Origin
Neoboivinella kilimandscharica (G.M.Schulze) Aubrév. & Pellegr. is commonly known as Kilimanjaro guava, which is a little-known fruit tree that is endemic to Africa and is found in the highlands of East Africa. The plant is native to Tanzania and grows in the Kilimanjaro mountain range, hence its name.
Common Names
Neoboivinella kilimandscharica is commonly known as Kilimanjaro guava in English, and "Mbigiri," "Mbilikimo," or "Mkakase" in Swahili.
Uses
Neoboivinella kilimandscharica is an important plant that has various uses in traditional medicine and is used to treat various ailments such as coughs, malaria, and stomach problems. The plant has also been shown to have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. The fruit is edible and is used to make juice and jam.
General Appearance
Neoboivinella kilimandscharica is a small tree that grows up to 6 meters tall and has a rounded canopy. The tree has dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and are arranged alternately on the branches. The fruit of the tree is small, round, and green and turns yellow when ripe. The fruit has a sweet taste and a pleasant aroma.
Light Requirements
Neoboivinella kilimandscharica requires bright indirect light to thrive. A place with an east or west-facing window where it can receive 4 to 6 hours of sunlight is ideal. When exposed to direct sunlight, the leaves can burn, so it's best to avoid placing the plant in a location where it could receive more than two hours of direct sunlight each day.
Temperature Requirements
The best temperature range for Neoboivinella kilimandscharica is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It cannot tolerate temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, and exposure to colder temperatures for an extended period can lead to stunted growth or death. Keep the plant in a warm location to ensure proper growth and development.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Neoboivinella kilimandscharica should be well-draining, as the plant is susceptible to root rot. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is a good choice for soil. The pH level of the soil should be around 6 to 7.5 to provide the best growing environment for the plant.
Cultivation of Neoboivinella kilimandscharica
Neoboivinella kilimandscharica is a slow-growing plant that requires special care if you want it to thrive. It needs a well-draining soil mixture that is rich in organic matter and a partially shaded location that is protected from direct sunlight. When cultivating this plant, it is important to bear in mind that it is adapted to high altitudes of up to 2000 meters above sea level.
Watering Needs of Neoboivinella kilimandscharica
This plant prefers to be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water it regularly, making sure the soil is moist but not saturated. It is important to avoid letting the soil dry out completely as this can lead to the plant wilting and dying. If the soil is too wet, this can cause the roots to rot and lead to plant death.
Fertilization of Neoboivinella kilimandscharica
Neoboivinella kilimandscharica will benefit from regular fertilization to encourage healthy growth. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer or slow-release granular fertilizer to ensure that your plant is getting all the necessary nutrients. However, be careful not to over-fertilize as this can cause excess growth and lead to poorly developed root systems.
Pruning Neoboivinella kilimandscharica
This plant does not require heavy pruning, but dead or damaged leaves or stems should be removed regularly. This pruning helps to keep the plant looking neat and also encourages new growth. Be careful not to remove too much foliage as this can stress the plant and slow down its growth rate.
Propagation of Neoboivinella kilimandscharica
Neoboivinella kilimandscharica is a beautiful plant with a relatively slow growth rate. In order to propagate the plant, there are several methods that can be used:
Division
Division is one of the simplest and most effective ways to propagate Neoboivinella kilimandscharica. The process involves dividing the plant into smaller parts and replanting them in new pots. Dividing the plant is best done during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Ensure that each division has enough roots and leaves to grow on its own.
Leaf cuttings
Neoboivinella kilimandscharica can also be propagated from leaf cuttings. Choose a healthy leaf from the plant, making sure that it has some stem attached. Then, cut the leaf from the stem, leaving about an inch of stem attached. Dip the stem in rooting hormone powder and plant it in moist soil. Keep the soil moist, and new plants should start growing in a few weeks.
Seed
Propagation from seeds can also be done, but it is a slow process. The seeds can be sown in a tray filled with soil and kept in a warm, bright area. Cover the tray with plastic to provide humidity, and keep the soil moist. The seeds should germinate in a few weeks. Once they have grown a few inches, transplant them into individual pots.
Overall, with the right care and propagation method, Neoboivinella kilimandscharica can be easily propagated and grown into a beautiful plant.
Disease Management:
Neoboivinella kilimandscharica (G.M.Schulze) Aubrév. & Pellegr. can be susceptible to several diseases. One of the most common diseases that affect this plant is root rot. Root rot is a fungal infection that can cause the roots of the plant to become soft, black, and rotten. This disease is usually caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. To prevent root rot, it is essential to provide adequate drainage and avoid overwatering.
Another common disease that can affect Neoboivinella kilimandscharica (G.M.Schulze) Aubrév. & Pellegr. is leaf spot. Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots to appear on the leaves of the plant. This disease is usually caused by high humidity, poor air circulation, and overwatering. To prevent leaf spot, it is essential to ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering.
To manage these diseases, it is essential to remove the affected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly. If the disease is severe, it may be necessary to use a fungicide to control the spread of the disease. It is recommended to consult with a plant specialist or professional before using any fungicides.
Pest Management:
Neoboivinella kilimandscharica (G.M.Schulze) Aubrév. & Pellegr. can also attract several pests. One of the most common pests is the scale insect. Scale insects are small, round insects that can attach themselves to the stems and leaves of the plant. They can cause yellowing of the leaves and a sticky substance on the plant's surface. To manage scale insects, it is essential to remove them by hand or with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Another common pest that can affect this plant is spider mites. Spider mites are small, spider-like insects that can cause yellowing and browning of leaves. They thrive in hot and dry conditions. To control spider mites, it is recommended to use a strong jet of water to hose down the plant. If the infestation is severe, it may be necessary to use an insecticidal soap or oil to control the spread of the pest. However, it is crucial to consult with a plant specialist or professional before using any insecticidal soaps or oils.
