Introduction
Oxyanthus setosus Keay belongs to the family Rubiaceae and is an endemic plant to Cameroon, located in the western part of Central Africa. It is popularly known as "Cape Mount Forest coffee" and "Cameroon Mountain coffee" due to its coffee-like seeds that are widely used by the forest dwellers of Cameroon as a source of caffeine.General Appearance
Oxyanthus setosus Keay is a small tree that grows up to a height of 6 meters with dark green, shiny leaves that are arranged in whorls of four. The leaves are oval-shaped, about 6 cm long and 3 cm wide, and have pointed tips and smooth margins. The branches of the tree are hairy and the stem is woody and rough. It bears flowers that are pinkish in color and are arranged in small clusters.Common names
Oxyanthus setosus Keay is commonly known as Cape Mount Forest coffee or Cameroon Mountain coffee. The indigenous people of Cameroon have other local names for this plant such as “Faki” in Bafanji and “Ashuh” in Pidgin.Uses
The seeds of Oxyanthus setosus Keay are used as a substitute for coffee by the people of Cameroon. The seeds are roasted, powdered, and brewed to make a coffee-like drink that is rich in caffeine. The seeds also have medicinal properties and are used to treat headache, fever, and malaria. The bark and leaves of the tree are used to make traditional medicine for various ailments. The plant is also used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive appearance.Light Requirements
Oxyanthus setosus Keay generally requires bright, indirect light. It can also tolerate some shade, but it is recommended to avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves. This plant can be grown indoors near a window that receives filtered light or under fluorescent lights for at least 12 hours per day.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Oxyanthus setosus Keay is between 18°C to 27°C. It is important to protect the plant from extreme temperature changes and drafts. During the winter, it is recommended to move the plant away from cold windows or doors that may cause temperature fluctuations.
Soil Requirements
Oxyanthus setosus Keay requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. The plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.0. A good quality potting mix that is suitable for tropical plants can be used.
Cultivation Methods
Oxyanthus setosus Keay is a relatively easy plant to grow, provided that it is given appropriate growing conditions. Ideally, the plant should be grown indoors in a warm and humid environment. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and acidic in nature. A mix of sand, peat moss, and perlite works well for this plant. It should be planted in a pot that is at least six inches deep with drainage holes. Oxyanthus setosus Keay can also be grown outside in a tropical climate with similar soil and light requirements.
Watering Needs
The Oxyanthus setosus Keay plant requires adequate moisture to grow healthily. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. It is best to water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot and should be avoided. The plant should not be allowed to dry out as this may cause leaf drop.
Fertilization
Fertilization is crucial for the growth and overall health of Oxyanthus setosus Keay. It is recommended to feed the plant with 1/2 strength, balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. During winter, the frequency of fertilization should be reduced to once a month. Overfeeding the plant can lead to leaf tip burn or even death.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and size of Oxyanthus setosus Keay and also to promote flowering. Pruning should be done in spring before new growth appears. The plant can be cut back by a third to half of its size. Any dead, diseased, or damaged foliage should be removed entirely. A clean and sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears should be used for pruning. The plant responds well to pruning and can produce new growth and flowers in just a few weeks.
Propagation of Oxyanthus setosus Keay
Oxyanthus setosus Keay is a semi-woody shrub that can be propagated through various methods. The following are the most common propagation methods used for this plant:
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Oxyanthus setosus Keay through seeds is possible, although it is a slow process. Seeds can be collected from mature plants and sown in well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist throughout the germination process. The optimal temperature for germination is between 20-22 °C. After germination, the seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation through cuttings is another effective method for Oxyanthus setosus Keay. Cuttings can be taken from the tip of the stem, with at least one or two leaves attached to it. The cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be kept in a warm, humid, and shaded environment. The roots will start to develop in 2-3 weeks, and the cutting can be transplanted to its permanent location after 3-4 months.
Division Propagation
Propagation through division is also possible for Oxyanthus setosus Keay. The plant should be carefully dug out, and the root system can be divided into smaller segments. Each segment should have a few stems and a healthy root system. The divided segments can be planted in well-draining soil mix and kept moist until the roots establish. It is recommended to do division propagation during the spring season.
Air-layering Propagation
Air-layering is a propagation technique where a stem is partially damaged and covered with moss to promote root growth. It is a slow process, but it can be effective in propagating hard-to-root plants like Oxyanthus setosus Keay. This method involves making a 2-3 cm wound in the stem, and then covering it with rooting hormone and moist moss. Once the roots have developed, the stem can be cut below the rooted area and transplanted to its permanent location.
Overall, Oxyanthus setosus Keay can be propagated through various methods, including seed propagation, cuttings propagation, division propagation, and air-layering propagation. The choice of propagation method depends on the availability of resources, the growth habit of the plant, and the desired number of new plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxyanthus Setosus Keay
Oxyanthus setosus Keay, commonly known as the hairy oxyanthus, is a plant native to tropical Africa. Like any other plant, the hairy oxyanthus is susceptible to diseases and pests that can cause stunted growth, discoloration, leaf loss, and death. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
1. Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that causes dark spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, remove any affected leaves immediately and dispose of them. Avoid overhead watering, and water at the base of the plant to keep the leaves dry as much as possible. Apply a copper fungicide as a preventative measure.
2. Anthracnose: This is another fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage this disease, prune and dispose of any affected plant parts, especially if it is severe. Avoid overhead watering, and apply a copper fungicide to prevent and manage the disease.
3. Root Rot: This is a disease caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil, leading to the decay of roots. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering, improve soil drainage, and allow the soil to dry before watering again. Apply a fungicide to the soil according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Pests
1. Spider mites: These are tiny pests that thrive in hot and dry conditions, causing discoloration and webbing on the leaves. To manage them, increase humidity around the plant by misting the leaves or placing a tray of water near the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to eradicate the mites.
2. Mealybugs: These are pests that affect the growing tips, stems, and leaf axils, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage them, isolate the affected plant and prune off affected parts. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to eradicate the bugs.
3. Scale insects: These are pests that form small bumps on the leaves and stems, sucking out sap and causing a yellow and sticky residue. To manage them, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove the insects, or apply insecticidal soap, neem oil, or a horticultural oil, according to the manufacturer's instructions.
By prioritizing good cultural practices, such as proper watering, drainage, and fertilization, and keeping an eye out for any signs of diseases and pests, you can ensure that your Oxyanthus setosus Keay will thrive, grow and look beautiful.
