Description of Psychotria subobliqua Hiern
Psychotria subobliqua Hiern, also known as “coffee cola,” is a plant species of the Rubiaceae family. It is native to the tropical regions of South America, particularly in the Amazon basin, Peru, Bolivia, and Venezuela. It is often found growing in the understory of rainforests at elevations of 200–900 meters, but it can also be cultivated in gardens or in pots as an ornamental plant for its attractive foliage.
Common Names
P. subobliqua has several common names, including Coffee Cola, Wild Coffee, Guayusa, and Mambe Frambe.
General Appearance
The P. subobliqua plant is a small to medium-sized tree, ranging from 6 to 16 feet in height, with a dense, bushy form. It has smooth, glossy, elongated leaves, which are dark green on the surface and light green underneath. The leaves are arranged in an opposite pattern on the branches and are about 7.5 inches long and 2.5 inches wide. The flowers of P. subobliqua are small and white, similar to those of the coffee plant, and bloom in clusters. The fruit is a small red or black berry that contains two seeds that are used to make a caffeine-rich drink.
Uses
Psychoactive alkaloids are present in the leaves and are used by indigenous people for its psychoactive properties. The leaves are used to make tea or chewed, either alone or mixed with other plants, for medicinal purposes. The plant is also becoming more popular as an alternative to coffee, as it has high caffeine content but lower acidity.
Apart from its medicinal and culinary uses, P. subobliqua also provides ecological benefits. The dense foliage of the plant provides a shade for other plants growing below. It also serves as food for numerous herbivorous animals, including caterpillars and birds.
Light Requirements
Psychotria subobliqua Hiern requires a partially shaded environment to grow well. They typically grow under the canopy of trees where they receive dappled sunlight. Direct sunlight can damage the plant, especially during the afternoon sun when the light is much stronger.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Psychotria subobliqua Hiern is between 18°C and 21°C. They can tolerate higher temperatures but not for an extended period. Frost and temperatures below 5°C can damage or kill the plant. The best growth occurs in humid environments.
Soil Requirements
Psychotria subobliqua Hiern grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged as waterlogging can cause root rot. The pH level of the soil should be slightly acidic, between 5.5 and 6.5. If the soil is too alkaline, the plant will have difficulty taking up essential nutrients.
Cultivation Methods
Psychotria subobliqua Hiern is a tropical plant native to Africa, and it thrives in warm and humid conditions. The plant can be grown in both indoor and outdoor settings, and it requires well-drained soil rich in organic matter. When planting, it is advisable to space the seedlings at least 3 feet apart to reduce competition for nutrients and water. Regular watering is essential during the establishment phase, and mulching can help retain moisture and prevent weed growth around the plants.
Watering Needs
Watering is a critical aspect of Psychotria subobliqua Hiern cultivation. The plant requires consistent moisture, but it should not be overwatered. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases. The frequency of watering may vary depending on the environmental conditions and the soil type. As a general rule, the plant should be watered when the top 1 to 2 inches of the soil feel dry, and the leaves may appear slightly wilted. When watering, it is advisable to avoid getting the foliage wet to reduce the risk of fungal infections.
Fertilization
Pyschotria subobliqua Hiern requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage. The plant responds well to balanced fertilizers that contain equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The fertilizer should be applied during the growing season, typically from spring to fall. It is advisable to follow the manufacturer's instructions on the fertilizer label to avoid overfertilization, which can cause plant burn and other problems. Also, it is advisable to use organic fertilizers as they release nutrients slowly and improve soil structure over time.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and appearance of Psyhctotria subobliqua Hiern. The plant can be pruned at any time of the year, but it is advisable to do it during the dormant season (winter) to reduce stress on the plant. During pruning, diseased and damaged branches should be removed to promote healthy growth and prevent the spread of diseases. Also, overgrown branches can be trimmed to improve sunlight penetration and airflow in the plant canopy. Lastly, deadheading can promote the development of new buds and flowers, prolong the blooming season, and enhance the overall appearance of the plant.
Propagation of Psychotria subobliqua Hiern
Psychotria subobliqua Hiern, commonly known as Wedgeleaf Psychotria, is a tropical shrub that is native to South America. Propagating the plant can be achieved through different methods, including:
Seeds
Psychotria subobliqua Hiern can be propagated through seeds. The seeds should be extracted from mature fruit that has turned red and has fallen from the plant. Remove the seeds from the pulpy fruit and wash them to get rid of any remaining fruit. Plant them in a moist mixture of sand and soil and keep them in a bright, warm spot. Germination may take up to six weeks. The seedlings can be transplanted to separate pots when they are big enough to handle.
Cuttings
Another propagation method for Psychotria subobliqua Hiern is using cuttings. Take cuttings from healthy, mature plants in the spring or summer, making sure they are about six inches long with at least two leaves. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder. Then, plant the cutting in a pot filled with a mixture of soil and sand. Water it carefully and keep it in a warm, bright place. The cutting should root in six to eight weeks.
Division
Psychotria subobliqua Hiern can also be propagated through division. This method involves separating the plant's roots and replanting them in separate pots. The best time to do this is in the spring or early fall, when the plant is not actively growing. Carefully dig up the plant and remove as much soil as possible from the roots. Cut the roots into sections, each containing a few stems and some roots. Replant the sections in separate pots filled with soil and water them well.
Overall, propagating Psychotria subobliqua Hiern can be achieved through these different methods and can be a rewarding experience for gardeners looking to add this tropical shrub to their collection.
Disease Management
The Psychotria subobliqua Hiern is susceptible to certain diseases, including leaf spots, powdery mildew, and root rot. Leaf spots are caused by fungal pathogens and can be identified by distinct circular lesions on leaves. Powdery mildew, caused by fungi, can cover foliage in a white powdery substance, leading to stunted growth and reduced yield. Root rot is caused by fungi in the soil and can lead to root decay, wilted foliage, and plant death.
To manage these diseases, it is crucial to maintain good cultural practices by planting in well-drained soil, avoiding overwatering, and providing proper fertilization. Additionally, regular monitoring of the plant for any signs of disease is recommended. If any diseases are identified, prompt treatment with fungicides can be effective.
Pest Management
Psychotria subobliqua Hiern is also susceptible to pest infestations, including spider mites, whiteflies, and scale insects. Spider mites can cause damage by feeding on plant sap, leading to yellowed and curled leaves. Whiteflies can also lead to yellowing of foliage and can transmit viruses to the plant. Scale insects can cause stunted growth and yellowed leaves by feeding on plant sap.
To manage pest infestations, regular monitoring of the plant is essential. Physical removal of the pests by pruning infested branches or using a high-pressure water spray can be effective. Additionally, the use of insecticidal soaps and oils can be effective in reducing pest populations. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when using any insecticides.
Integrated pest management strategies that incorporate cultural practices, biological controls, and chemical controls can be used to manage both pests and diseases and reduce the impact on the plant.
