Origin:
Psychotria articulata (Hiern) E.M.A.Petit is a plant species that belongs to the family Rubiaceae and is native to tropical Africa.
Common Names:
Psychotria articulata is commonly known as the "Jointed Psychotria", "Articulate Psychotria", "Break-axe", "Ayewn" and "Afifo".
Appearance:
Psychotria articulata is a small to medium-sized shrub that can grow up to 5 meters in height. It has glossy leaves with a pointed apex and can range in color from dark green to light green. The plant produces small white or yellow flowers that grow in groups, followed by red, edible fruits. What is unique about this plant is its "jointed" stems that have observable constrictions where the internodes meet, giving it a distinctive appearance.
Uses:
The plant has been traditionally used in African communities as a medicinal plant for treating a range of illnesses including gastrointestinal disorders, fever, and inflammation. The roots and leaves are boiled in water and the resulting decoction is ingested or used as a topical application. The fruit of Psychotria articulata is also edible and is added to local dishes for flavoring and nutritional value.
hereGrowth conditions of Psychotria articulata (Hiern) E.M.A.Petit
Psychotria articulata (Hiern) E.M.A.Petit, commonly known as Articulated Psychotria, is a species of flowering plant in the family Rubiaceae. It is native to Africa and thrives in warm, humid environments.
Light requirements
Psychotria articulata requires bright, filtered light but cannot withstand direct, intense sunlight. In its natural habitat, it grows under the canopy of taller trees, receiving dappled sunlight. Indoors, it should be placed near a window that filters sunlight, or behind a sheer curtain to provide partial shade.
Temperature requirements
The optimal temperature for growth of Psychotria articulata is between 20°C and 25°C. In temperatures below 15°C, the plant may experience leaf drop and growth retardation. On the other hand, in temperatures above 30°C, the plant may suffer from heat stress and leaf curling. Therefore, the plant should be kept in a warm and humid environment.
Soil requirements
Psychotria articulata prefers a well-draining, porous soil with abundant organic matter. A soil mix made up of peat, perlite, and vermiculite in equal proportions, with added sphagnum moss, provides the ideal conditions for the plant to grow. The soil pH should be between 5.5 and 6.5, slightly acidic. The plant requires frequent watering but cannot tolerate waterlogged conditions, which can cause root rot. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the pot has adequate drainage holes to allow excess water to drain.
Cultivation Method
Psychotria articulata is a tropical plant that is best grown in warm climates with average temperatures ranging from 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can be propagated through cuttings or seeds. If you plan on growing the plant from seeds, start with fresh seeds and soak them in water overnight before planting them.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plant once a week. You may lessen the frequency to once every two weeks during the winter season.
Fertilization
Please use a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10. Ferilise twice a month during the growing season – spring and summer. Be mindful of over-fertilizing your plant, as this may lead to excessive growth and decreased health.
Pruning
To shape and control the plant's growth and boost presentation, you may prune it every fall or winter, preferably before the new growth fades in. Cut back on the branches, and remove any dead or yellowing leaves. Maintain a balanced amount of foliage in the plant, with no one part dominating the others.
Propagation of Psychotria articulata (Hiern) E.M.A.Petit
Psychotria articulata (Hiern) E.M.A.Petit, commonly known as the jointed Psychotria, is a plant species that belongs to the family Rubiaceae. It is a subshrub, with woody stems, that can reach up to 1 meter in height. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and oval-shaped, while its flowers are white and tube-shaped.
Propagation of Psychotria articulata can be achieved by using its seeds or stem cuttings as planting materials.
Propagation by seeds
When propagating Psychotria articulata by seeds, it is best to use fresh seeds that have been collected from the plant. The seeds should be cleaned and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The pots should be kept in a warm and humid environment, with temperatures ranging from 25-30°C, until germination.
Germination of Psychotria articulata seeds can take several weeks to months. Once the seedlings have emerged, they should be placed in a well-lit area but should be protected from direct sunlight. The seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots once they have reached a substantial size and can handle the stress of transplanting.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Propagation of Psychotria articulata can also be achieved by stem cuttings taken from the plant. The stem cuttings should be taken from healthy and mature branches, and they should be around 10-15 cm long.
Once the stem cuttings have been collected, the leaves that are located closest to the bottom of the cutting should be removed. The cutting should then be treated with rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The pots should be kept in a warm and humid environment, with temperatures ranging from 25-30°C.
After a few weeks, the cutting should start producing roots. Once the roots have established, the plant can be transplanted into an individual pot and eventually moved to a more permanent location once it has grown to a suitable size.
Disease and Pest Management for Psychotria articulata
Psychotria articulata, commonly known as Articulated Psychotria, is a tropical evergreen plant that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is a beautiful shrub with glossy, leathery leaves and red, yellow, or orange flowers. Like any other plant, it is vulnerable to several pests and diseases that can hamper growth and development. Effective disease and pest management practices are essential to maintain the plant's health and appearance.
Diseases
1. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a common fungal disease that causes tiny brownish spots on the leaves. The infection can lead to defoliation and stunting. To manage the disease, remove the affected leaves and improve the air circulation around the plant.
2. Root Rot: Poor drainage and overwatering can cause root rot. The fungus attacks the roots and causes them to rot, leading to wilting of the leaves and eventual plant death. To avoid root rot, ensure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering.
3. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that manifests as white, powdery patches on the leaves and stem. The disease can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. To manage the disease, prune the affected areas and ensure adequate airflow around the plant.
Pests
1. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant's sap, leading to yellowing and curling of the leaves. They also produce webbing that can make the plant look unsightly. Control spider mites using insecticidal soaps and oils and improve the humidity around the plant.
2. Scale Insects: Scale insects are tiny, oval-shaped pests that attach themselves to the stems and leaves, sucking sap from the plant. They can lead to leaf yellowing and stunted growth. Control scale insects by pruning the affected areas and using insecticidal soaps and oils.
3. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are soft-bodied pests that look like white cotton. They also suck sap from the plant and can lead to weak growth. Control mealybugs by removing them with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol and using insecticidal soaps and oils.
Effective disease and pest management practices such as proper watering, fertilization, pruning, and monitoring are essential to keep the Psychotria articulata healthy and flourishing.
