Origin and Common Names
Pausinystalia lane-poolei (Hutch.) Hutch. ex Lane-Poole subsp. lane-poolei, also known as Lane-Poole's glory-bush, is a plant native to the tropical rainforests of West and Central Africa. It is commonly found in Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, Congo, and the Central African Republic. In Nigeria, the plant is referred to as 'weza' by the local communities, while in Gabon and Congo it is commonly known as 'lierre brossant'.Appearance
The Lane-Poole's glory-bush is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 15 meters in height. It has smooth, greyish-brown bark and glossy green leaves that are elliptic in shape. The leaves are approximately 10-18 cm long and 4-7 cm wide. The plant produces clusters of flowers that are bell-shaped and white to pinkish in color. The fruit is a reddish-brown capsule, which contains seeds that are dispersed by wind.Uses
The Lane-Poole's glory-bush has several medicinal uses, especially in traditional African medicine. The bark and leaves contain alkaloids and tannins, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antipyretic properties. Decoctions and infusions made from the plant are used to treat a range of conditions, including fever, malaria, dysentery, and diarrhea. In addition to its medicinal uses, the Lane-Poole's glory-bush is also used for its wood. The timber is hard and durable, making it suitable for furniture, construction, and tool handles. The plant is also used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive leaves and flowers.Light Requirements
Pausinystalia lane-poolei (Hutch.) Hutch. ex Lane-Poole subsp. lane-poolei is a moderate shade-tolerant plant, which means it grows best under partial shade rather than full sun. It needs diffused light that falls between 50-70% to grow optimally.
Temperature Conditions
Pausinystalia lane-poolei (Hutch.) Hutch. ex Lane-Poole subsp. lane-poolei is native to the tropical rainforests of West and Central Africa, which indicates that it grows well under warm temperature ranges. Its growth ranges between 20°C to 30°C and requires a humidity range suitable for tropical rainforests.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows well in well-drained, loamy soils that are rich in organic matter. Its soil pH requirement ranges between 4.5-6.5 with a preference for an acidic soil. Pausinystalia lane-poolei (Hutch.) Hutch. ex Lane-Poole subsp. lane-poolei cannot grow well in waterlogged or heavy clay soils because they hinder its root development and moisture absorption. Therefore, the plant requires regular watering and a consistent application of nutrients to thrive.
Cultivation Methods
Pausinystalia lane-poolei is a tree that grows well in warm, humid climates and it thrives well in shade or partial shade. It grows best in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. When planting, ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. A spacing of at least 3 meters should be maintained between the trees to prevent overcrowding.Watering Needs
As a rule of thumb, newly planted Pausinystalia lane-poolei trees should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist. However, after the first year, the tree requires less frequent watering. The amount of water required will depend on the soil type, temperature, and rainfall amounts. In general, it is advisable to water the plant at least once a week, especially during prolonged dry spells. Conversely, the plant is sensitive to over-watering, and its root system can quickly develop fungal infections if the soil is waterlogged.Fertilization
Applying fertilizer is essential for the growth and development of Pausinystalia lane-poolei trees. A balanced slow-release fertilizer with supplementary trace elements should be applied every six months. The best time to apply the fertilizer is during the rainy season. Alternatively, you can use organic compost when planting or top-dress the tree with compost every year.Pruning
Pausinystalia lane-poolei requires minimal pruning as it is a slow grower. However, it is essential to get rid of dead or diseased branches regularly. Also, pruning can be used to control the tree's height and shape. Pruning should be done during the dry season, and any cuts should be treated with a suitable fungicide to prevent infections. Additionally, avoid pruning the trees during flowering to avoid interrupting the flowering cycle.Propagation of Pausinystalia lane-poolei
Pausinystalia lane-poolei (Hutch.) Hutch. ex Lane-Poole subsp. lane-poolei, commonly known as the Lane-Poole's False Coffee, is a small tree native to the coastal forests of east Africa. It is known for its medicinal properties and is used to treat coughs, fever, and diarrhea. The tree can be propagated through various methods that include seeds, stem cuttings, and grafting.
Propagation by Seeds
Pausinystalia lane-poolei is propagated by seeds that are collected from mature fruits. The seeds are then stored in a dry and cool place until sowing time. To enhance their germination, the seeds can be soaked in water or in a hormone solution. The seeds are then sowed in a nursery bed that has fertile and well-drained soil. They are covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist by watering regularly. The seedlings should germinate within a few weeks and can be transplanted to their permanent position after six months.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Pausinystalia lane-poolei can also be propagated by stem cuttings. The cuttings are obtained from mature trees during the dormant season. The cuttings should be about 20 cm long and should have at least two nodes. The leaves on the lower nodes are removed, and the cutting is dipped in a rooting hormone solution. The cuttings are then planted in a pot or nursery bed filled with fertile and well-drained soil. The cuttings should be kept in a warm and humid place with filtered sunlight until rooted, which should take about 4-6 weeks. The rooted cuttings can be transplanted to their permanent position after six months.
Propagation by Grafting
Pausinystalia lane-poolei can also be propagated by grafting. The scion wood is collected from mature trees and grafted onto a rootstock of a related species. The scion wood should be selected from healthy and disease-free trees, and the rootstock should be selected for its compatibility and vigor. The grafting is done during the dormant season, and the grafted trees are kept in a warm and humid place until they begin to grow. The grafted trees can be transplanted to their permanent position after six months.
Disease Management
One of the common diseases that affect Pausinystalia lane-poolei is root rot. This disease is caused by fungus, and it thrives in excessively damp soil. To manage root rot, ensure that the soil is well-drained, and the roots are not submerged in water. Another disease that affects the plant is leaf spot. Leaf spot is caused by a fungus that leaves small brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering.
Pest Management
The most common pest that attacks Pausinystalia lane-poolei is the whitefly. Whiteflies suck the sap out of the leaves, causing the leaves to turn yellow and curl up. To control whiteflies, use insecticidal soap, which is harmless to humans and pets. Spider mites are also common pests that attack the plant. They cause the leaves to yellow and develop tiny yellow or white spots. To manage spider mites, use neem oil, which is a natural insecticide. Another pest that might attack the plant is scale insects. Scale insects suck the sap out of the plant, causing the leaves to wilt and eventually fall off. To manage scale insects, wipe the leaves with a soft cloth dipped in alcohol.
