Overview of Randia mossica A.Chev.
Randia mossica A.Chev. is a tropical evergreen plant that belongs to the family Rubiaceae, commonly known as the coffee family. This plant is native to the African continent, specifically found in Chad and Cameroon. Due to its striking beauty and impressive medicinal properties, this plant has increasingly been cultivated as an ornamental plant.
Common Names
Randia mossica A.Chev. is known by several local names in Africa. In Cameroon, it is called "Mbanga-Nzou" by the Bantu tribe, while the Sara people of Chad refer to it as "Kare-Kare." The plant is commonly known as the African forest tree, bitter bark tree, or root bark tree.
Appearance
The Randia mossica A.Chev. plant has an attractive appearance that makes it an excellent addition to any garden. It grows up to eight meters tall and has dark green leaves that are glossy and oval-shaped. The tree also features beautiful and fragrant white flowers that bloom from May to June.
The fruits of the Randia mossica are bright red, and about the size of small plums. The fruits are edible but extremely sour and are typically eaten after cooking it with sugar and spices.
Uses
The Randia mossica A.Chev. plant is believed to have several medicinal properties. The plant's bark and roots contain a variety of chemical compounds that exhibit antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. The bark has been used in traditional medicine as a remedy for several ailments, including malaria, rheumatism, dysentery, and fever.
The fruits of the Randia mossica are also used for their medicinal properties. They are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. In African countries, the fruit extract is used to treat gastric ulcers, sore throat, and coughs. The fruit is also used to prepare a wide variety of jams and jellies.
The plant's wood is hard and durable, used for making furniture, tool handles, and other household items. The plant is also used for conservation purposes since it is a habitat for several wildlife species, including birds, monkeys, and bush babies.
Growth Conditions for Randia mossica A.Chev.
Light: Randia mossica A.Chev. thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. It requires ample sunlight for photosynthesis but also performs well in semi-shaded areas.
Temperature: The plant prefers warm temperatures ranging from 20 to 28 degrees Celsius. It can withstand high heat levels but can be damaged by extreme cold.
Soil requirements: Randia mossica A.Chev. requires well-drained, moist, and fertile soils for optimum growth and development. It prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.5. The plant can grow in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils.
Water: The plant requires moderate watering, and the soil should not be allowed to dry completely. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is crucial to maintain the right balance.
Fertilizer: Application of organic fertilizers during the growing season enhances the plant's overall growth and development.
Propagation: Randia mossica A.Chev. can be propagated through stem cuttings or seeds. Stem cuttings should be taken from young plant shoots and inserted into a well-prepared rooting medium. The cuttings should be kept moist and warm until root development occurs. For seed propagation, seeds should be sown in a well-prepared bed and kept moist.
Pests and Diseases: The plant is prone to attack by mealybugs and aphids, which can lead to stunted growth and reduced yields. Henec, regular application of pesticides is advised to protect the plant from these pests. Common diseases that affect Randia mossica A.Chev. include leaf spots, powdery mildew, and root rot. Proper sanitation and prompt treatment with fungicides can help prevent disease spread.
Cultivation Methods
Randia mossica A.Chev., commonly known as African lantern or white star apple, is a tropical plant that prefers warm temperatures and high humidity. It can be grown indoors or outdoors, depending on the climate and individual preferences. The plant prefers well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter and needs plenty of sunlight for at least six hours a day.
When starting, either seed or cutting can be used. You can remove the seed from the fruit and plant it in soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Cutting the plant at a node, dip it in root hormone powder and plant it in soil moistened by coconut water. Cover the plant with a plastic bag to create humidity, but make sure to give it air space to prevent mold or mildew growth. Once the plant roots, remove the plastic bag from the plant.
Watering Needs
Watering frequency should be determined by the soil's moisture level, plant size, and environmental conditions. The plant should be watered deeply once a week. The frequency of watering can be increased if the soil is drying out more quickly. It is essential to avoid over-watering the plant, as it can lead to root rot. Additionally, avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
Fertilization
Fertilizer should be applied every four to six weeks. Appropriate fertilizers include those high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The application of natural compost with some worm casting mixed with water at a ratio of 1:10 helps boost growth. Foliar sprays rich in calcium can keep the leaves and flowers firm and healthy. Feed amounts should be based on the plant size, and it's always essential to follow the product instructions.
Pruning
The plant has natural branching, but pruning can be done to shape or rejuvenate the plant. Pruning can be done in early spring before the plant begins to bloom. Cut off any dead or diseased limbs, and remove any existing buds or blooms. This procedure promotes vigorous growth and increases branching.
When the plant reaches too large a size, it is advisable to cut it back to maintain its shape and size. Always use sharp and sterile tools when pruning the plant to avoid the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Randia mossica A.Chev.
Propagation of Randia mossica A.Chev. is commonly done through seeds or stem cuttings. The following are the details of the propagation methods:
Seed propagation
Seeds of Randia mossica A.Chev. are collected from ripened fruits. The collected seeds are cleaned, dried, and sown in seed trays or pots filled with a well-draining propagation mix. The seeds are only partially covered with soil, and the trays are watered cautiously to avoid waterlogging of the soil. The trays are kept in a warm and bright location, and the seedlings emerge in 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings develop their true leaves, they can be transplanted into larger containers filled with regular potting soil.
Stem cutting propagation
Propagation of Randia mossica A.Chev. through stem cuttings is done by taking 4-6 inch long stem cuttings from healthy and mature plants. The cuttings are taken from the non-flowering, semi-hardwood sections of the plant, and the leaves on the lower part of the stem are removed. The cuttings are dipped in rooting hormone powder and planted in well-draining propagation mix. They are watered and kept in a bright and warm location. The cuttings develop roots in 3-4 weeks and can be transplanted into larger containers filled with regular potting soil.
In conclusion, the propagation of Randia mossica A.Chev. can be done through seeds or stem cuttings with proper care and attention.
Disease Management
Randia mossica A.Chev. is generally resistant to most diseases but can be affected by some pathogens. The commonly occurring diseases that affect this plant are leaf spot, root rot, and powdery mildew.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes the formation of small brown spots on the plant's leaves, which eventually turn black and fall off. To prevent this disease, avoid overhead watering, remove the infected leaves and destroy them. You can also apply fungicides such as copper-based products to the plant to manage the disease.
Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that can occur due to poor drainage and overwatering. The plant may show signs of wilt, yellowing of leaves, and eventually, the plant may collapse. To manage this disease, it is essential to improve soil drainage, minimize watering, and ensure that the potting medium is sterile.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves of the plant, ultimately leading to leaf drop and stunted growth. To control powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation around the plant, prune the affected branches, and apply neem oil, sulfur, or potassium bicarbonate fungicides.
Pest Management
Common pests that can infest Randia mossica A.Chev. are mealybugs, spider mites, and thrips.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, white, cotton-like pests that suck the sap from the plant's leaves and stems. They can be managed by wiping them off with a damp cloth, spraying insecticidal soap, or using neem oil.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that cause yellowing of leaves, webbing, and eventual leaf drop. To manage spider mites, rinse the plant with a strong jet of water, apply insecticidal soap, or use neem oil.
Thrips
Thrips are tiny insects that cause scarring on the leaves and flowers of the plant. They can be managed by pruning the affected areas, using sticky traps, or applying insecticidal soap or neem oil.
