healthy stem cutting from the mother plant that is at least two inches long and has several leaves.
- Remove any leaves from the bottom of the cutting, leaving only two to three leaves at the top.
- Moisten the cuttings' area to be prepared for rooting hormone application. Apply the rooting hormone and wait for around a day for the desired effect before planting.
- Plant the cutting into a container filled with well-draining soil. Water as needed, but not excessively to avoid rotting. Keep it in a partially shaded area.
- Rooting through stem cuttings can take between three to four weeks to happen. After rooting, you can then transplant the cutting into a pot or your garden.
Disease Management
The Magnistipula butayei De Wild. subsp. glabriuscula Champl. is relatively resistant to diseases, but like any other plant, it may be susceptible to certain diseases :
- Powdery mildew: This disease is characterized by the appearance of a white or gray powdery coating on the plant's leaves. To manage this, you can spray the plant with a fungicide that contains potassium bicarbonate or sulfur.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by a fungus that results in the roots becoming soft and mushy. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage of the soil.
- Leaf spot: This disease is characterized by the appearance of brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage this, prune the affected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide containing copper.
Pest Management
The Magnistipula butayei De Wild. subsp. glabriuscula Champl. is relatively resistant to pests, but like any other plant, it may be susceptible to certain pests :
- Scale insects: These insects are small and difficult to detect. They suck the plant's sap, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage scale insects, apply a horticultural oil to the plant.
- Aphids: These insects also suck the plant's sap and cause leaves to curl or yellow. To manage aphids, you can spray the plant with insecticidal soap or a neem oil solution.
- Whiteflies: These insects are small and white and cause leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage whiteflies, you can introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings or spray the plant with insecticidal soap.
