Overview
Psychotria faucicola K.Schum. is a plant species belonging to the Rubiaceae family. It is a flowering plant which is native to the Amazon rainforest and found growing in the Brazilian state of Amazonas. It is a small evergreen shrub that grows up to 50 cm in height. The plant has several common names including Engole Gavião, and Schomburgkia cabbage.
Appearance
Psychotria faucicola K.Schum. has a dense habit and grows as a small shrub. It has woody stems with green foliage. The leaves are elliptic, glossy, and dark green. The leaves are simple and opposite with a length of approximately 8 cm and are 4 cm wide. It produces small white flowers that are fragrant with a diameter of approximately 1 cm. The fruits produced by this plant are fleshy, black berries that are approximately 7 mm long.
Uses
The Psychotria faucicola K.Schum. plant has several medicinal uses. The bark and roots of this plant have traditionally been used to treat fever, diarrhea, and as an antibacterial agent. The plant is also used to treat snake bites, skin irritations, and insect bites. In addition, Psychotria faucicola K.Schum. has cultural significance and is used in some indigenous communities for spiritual purposes.
This plant is also used as an ornamental plant for its attractive foliage, architecture and fragrant flowers. It can be grown in both partial shade and full sun and needs moist, well-drained soil to grow. Psychotria faucicola K.Schum. adds a unique, exotic touch to any garden with its fragrant flowers and dark green foliage.
Typical growth conditions of Psychotria faucicola K.Schum.
Light: To ensure optimal growth of Psychotria faucicola, it is advisable to provide it with bright but indirect sunlight. Light is a crucial aspect of the plant's growth as it helps in the photosynthesis process. Direct sunlight exposure may damage the plant's leaves, while low light may result in stunted growth.
Temperature: The plant prefers warm temperatures that range from 18°C to 28°C. These conditions are vital to ensure active growth and development. It is advised to keep the plant away from areas with drafts that may affect its temperature and growth.
Soil Requirements: Psychotria faucicola requires well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It is essential to maintain a soil pH of between 6.0 to 7.5. Soils that are too acidic or alkaline may inhibit the absorption of nutrients in the plant leading to stunted growth and poor development.
The plant is not tolerant to water-logged soils, and it is recommended to use a well-draining potting mix to ensure proper drainage. Regular watering is essential, but it is essential to avoid overwatering as this may lead to root rot.
Fertilizer: The plant requires regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer. It is advisable to apply a slow-release fertilizer every three months during the growing season. Overfertilization may lead to the accumulation of salts in the soil, which may affect the overall health of the plant.
Humidity: The plant prefers high humidity levels of between 60% to 80% to promote active growth and development. Low humidity may lead to dry and wilting leaves, while high humidity may lead to dampening off disease.
Propagation: Psychotria faucicola can be propagated through stem cuttings or division. It is advisable to propagate the plant during the growing season when it exhibits active growth and development.
Cultivation Methods
Psychotria faucicola K.Schum., commonly known as "aguas calientes," is a tropical plant that prefers warm and humid conditions. It can grow well in USDA hardiness zones 10 and 11. For best results, plant it in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers partial shade or dappled sunlight.
If you live in an area with mild winters, you can plant the Psychotria faucicola K.Schum. outdoor. However, if you live in colder regions, grow the plant indoors in a humid environment.
Watering Needs
The Psychotria faucicola K.Schum. plant prefers an evenly moist soil that never dries out completely. Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. During the summer months, you may need to water the plant more frequently due to the high temperature and humidity.
Make sure to avoid getting water on the leaves since it can promote the growth of fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Feed the Psychotria faucicola K.Schum. plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season, typically from spring to early fall. Follow the fertilizer manufacturer's instructions for application and dosages.
It's also possible to promote healthy growth by feeding the plant with compost tea, which provides nourishing nutrients to the roots. Compost tea also helps to maintain soil fertility and drainage.
Pruning
To keep the Psychotria faucicola K.Schum. plant healthy and attractive, prune it regularly to remove dead, diseased, and damaged limbs, and shape it for the desired appearance. You can also prune it to promote bushier growth by removing the stem tips.
It's best to prune the plant in late winter before new growth starts. Pruning the plant in spring or summer can cause it to produce more tender growth, making it vulnerable to the colder months.
Propagation of Psychotria Faucicola K.Schum.
Propagation of this plant is relatively easy and can be done using the following methods:
Seeds Propagation
The most common method of propagating Psychotria faucicola is through seeds. Seeds can be sown in seedbeds or pots with well-draining soil. Seeds should be kept moist and warm for germination. Germination usually takes 2-3 weeks. Seedlings should be kept in a warm and humid environment until they are large enough to be transplanted into individual pots.
Cuttings Propagation
Another method of propagating Psychotria faucicola is through stem cuttings. Cuttings can be taken from the parent plant during its active growing season. Cuttings should be taken from the top of the plant and should be at least 4 inches long. Remove the leaves from the bottom of the cutting and dip the bottom end into rooting hormone. Place the cutting in well-draining soil and water it thoroughly. Keep the cutting in a warm and humid environment until it develops roots and can be transplanted into individual pots.
Division Propagation
Division propagation involves dividing the plant into smaller sections with roots. This method should be done during the plant's dormant period. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the roots into sections. Repot each section into its pot with well-draining soil. Place the newly potted plants in a warm and humid environment until they are established.
Disease and Pest Management for Psychotria faucicola K.Schum.
Psychotria faucicola K.Schum is a tropical plant that can be vulnerable to a variety of diseases and pests. Here are some of the most common issues and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Fungal leaf spots: One of the most common diseases that affect Psychotria faucicola is fungal leaf spots. These spots are caused by various fungi and can appear as yellow or brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove any affected leaves and maintain good air circulation around the plant.
Root rot: Root rot is another fungal disease that can affect Psychotria faucicola. This disease occurs when the soil is constantly moist, leading to the decay of the plant's roots. To prevent root rot, it is important to avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage in the soil. If root rot is present, it is recommended to remove any affected roots and replant the plant in new, well-draining soil.
Bacterial infections: Bacterial infections can also affect Psychotria faucicola, causing leaf wilting and discoloration. To manage bacterial infections, it is recommended to remove any affected leaves and apply a copper-based fungicide to the plant.
Pests
Spider mites: Spider mites are common pests that can affect Psychotria faucicola. These tiny insects feed on the plant's sap and cause discoloration and wilting of the leaves. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to use insecticidal soap or neem oil and maintain good humidity levels around the plant.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are another common pest that can affect Psychotria faucicola. These insects resemble tiny cotton balls and feed on the plant's sap, causing stunted growth and wilting. To manage mealybugs, it is recommended to use insecticidal soap or neem oil and remove any heavily infested plant parts.
Scale insects: Scale insects are also a common pest that can affect Psychotria faucicola, causing discoloration and wilting of the leaves. To manage scale insects, it is recommended to use insecticidal soap or neem oil and remove any heavily infested plant parts.
By implementing these disease and pest management techniques, you can help keep your Psychotria faucicola plant healthy and thriving.
