Overview
Opilia campestris Engl. var. campestris is a species of flowering plant in the family Opiliaceae. It is a small shrub that is native to several African countries including Congo, Cameroon, Gabon, and Nigeria, and is commonly known as the African whitewood.
Appearance
The Opilia campestris Engl. var. campestris shrub can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It has a smooth bark and flattened twigs that are green when young but turn light brown in maturity. The leaves are elliptical and alternately arranged on the stem, with a length of 5-15 cm long and 2.5-7 cm wide. The flowers of the African whitewood are small and yellow, and they bloom in clusters from December to January.
Uses
The bark of the Opilia campestris Engl. var. campestris shrub has been traditionally used to treat various illnesses such as malaria, fever, and respiratory problems. The stem and roots have also been used by traditional healers to treat snakebites. Additionally, the African whitewood's bark has been used in the production of dyes and tannin for leather products. Its leaves and twigs have also been used as fodder.
In recent years, Opilia campestris Engl. var. campestris has drawn interest from researchers as it contains compounds that have shown potential in treating cancer and inflammation. The plant has also been studied for its antioxidant properties, which may indicate possible uses in the skincare industry.
Light Requirements:
Opilia campestris var. campestris requires a lot of sunlight to grow well. It grows best when exposed to full sunlight, but it can also tolerate partial shade. Lack of proper lighting may hinder its growth and reduce the quality of its leaves.
Temperature:
The plant is known to grow well in tropical to subtropical climates, where it can tolerate high temperatures. The optimal temperature range for its growth is between 20°C and 30°C. The plant cannot tolerate temperatures below 5°C, and frost can kill it.
Soil requirements:
Opilia campestris var. campestris prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil should be fertile and slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. The plant has low tolerance for saline soils and can suffer from stunted growth, wilt, and even death if planted in such soils.
Cultivation
Opilia campestris Engl. var. campestris is best cultivated in sandy or rocky soils that are well-draining. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. When planted in full sun, the foliage will be more colorful, and flowering will be more profuse. However, when planted in partial shade, the foliage will be a darker green. Before planting, work the soil deeply to help the roots penetrate the soil easily.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering during the growing season, but it's advisable to avoid overwatering since it can cause root rot. Water the plant whenever the soil feels dry but do not water if the soil is still moist. During winter, watering needs vary depending on how warm or cold your region is. If the temperatures are high, water moderately, but if it's cold, reduce watering.
Fertilization
Opilia campestris Engl. var. campestris will benefit from the application of fertilizer during the growing season. Use a slow-release, granular fertilizer at the beginning of spring. Alternatively, you can use a water-soluble fertilizer diluted to a quarter of the manufacturer's recommended strength every two weeks to keep the plant healthy and vigorous.
Pruning
The plant responds well to pruning, which helps to promote bushier growth and more profuse flowering. Prune it when it is dormant, which is usually in late winter or early spring. Remove the dead and diseased wood, as well as any weak or crossing branches. Ideally, aim to maintain its natural shape and form while getting rid of any unwanted growth.
Propagation of Opilia Campestris Engl. var. Campestris
Opilia Campestris Engl. var. Campestris can be propagated via seeds or cuttings.
Propagation via Seeds
The seeds of Opilia Campestris Engl. var. Campestris are usually harvested in the months of November to December. The collected seeds are then cleaned to remove any unwanted debris. The cleaned seeds are then sown into nursery beds or directly into pots containing a well-draining potting mix. The seeds should not be buried too deep in the soil, as they require light to germinate. The pots or nursery beds must be kept moist but not waterlogged. Germination usually occurs between two to three weeks after sowing. Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, they can be transplanted into larger pots.
Propagation via Cuttings
The cuttings of Opilia Campestris Engl. var. Campestris are usually taken in the months of October to December. The selected cuttings should be approximately 10-15 cm in length and should be taken from healthy and disease-free plants. The cuttings should be made using a sharp and sterilized blade. The lower leaves of the cutting should be removed, leaving only a few leaves at the top. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone powder and then inserted into a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings should be watered and kept in a humid environment. After two to three weeks, the cuttings will start to develop roots. Once the roots have developed, the cuttings can be transplanted into larger pots.
Disease Management
The plant Opilia campestris Engl. var. campestris is susceptible to various diseases that can affect its overall growth and productivity. Some of the common diseases that can affect this plant include:
- Leaf spot disease: This disease is caused by the fungal pathogen, Cercospora sp. It results in the formation of brown spots on the leaves, which eventually turn yellow and drop off. To manage this disease, affected leaves should be removed immediately and destroyed. Apply a fungicide to protect the remaining foliage.
- Blister rust: This is a fungal disease caused by Cronartium ribicola. It produces yellow-orange blisters on the plant's leaves, stems, and buds. To manage blister rust, prune infected branches and apply a fungicide to protect the remaining parts.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by a soil-borne fungal pathogen, Phytophthora sp. It results in the rotting of the plant's roots, which affects its overall growth, and productivity. Remove affected plants, avoid planting in waterlogged soils, and ensure proper drainage to minimize the chances of this disease.
Pest Management
Opilia campestris Engl. var. campestris is also susceptible to different pest infestations, including:
- Aphids: These are tiny insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves, resulting in their yellowing and curling. To manage aphids, use insecticides or neem oil. Encourage natural enemies like ladybugs to control the aphid population.
- Mealybugs: These pests leave a white, waxy residue on the plant's leaves and stems. They also cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. To manage mealybugs, use insecticides or neem oil. Prune affected parts and destroy them to avoid further infestations.
- Spider mites: These are tiny pests that mostly affect plants grown in hot and dry conditions. They cause yellowing and curling of the leaves, and also produce a fine webbing on the affected parts. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Increase air humidity to discourage their growth.
