Origin
Rinorea subintegrifolia (P.Beauv.) Kuntze forma subintegrifolia belongs to the family Violaceae and is native to several regions in Africa including Cameroon, Cote d'Ivoire, Gabon, Ghana, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone.
Common Names
The common names for Rinorea subintegrifolia include African redwood, Akurejo in Nigeria, and Nare in Sierra Leone.
Uses
Rinorea subintegrifolia has a variety of medicinal uses in traditional medicine. The plant has antibacterial properties and has been used to treat various ailments such as stomach disorders, coughs, and skin infections. The bark and roots of the plant have also been used as a febrifuge and to treat gonorrhea and dysentery. Additionally, the wood of the Rinorea subintegrifolia is sometimes used for construction, furniture, and fuel.
General Appearance
Rinorea subintegrifolia is a large tree that can grow up to 45 meters tall. The tree has a straight trunk that is usually free of branches for the first 20 meters. The bark of the tree is smooth and grayish-brown in color. The leaves are simple, alternate, and elliptical in shape, with a length of about 13 cm and a width of about 6 cm. The leaves are dark green in color and have an entire margin. The tree produces small, fragrant, white flowers that are usually less than 1 cm in diameter. The fruit of Rinorea subintegrifolia is a small capsule that contains numerous small, brown to black seeds.
Light Requirements
Rinorea subintegrifolia (P.Beauv.) Kuntze forma subintegrifolia typically grows in a shaded environment as an understorey tree. This means that it requires a moderate level of light to grow. It can tolerate moderate shade but direct sunlight can be harmful to its growth. Therefore, the plant is ideally grown in an area with filtered or dappled light.
Temperature Requirements
Rinorea subintegrifolia (P.Beauv.) Kuntze forma subintegrifolia is naturally found in the tropical regions of Central and South America. It grows best in warm temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. The plant cannot tolerate frost and should be kept away from cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C. The ideal temperature range for the plant should be maintained consistently to ensure healthy growth.
Soil Requirements
Rinorea subintegrifolia (P.Beauv.) Kuntze forma subintegrifolia thrives in rich, well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. The soil should have a slightly acidic to slightly alkaline pH level ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. Since the plant grows in a shaded environment, it does not require high levels of nutrients. However, regular fertilization with a balanced liquid fertilizer can encourage healthy growth. The plant should be watered regularly to prevent the soil from drying out completely.
Cultivation Methods
Rinorea subintegrifolia is a tropical plant that requires a warm and humid environment for optimal growth. It is adaptable to a range of soil types and can be grown in full sun or partial shade. The plant should be grown in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Rinorea subintegrifolia can be propagated from seeds or cuttings and requires regular watering and fertilization to thrive.
Watering Needs
Rinorea subintegrifolia requires regular watering to maintain soil moisture. The plant should be watered deeply, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. It is best to water Rinorea subintegrifolia in the morning, allowing the foliage to dry before nightfall.
Fertilization
Rinorea subintegrifolia benefits from regular applications of fertilizer during the growing season. A balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied every two to three weeks to promote healthy growth and development. The plant should be fertilized sparingly during the winter months when growth slows down.
Pruning
Rinorea subintegrifolia does not require regular pruning, but it can be trimmed back to shape as needed. The plant can be trained to grow on a trellis or support, and any dead or damaged foliage should be removed promptly. Pruning can be done throughout the growing season, but it is best to avoid heavy pruning during the winter months when the plant is less active.
Propagation of Rinorea subintegrifolia (P.Beauv.) Kuntze forma subintegrifolia
Rinorea subintegrifolia (P.Beauv.) Kuntze forma subintegrifolia can be propagated through a variety of methods. Some common methods for propagating the plant include:
Seed propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagating Rinorea subintegrifolia is by seed propagation. Collect mature seeds and sow them in a well-draining planting mix. Keep the mix moist but not too wet until germination, which can take up to a few weeks. Once the seedlings have reached a few inches in height and have grown multiple leaves, they can be transplanted to a larger container or directly into the ground.
Cuttings propagation
Another common method of propagation is through stem cuttings. Take a cutting from new growth and remove the lower leaves, leaving only a few at the top. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in bright, indirect sunlight. Once roots have formed, new growth will appear, and it will be ready for transplantation to a larger pot or directly into the ground.
Division propagation
Rinorea subintegrifolia can also be propagated by dividing the plant. This method is usually performed during the early spring before the plant begins to grow actively. Gently dig up the plant, separate the root ball into multiple sections using a clean, sharp knife, and transplant each division into its own container with fresh potting soil. Keep the divisions moist and in indirect sunlight until they are well established, then transplant to their final growing position.
Disease and Pest Management for Rinorea subintegrifolia
Rinorea subintegrifolia is a tropical plant with several benefits. It is used for its medicinal properties and as an ornamental plant. However, the plant is susceptible to several diseases and pests that can cause severe damage if left unchecked. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that affect Rinorea subintegrifolia and how to manage them.
Common Diseases
Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. The disease appears as circular spots on the leaves, which later turn brown or black. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves, and ensure that the plant is not crowded. In severe cases, you may need to use a fungicide.
Root Rot: This is a bacterial or fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. It is caused by over-watering the plant or poor drainage. Signs of root rot include wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth. To manage root rot disease, improve drainage and avoid over-watering the plant. You may also need to use a fungicide or bactericide if the situation worsens.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. It appears as a white powdery substance on the surface of the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, remove infected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant. You may also need to use a fungicide to control the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the leaves of the plant. They cause the leaves to curl, turn yellow, and drop prematurely. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a stream of water to remove them physically or use insecticidal soap.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are tiny insects that suck sap from the plant. They appear as white cottony masses on the plant's stem and leaves. To manage mealybugs, remove infected plant parts, and use insecticidal soap or alcohol to kill them.
Mites: Mites are tiny insects that cause itching and redness on the skin. They are common on Rinorea subintegrifolia, causing the leaves to curl and turn yellow. To manage mites, keep the plant clean and well hydrated. You may also use insecticidal soap to control their spread.
Good management practices such as regular inspection, proper watering, fertilization, and pruning will help keep Rinorea subintegrifolia free from diseases and pests.
