Origin and Common Names
Oxyanthus pyriformis (Hochst.) Skeels subsp. tanganyikensis Bridson is a flowering plant species belonging to the family Rubiaceae. It is native to East Africa, specifically to the countries of Burundi, Tanzania, and Zambia. This subspecies is commonly referred to as the Tanganyika oxyanthus.Appearance
The Tanganyika oxyanthus is a small, evergreen shrub that grows up to 2 meters tall. The leaves of this plant are simple, opposite, and oval-shaped. They are dark green in color and measure about 6 centimeters in length. The flowers of the Tanganyika oxyanthus are small and white, and they grow in clusters at the tips of the branches. The fruit of the plant is a red to black berry that is roughly 7 millimeters in diameter.Uses
The Tanganyika oxyanthus is not a commonly cultivated plant, but it is valued for its medicinal properties. Extracts from the leaves and roots of this plant have been found to have antimicrobial, antispasmodic, and antidiarrheal effects. In traditional medicine, it has been used to treat a variety of ailments such as coughs, colds, fever, and gastrointestinal problems. The plant is also used for ornamental purposes due to its small size and attractive appearance.Light
The Oxyanthus pyriformis subsp. tanganyikensis prefers bright but indirect light. It can grow indoors near a window that provides filtered light or outside in partial shade. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves of the plant.
Temperature
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but prefers a warm and humid environment. The optimal temperature range for growth is between 20°C to 30°C. Temperatures below 10°C can be detrimental to the plant's growth.
Soil Requirements
The Oxyanthus pyriformis subsp. tanganyikensis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly acidic, with a range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can grow in sandy, loamy or clay soils. Regular fertilization can help promote healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods
Oxyanthus pyriformis (Hochst.) Skeels subsp. tanganyikensis Bridson is a plant that requires well-drained soil and bright but indirect light. It can be cultivated both indoors and outdoors, provided that it is placed in a suitable location.
When grown indoors, the plant needs to be placed near a bright window that gets plenty of indirect sunlight, and the temperature should be maintained between 60-75°F (15.5-24°C). If grown outdoors, the plant should be placed in a sheltered location to protect it from direct sunlight, wind, and extreme temperatures.
Watering Needs
Oxyanthus pyriformis (Hochst.) Skeels subsp. tanganyikensis Bridson is a plant that requires moderate watering. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as the roots can rot in waterlogged conditions. It is recommended to water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry.
During the winter months, the plant can be watered less frequently, as it goes into a dormant state and requires less water. Overwatering during this time can lead to root rot and other problems.
Fertilization
The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer. It is important to follow the directions on the label, as over-fertilizing can lead to salt buildup in the soil and damage the plant.
Fertilization is not necessary during the winter months, as the plant is in a dormant state and does not require as many nutrients.
Pruning
Oxyanthus pyriformis (Hochst.) Skeels subsp. tanganyikensis Bridson does not require much pruning. However, it is recommended to remove any yellow or dead leaves to prevent fungal infections and promote healthy growth.
If the plant becomes too tall or leggy, it can be pruned back in the late winter or early spring. It is recommended to cut the stems back by a third to promote bushier growth.
Propagation of Oxyanthus Pyriformis (Hochst.) Skeels subsp. Tanganyikensis Bridson
The plant Oxyanthus pyriformis (Hochst.) Skeels subsp. tanganyikensis Bridson, commonly known as the African eggplant, can be propagated through various methods such as seeds, stem cuttings, and layering. The following are its propagation methods:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Oxyanthus pyriformis can be sowed directly into the soil during spring or early summer when the temperature is between 20-25°C. The seeds should be sowed in well-drained soil, and the soil must be kept moist until the seedlings emerge. The seedlings should be kept in a partially shaded area until they reach a height of around 15 cm. Then they can be transplanted into pots or outdoor beds.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Oxyanthus pyriformis can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The stem cutting is taken from a healthy, mature plant, and it should have at least two nodes. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Then plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and place it in a partially shaded area. Water the soil regularly but avoid over-watering. The roots will develop within 3-4 weeks, and then the cutting can be transplanted into pots or outdoor beds.
Layering Propagation
Layering is another propagation method used for Oxyanthus pyriformis. The stem of the parent plant is bent down to the ground and covered with soil, leaving the tip exposed. The covered part of the stem will develop roots, and once the roots have developed sufficiently, it can be cut from the parent plant. The new plant can be transplanted to pots or outdoor beds.
Propagation of Oxyanthus pyriformis is relatively easy, and it can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings, and layering. Each part of the plant used for propagation has its advantages, but stem cuttings are considered the most effective method for this plant. With proper care, this plant can grow and bear fruit in 3-4 months.
Disease and Pest Management of Oxyanthus pyriformis subsp. tanganyikensis
Oxyanthus pyriformis subsp. tanganyikensis can fall susceptible to a range of pests and diseases. Proper management and care are critical to the plant's health and longevity. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Bacterial leaf spot: This disease is caused by the fungus Xanthomonas campestris. It causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves that eventually spread and merge, killing the plant's tissue. To manage the disease, remove the infected leaves and keep your plant dry. You can also use fungicides to control bacterial spot.
Root rot: Root rot is caused by several fungi that thrive in moist soil. It causes the plant to wilt and turn yellow or brown. Overwatering, poor drainage, and high humidity can cause root rot. To manage root rot, repot the plant in well-draining soil, trim off the infected roots and apply fungicide.
Fungal leaf spots: Oxyanthus pyriformis subsp. tanganyikensis can also fall prey to leaf spots caused by fungi such as Phyllosticta oxyanthi and Cercospora oxyanthi. Fungal leaf spots appear as small, round spots on the leaf's surface that eventually turn yellow or brown. To manage fungal leaf spots, remove the infected leaves and avoid splashing water on the plant's foliage. You can also apply fungicides to control the disease.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to wilt and curl. They also secrete honeydew, attracting other insects. To manage aphids, wash the plant regularly with water and insecticidal soap. You can also introduce natural predators, such as ladybugs, to control the aphid population.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that live on the plant's surface and suck sap from the leaves. They cause yellow spots and leave a web on the foliage, making the plant look unsightly. To manage spider mites, remove the infected leaves and wash the plant regularly with water. You can also apply insecticidal soap to control spider mites.
Scale insects: Scale insects suck on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to turn yellow and eventually fall off. They also produce sticky honeydew, which attracts ants and other insects. To manage scale insects, use a soft brush to remove them from the plant's surface and apply insecticidal soap. You can also introduce natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings to control the scale population.
Following the above disease and pest management strategies can help in maintaining the health and beauty of your Oxyanthus pyriformis subsp. tanganyikensis plant.
