Overview
Pleiotaxis welwitschii S.Moore is a rare plant species from the family Rubiaceae. It is native to Angola in Africa and is known for its unique appearance and potential medicinal properties.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as the Angola coffee, Angola rubiaceae, and Angola capeba, among other names.
Appearance
The Pleiotaxis welwitschii S.Moore plant is a low-growing shrub that typically grows up to 1.5 meters high. It has glossy leaves that are 6-12 cm long and can be elliptical or oval in shape. The stem of the plant is green, and it produces small white flowers that have a fragrant scent.
Uses
The plant has traditional medicinal uses in Angola for treating a range of ailments such as fever, hypertension, and stomach problems. The plant is also cultivated for its coffee-like berries, although it's not clear if it produces caffeine. Additionally, the plant's leaves have been used to produce a red dye.
Today, the plant is still being studied for its potential medicinal uses and its potential as a crop for local communities. However, the plant's rarity and habitat loss threaten its existence, and it is currently listed as vulnerable in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Light requirements
The plant Pleiotaxis welwitschii S.Moore primarily grows in areas with bright light that filter through the trees. It needs access to sunlight for a minimum of 4-6 hours each day to grow optimally.
Temperature requirements
As a tropical plant, Pleiotaxis welwitschii S.Moore requires a warm environment to grow properly. It thrives in areas with warm temperatures, which range from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius during the daytime and 18 to 22 degrees Celsius during the night.
Soil requirements
The soil requirements for Pleiotaxis welwitschii S.Moore are not very complex. It can grow well in several soil types, such as loamy, sandy, and clay soils. However, it prefers soils that are acidic with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil must be rich in organic matter and must have good drainage, as stagnant water can cause root rot and other problems for the plant.
Cultivation methods
Pleiotaxis welwitschii S.Moore, also known as the "Sandpaper Tree," is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to cultivate. It prefers well-draining soil and a sunny location, but it can also tolerate partial shade. Plant the seedlings in late spring, and make sure to give them enough space to grow.
Watering needs
The Sandpaper Tree requires regular watering during the growing season, especially during the hot summer months. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply rather than frequently, and avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize your Pleiotaxis welwitschii S.Moore with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. You can use a slow-release granular fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the label closely and avoid overfertilizing, as it can burn the roots of the plant.
Pruning
Pleiotaxis welwitschii S.Moore is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal pruning. However, if it becomes too large or straggly, you can prune it in late winter or early spring before the new growth appears. Remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as any crossed or rubbing branches. Use sterilized pruning shears and make clean cuts.
Propagation of Pleiotaxis welwitschii S.Moore
Pleiotaxis welwitschii S.Moore, commonly known as the corkwood tree, can be propagated through different methods:
Seed Propagation
One of the easiest ways to propagate corkwood tree is through seeds. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix, lightly covering them with the soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm spot with indirect sunlight. Seeds typically germinate within two to four weeks.
Cutting Propagation
Pleiotaxis welwitschii S.Moore can also be propagated through cuttings. Take cuttings from new growth in the early spring or summer. Use a clean, sharp knife to cut a 6-inch stem from the plant. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem and dip it in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining soil and keep it moist. Roots should form within a month or two.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another way to propagate corkwood tree. Choose a healthy stem and make a 1-inch cut on it. Apply rooting hormone powder on the cut area and pack it with wet sphagnum moss. Cover the moss with plastic wrap and secure it with twine or rubber bands. The roots should form in about 6 weeks. Once the roots are long enough, cut the stem below the moss and plant it in a pot filled with well-draining soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Pleiotaxis welwitschii S.Moore
Pleiotaxis welwitschii S.Moore is a rare and unique plant species, and its care requires proper attention to disease and pest management. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect the plant and suggest ways to manage them.
Diseases
Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. Symptoms are wilting, yellowing, and eventually blackening of leaves. To manage root rot, remove the infected plant from the soil, remove all the infected roots, let it dry and repot the plant in well-draining soil.
Fungal Leaf Spots: This disease is caused by fungal infection and appears as brown or black spots on leaves. To manage this disease, remove all the infected leaves and provide adequate air circulation to prevent further infection. You may use a fungicide as well, but it's recommended to try natural methods first, as the plant is rare and delicate, and the use of chemicals may cause more harm than good.
Bacterial Blight: This disease appears as a soft, watery rot on stems and leaves and can quickly spread throughout the plant. To manage bacterial blight, remove all the infected leaves and stems and dispose of them properly. You may also use copper-based fungicides, but avoid spraying during the day to prevent burning of the plant.
Pest Management:
Mites: These pests are tiny and can easily go unnoticed. They make tiny webs on leaves and suck the sap out of the plant leading to discoloration, wilting, and eventual death. To manage mites, you may use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ensure you cover the undersides of the leaves while spraying.
Mealybugs: These pests are white, cotton-like masses on the plant. They suck the sap out of the plant and weaken it. To manage mealybugs, you may use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them physically. Alternatively, you may introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings to feed on the mealybugs.
Scale insects: These pests appear as brown, hard, lumpy masses on stems and leaves. They suck the sap out of the plant, leading to discoloration, wilting, and eventually death. To manage scale insects, you may use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them physically. Alternatively, you may introduce natural predators such as ladybugs, lacewings or parasitic wasps to feed on the scale insects.
With proper care and attention to disease and pest management, Pleiotaxis welwitschii S.Moore can thrive and live a long and healthy life.
