Overview:
Psychotria capensis var. puberula, also known as Wild Coffee, is a plant species commonly found in the eastern regions of Africa. This plant belongs to the Rubiaceae family of plants and is characterized by its attractive appearance and varied uses.
General Appearance:
The Psychotria capensis var. puberula plant grows up to 3 meters tall with branches ranging from thin, wiry ones to thicker, woody ones. The leaves of this plant are glossy, green, and measure up to 10 cm long by 5 cm wide. The flowers of the plant are small, white, and held in clusters. The fruit of the plant is a hairy red berry which contains the coffee-like seeds.
Origin:
Psychotria capensis var. puberula is native to the eastern regions of Africa such as Angola, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. It is commonly found in forests, woodlands and along riverbanks.
Common Names:
The plant has different common names in various regions. In South Africa, it is known as "Bushman's Coffee," and "Yemen Coffee," whereas in Zimbabwe, it is called "Mubovora." The plant is called "Mukombero" by the Zambian people.
Uses:
Psychotria capensis var. puberula is used for medicinal and cultural purposes in various parts of Africa. The plant is believed to have anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and anti-viral properties and is used to treat ailments such as headaches, fever, and respiratory infections. Some African cultures use the plant as an aphrodisiac to boost libido. In addition to its medicinal uses, the plant is also used to make a coffee-like drink, which is consumed by many people in Southern and Eastern Africa. The seeds of the plant are typically roasted, ground, and brewed to make this drink – giving rise to the plant’s common names such as "Wild Coffee" and "Yemen Coffee."
Light Conditions
The Psychotria capensis var. puberula grows best in partially shaded areas since it requires sufficient light to perform photosynthesis, but excessive heat and light can cause stress to the plant. Direct sunlight may scorch the leaves and affect growth rate.
Temperature Requirements
Psychotria capensis var. puberula grows best in mild to warm conditions. It thrives in temperatures ranging from 18 to 27 degrees Celsius. Extreme temperatures can be detrimental to the plant. Avoid exposing the plant to frost, especially during winter.
Soil Requirements
Psychotria capensis var. puberula adapts well to a variety of soils, but it requires soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be well-draining to prevent waterlogging. A pH level of 5.5 to 6.5 is optimal for the growth of this plant.
Water and Humidity Requirements
The plant requires regular watering to maintain the soil moderately moist, but waterlogging should be avoided. During the summer months, the plant requires more frequent watering. To maintain optimal humidity, it is recommended to mist the plant occasionally.
Other Considerations
The plant requires adequate air circulation to prevent fungal infections. It is also important to keep the plant free from pests, especially aphids and mites, as infestations can damage the plant. Regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer can also promote healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods
The Psychotria capensis (Eckl.) Vatke var. puberula (E.M.A.Petit) Verdc. Plant is native to South Africa and requires specific growing conditions to thrive. The plant loves warmth and requires a temperature range of 24 - 28 degrees Celsius. It needs to be grown in a location where it gets some dappled shade, as too much direct sunlight can burn its leaves. The ideal soil pH for this plant is between 5.5 and 6.5, and it requires a well-draining, loamy soil mixture.
The plant can be propagated using seeds, cuttings, or division of the existing root stock. Seeds should be sown in moist peat moss and placed in a heated propagator to aid germination.
Watering Needs
The Psychotria capensis (Eckl.) Vatke var. puberula (E.M.A.Petit) Verdc. plant should be watered regularly, but not overwatered. It requires moderate watering and should be watered when the top few inches of soil are dry to the touch. It is better to water slowly and deeply, allowing the water to penetrate deep into the soil, rather than watering frequently with small amounts of water.
Fertilization
Proper fertilization is essential for a healthy Psychotria capensis (Eckl.) Vatke var. puberula (E.M.A.Petit) Verdc. plant. The plant requires a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during the growing season, which is spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to ensure the Psychotria capensis (Eckl.) Vatke var. puberula (E.M.A.Petit) Verdc. plant maintains its shape. The plant should be pruned in early spring, just before new growth appears. Prune any damaged or diseased branches or foliage. If you want to control the height or spread of the plant, it can be pruned lightly throughout the year, but avoid heavy pruning, as it can lead to the development of weak growth.
With the right care and attention, the Psychotria capensis (Eckl.) Vatke var. puberula (E.M.A.Petit) Verdc. plant can thrive, adding beauty and interest to any garden or indoor space.
Propagation of Psychotria capensis var. puberula
Psychotria capensis var. puberula can be propagated through the following methods:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Psychotria capensis var. puberula can be sown in a well-draining propagation mix. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist by regular misting. Germination can take up to a few weeks to a few months. Once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings of Psychotria capensis var. puberula can be taken from semi-hardwood stem tips. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and inserted into a well-draining propagation mix. The cuttings should be kept misted and in a warm, humid environment until they have developed roots and new leaves.
Division Propagation
Psychotria capensis var. puberula can also be propagated through division. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections, each with its own root system, and then planting the new sections individually. Division should be done in early spring when the plant is actively growing.
Disease Management
Psychotria capensis var. puberula is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by a fungus and results in the formation of circular brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves, improve air circulation around the plant, and avoid overhead watering.
- Powdery Mildew: This disease is caused by a fungus and results in the formation of a white powdery substance on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves, improve air circulation around the plant, and avoid overhead watering.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by a fungus and results in the decay of the plant's roots. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering, ensure proper drainage, and remove and destroy infected plants.
Pest Management
Psychotria capensis var. puberula may also be affected by pest infestations, including:
- Spider Mites: These pests are tiny and difficult to spot but can cause damage to the leaves by sucking the sap out of the plant. To manage this pest, spray the plant with water to remove the pests, and apply an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Mealybugs: These pests are small and cottony in appearance and can cause damage to the leaves by sucking the sap out of the plant. To manage this pest, dab individual mealybugs with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or apply an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Aphids: These pests are small and pear-shaped and can cause damage to the leaves by sucking the sap out of the plant. To manage this pest, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to remove the aphids, and apply an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
