Origin and Common Names
Ouratea goossensii De Wild., also known as Sumbawa Tea, is a plant species that is endemic to the Indonesian island of Sumbawa. It belongs to the Ochnaceae family and is commonly grown in other parts of Indonesia and in the Philippines as an ornamental plant.
General Appearance
Ouratea goossensii De Wild. is a small evergreen tree that can reach up to 10 meters in height. Its leaves are glossy green, simple, elliptical in shape, and can grow up to 16 cm long and 7 cm wide. The plant produces small yellow flowers that are about 3 cm in diameter and develop into round fruits that are about 2 cm in diameter and ripen to yellow or red when mature.
Uses
The leaves and stems of Ouratea goossensii De Wild. contain several alkaloids and flavonoids, which have been found to have medicinal properties. The plant is traditionally used by the locals in Sumbawa to treat fever, malaria, and other illnesses. The bark and roots are also used to produce a red dye. Aside from its medicinal uses, the plant is also grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive glossy foliage and bright yellow flowers.
However, despite its potential medicinal and ornamental uses, Ouratea goossensii De Wild. is currently listed as a vulnerable species due to habitat loss and overexploitation of its bark and leaves for medicinal purposes. Conservation efforts are required to protect this valuable species.
Growth Conditions for Ouratea goossensii De Wild.
Ouratea goossensii De Wild. is a tropical plant species that requires specific growth conditions to thrive and achieve optimal growth. Below are the main growth conditions that are typical for this plant species:
Light Requirements
Ouratea goossensii De Wild. requires bright, indirect light to grow well. It does not tolerate direct sunlight, which can cause leaf scorching and other damage. This plant prefers to be placed in a location that receives partial shade or dappled light. A location near a north-facing window or under the canopy of a tree is ideal.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Ouratea goossensii De Wild. is between 21°C to 26°C (70°F to 80°F). This plant prefers warm and humid conditions, so it should be kept away from cold drafts or air conditioning vents. The lowest temperature that this plant can tolerate is around 10°C (50°F); any exposure to below-freezing temperatures can be fatal.
Soil Requirements
Ouratea goossensii De Wild. prefers well-draining and nutrient-rich soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. The soil should be able to hold some moisture without becoming waterlogged. A good potting mix for this plant can be made by combining equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and pine bark. This plant can also be grown in a soilless mix, such as coco coir or sphagnum moss.
Water Requirements
This plant requires consistent moisture to thrive but does not tolerate waterlogged soil. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings, but it should not be bone-dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues, so it is important to monitor the soil moisture level carefully. This plant also benefits from occasional misting to increase humidity levels.
Fertilizer Requirements
Ouratea goossensii De Wild. benefits from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and development. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer that is formulated for houseplants, and apply it every two weeks during the growing season. During the winter months, fertilization can be reduced to once a month or suspended altogether.
Cultivation of Ouratea goossensii De Wild.
Ouratea goossensii De Wild. is a shrub that is native to Africa. To cultivate this plant, ensure that it is grown in well-drained soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. It does well in areas with partial sun to full shade, so plant it in a spot that receives adequate sunlight but is shielded from harsh direct sunlight.
Watering Needs of Ouratea goossensii De Wild.
This plant is very particular about its watering needs. It requires a consistent water supply to thrive, but be careful not to overwater it. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to die. Water your plant regularly but avoid making the soil waterlogged by ensuring that the soil drains well.
Fertilization of Ouratea goossensii De Wild.
To ensure that your Ouratea goossensii De Wild. blooms beautifully, fertilize it weekly during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. Alternatively, you can use a slow-release fertilizer every three months. Avoid fertilizing your plant during the dormant season.
Pruning Ouratea goossensii De Wild.
Pruning should be done regularly to maintain the shape of the plant. It is best done during the dormant season, that is, after the flowering period. You can trim any dead or unhealthy branches and remove the faded flowers to improve air circulation. You can also prune the top of the plant to ensure it retains a bushy appearance.
Propagation of Ouratea goossensii De Wild
Ouratea goossensii De Wild. is a tropical evergreen tree commonly found in Central and West Africa. It produces yellow flowers with five petals and small black fruits with edible pulp. The propagation of Ouratea goossensii De Wild. can be done through seeds, cuttings, and air layering.
Propagation through seeds
The propagation of Ouratea goossensii De Wild. through seeds is easy and preferred by many gardeners. The seeds can be collected from the ripe fruits of the plant. The seeds should be cleaned and soaked in warm water for about 24 hours. This process helps to soften the seed coat, making it easier for the seed to germinate. The seeds can then be sown in a pot with well-draining soil, covered lightly with soil and kept moist. The pot should be kept in a warm location with indirect sunlight. Germination usually occurs within two to three weeks.
Propagation through cuttings
Propagation of Ouratea goossensii De Wild. through cuttings involves taking stem cuttings from the plant. The cuttings should be taken during the plant's active growing season, usually in the summer months. The cuttings should be about 6 to 8 inches long with a few leaves at the top. The leaves at the lower end of the cutting should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cuttings can be planted in a well-draining soil mixture and kept in a warm, moist location with indirect sunlight. Within a few weeks, roots should develop, and the plant should start to grow.
Propagation through air layering
Air layering is another method of propagating Ouratea goossensii De Wild. This process involves making a cut in a branch of the plant and wrapping it in moist sphagnum moss. A plastic wrap should be placed around the moss to keep it moist. Within a few weeks, roots should develop within the moss, and the stem can be cut off the parent plant and planted in a pot with well-draining soil. This method ensures that the plant will have a well-established root system, and it can start growing immediately.
Overall, Ouratea goossensii De Wild. is a low-maintenance plant that can be easily propagated through seeds, cuttings, and air layering. With the appropriate care, this plant can be a beautiful addition to any garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Ouratea goossensii De Wild.
Ouratea goossensii De Wild. is an ornamental tree that is native to tropical Africa. While this tree is generally healthy and robust, it can still be affected by disease and pest infestation. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that may affect this plant and some ways to manage them:
Diseases
Anthracnose - This fungal disease can cause dark spots on the leaves, stems, and fruit of the plant. To manage it, remove any infected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly. Fungicides can also be used to prevent further spread.
Leaf spot - This is another fungal disease that can cause circular brown spots on the leaves. Pruning the infected leaves and branches can be helpful, and fungicides can also be used to prevent further infection.
Pests
Spider mites - These tiny pests can infest the leaves, causing them to yellow and drop off. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to knock them off, or use insecticidal soap or an insecticide labeled for spider mites.
Caterpillars - These pests can strip the leaves and cause significant damage. Handpicking caterpillars off the plant and destroying them can be effective, as can using insecticidal spray or dust.
Scale insects - These pests suck sap from the plant, causing yellow or stunted growth. To manage scale insects, use a soft brush or cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove them from the plant. Insecticidal soap can also be effective.
Regularly inspecting the plant for signs of disease or pest infestation and taking prompt action can help keep the Ouratea goossensii De Wild. healthy and thriving. Remember to always follow the instructions on any chemical treatments and wear protective gear when necessary.
