Description of Pavetta abyssinica Fresen. subsp. viridiflora Bridson
Pavetta abyssinica Fresen. subsp. viridiflora Bridson, commonly known as green-flowered pavetta, is a shrub or small tree native to sub-Saharan Africa, including Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. It belongs to the Rubiaceae family, which is the fourth largest flowering plant family.
General Appearance
The plant can grow up to 5 meters tall. Its leaves are simple, opposite, and elliptic to ovate in shape, ranging from 5 to 20 cm long and 2 to 6 cm wide. The bark is smooth and grayish-brown, and the twigs are covered in velvety hairs. The flowers are small, green, and arranged in a dense cluster at the end of the branches, with a diameter of about 5 mm.
Common Names
The plant is known by various common names, including green-flowered pavetta, African pavetta, and mukoma in Swahili. The plant is also referred to as 'umqokolo' in the Zulu language.
Uses of Pavetta abyssinica Fresen. subsp. viridiflora Bridson
Pavetta abyssinica Fresen. subsp. viridiflora Bridson is used in traditional medicine for various purposes. The roots and bark of the plant are used to treat malaria and fever. The leaves are used to relieve stomach disorders, such as diarrhea, dysentery, and stomach pains. The plant also has potential uses in skincare, as it contains compounds that have shown anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
In addition to its medicinal uses, the plant is also used as an ornamental plant and planted as a shade tree beside areas with water. The plant is easy to cultivate and can adapt to a range of environmental conditions. As a result, it is often used in reforestation and land restoration projects.
Growth conditions for Pavetta abyssinica Fresen. subsp. viridiflora Bridson
Pavetta abyssinica Fresen. subsp. viridiflora Bridson, commonly referred to as the green-flowered Brides bush, is a perennial shrub native to Africa. This plant is known for its green, glossy foliage and small green flowers with pinkish-red bases.
Light requirements
The green-flowered Brides bush thrives in partially shaded to fully shaded areas. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much sun can damage the leaves and stunt growth. Therefore, it is best to place the plant in an area that receives partial shade throughout the day.
Temperature requirements
Pavetta abyssinica Fresen. subsp. viridiflora Bridson prefers warm temperatures between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The plant can tolerate cooler temperatures but may suffer from stunted growth. Therefore, it is important to keep this plant in a warm location at all times.
Soil requirements
The green-flowered Brides bush grows best in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter, and it should be able to retain enough moisture to keep the plant hydrated without causing waterlogging. Adding organic mulch around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and prevent weed growth.
In summary, the green-flowered Brides bush grows best in partially shaded to fully shaded areas with warm temperatures and well-draining soil. With the proper growth conditions, this plant can thrive and add a beautiful touch to any garden or landscape.
Cultivation methods:
Pavetta abyssinica Fresen. subsp. viridiflora Bridson is a subshrub that can grow up to 2 meters, and it is native to East Africa. It prefers a semi-shaded or shaded position with well-drained soil. It can be propagated from seed or cuttings. Seed propagation is done during spring or summer, and cuttings can be taken any time of year, although rooting can be slow.
Watering needs:
The plant tolerates a wide range of moisture levels, but it prefers evenly moist soil. It should be watered deeply at least once a week during the warm season. The frequency of watering can be reduced during the cooler months, but the soil should not be allowed to dry out completely. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it is essential to ensure that the soil has proper drainage.
Fertilization:
Pavetta abyssinica Fresen. subsp. viridiflora Bridson benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced soluble fertilizer applied every two weeks will promote healthy growth. Alternatively, slow-release granular fertilizer can also be added to the soil. Avoid applying fertilizer during the dormant season.
Pruning:
The plant needs minimal pruning and should only be done to control its size or to remove dead or damaged branches. It is best to trim the plant during the dormant season before new growth begins. Pruning during the growing season may affect its blooming. Pruning should be done with sharp and clean pruning shears to prevent damaging the plant.
Propagation of Pavetta abyssinica Fresen. subsp. viridiflora Bridson
Pavetta abyssinica Fresen. subsp. viridiflora Bridson is commonly propagated through seeds. The seeds are collected from the matured fruits of the plant. It is important to select the fruits that are fully matured and have reached their optimal size.
After harvesting, the fruits are washed to remove any impurities and dried in a cool, shaded place for a few days. When the fruits are completely dry, they are cracked open to reveal the seeds. These seeds are then stored in a dry and cool place until they are ready for planting.
Before sowing, the seeds are pre-treated to enhance their germination. Scarification, soaking and stratification are some of the pre-treatment methods commonly used. Scarification involves breaking the seed coat to allow water and air to penetrate, while soaking involves immersing the seeds in water to soften the coat. Stratification is placing the seeds in a moist and cold environment to simulate winter conditions.
The planted seeds require a well-draining soil mix and to be watered frequently but not excessively. Germination usually takes between 2 to 4 weeks. When the seedlings have grown 2 to 3 leaves, they can be transplanted to larger containers or planted directly into the ground.
In addition to seed propagation, Pavetta abyssinica Fresen. subsp. viridiflora Bridson can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer to early autumn tend to have a higher success rate. The cuttings should be about 10cm long and should have 2 to 3 nodes. They can be either planted directly into a well-draining soil mix or rooted in water.
Propagation through air layering is another method that can be used. This method involves creating a wound or notch in the stem of a mature plant and then covering the area with a medium such as sphagnum moss or soil mix. When roots have formed, the new plantlet can be separated from the mother plant and planted in a separate container.
Disease Management
Pavetta abyssinica Fresen. subsp. viridiflora Bridson can be affected by a number of diseases, including:
- Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by fungi and results in small, circular spots on the leaves. These spots may appear yellow or brown and can cause leaf drop. To manage leaf spot, avoid overhead watering and remove infected leaves and debris from the ground.
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew presents as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems. It is caused by fungi and can lead to reduced vigor and wilted leaves. To manage powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and treat with fungicide if necessary.
- Root Rot: This fungal disease attacks the roots of the plant, causing them to become brown and mushy. The plant may appear wilted and may die if left untreated. To manage root rot, ensure that the plant is well-drained and avoid over-watering. Fungicide may also be necessary.
Pest Management
Pavetta abyssinica Fresen. subsp. viridiflora Bridson may also be attacked by a range of pests, including:
- Aphids: Aphids are tiny, pear-shaped insects that may appear in large numbers on the leaves and stems. They suck the sap from the plant and can cause wilting and leaf drop. To manage aphids, spray the plant with water to dislodge them or use an insecticidal soap.
- Spider Mites: These tiny mites may be difficult to see without a magnifying glass. They cause the leaves to appear stippled and may cause them to turn yellow or brown. To manage spider mites, increase humidity around the plant and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Whiteflies: Whiteflies are tiny, white insects that can swarm around the plant when it is disturbed. They suck the sap from the plant, causing wilting and leaf drop. To manage whiteflies, use yellow sticky traps or treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
