Overview of Sabicea bicarpellata K.Schum.
Sabicea bicarpellata K.Schum., commonly known as the black-fruited milkberry, is a shrub species belonging to the family Rubiaceae. This species is native to tropical regions of Africa, particularly found in the Congo Basin, and Tanzania. It is a popular plant in traditional medicine and is also valued for its edible or medicinal fruits.
Appearance of Sabicea bicarpellata K.Schum.
Sabicea bicarpellata K.Schum. is a multi-branched shrub that typically grows up to a height of 4 meters. It has shiny, dark green leaves and small, white, fragrant flowers which bloom from February to August. The fruit of the plant is a black, berry-like drupe, measuring about 3cm in diameter.
Uses of Sabicea bicarpellata K.Schum.
Medicinal properties:
Sabicea bicarpellata K.Schum. is widely used in traditional medicine for treating various ailments such as malaria, rheumatism, fever, and stomach problems. The plant is believed to possess potent anti-malarial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties, which make it a good candidate for further drug development. The root, stem, and leaves of the plant are usually boiled to make a decoction, which is taken orally or applied topically to treat a variety of conditions.
Edible fruits:
The fruits of Sabicea bicarpellata K.Schum. are edible and have a sweet, juicy, and tangy taste. They are consumed fresh or processed into jams, jellies, and juices. The locals also use the fruits to make a refreshing beverage or to flavor alcoholic drinks such as beer and wine.
Ornamental plant:
The plant’s attractive foliage and fruits make it a popular choice for ornamental purposes. It is often grown in gardens and parks as an ornamental shrub or hedge.
Growth Conditions for Sabicea bicarpellata K.Schum.
Sabicea bicarpellata K.Schum., also known as Cipo-canastero, is a perennial plant that is native to Brazil. It is usually found on the forest floor in areas with low to medium light exposure.
Light Requirements
The plant requires partial to full shade to grow properly. It can tolerate some direct sun exposure in the morning or late afternoon, but too much can be harmful to the plant. It is recommended to keep the plant in an area with filtered light or in a shaded area under a tree canopy.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C). It is not frost tolerant, and extreme cold can damage or kill the plant. Therefore, it is best to keep the plant in a temperature-controlled environment or in a warm region where the temperature does not drop below 50°F (10°C).
Soil Requirements
This plant thrives in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including loam, sandy loam and clay loam soils. The plant is adaptable to slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils, with an optimal pH range of 5.5-7.5. However, it is prone to root rot in poorly drained soils, so it is essential to ensure that the soil is well-draining.
In conclusion, Sabicea bicarpellata K.Schum. requires partial to full shade and warm temperatures to survive. Additionally, it needs well-drained soils rich in organic matter to thrive. By providing these ideal growth conditions, you can ensure that the plant grows healthy and strong.
Cultivation of Sabicea bicarpellata K.Schum.
Sabicea bicarpellata K.Schum. is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures and plenty of sunlight for optimal growth. It is typically grown in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and planted in a location protected from strong winds. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of between 5.5 and 6.5.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering, and the soil should be kept moist. Inadequate watering can lead to wilting and leaf drop, while overwatering can cause root rot. Water the plant deeply once a week, increasing the frequency during hot, dry periods. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can encourage fungal growth.
Fertilization
Feeding Sabicea bicarpellata K.Schum. with a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season can help ensure healthy growth. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant period in the winter. Use a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen to encourage leaf growth.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Sabicea bicarpellata K.Schum., but it can be done to control the size and shape of the plant. Cut back any overgrown or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth, but avoid cutting back too much at once, as this can weaken the plant. Prune after the flowering period, so as not to remove any flower buds.
Propagation of Sabicea bicarpellata K.Schum.
Sabicea bicarpellata K.Schum. can be propagated through various methods including seeds, cuttings, and division of clumps.
Propagation through seeds
Seeds of Sabicea bicarpellata K.Schum. can be collected from the plant and sowed directly in well-drained soil. The best time to collect seeds is during the dry season when the plant has finished flowering and the seeds have started to dry up. The seeds should be sowed at a depth of about 1-2 cm and should be watered regularly until germination occurs. Germination can take anywhere from 1-3 weeks.
Propagation through stem cuttings
Sabicea bicarpellata K.Schum. can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during the wet season when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be taken from the tips of the stems and should be about 10-15 cm long. The bottom of the cutting should be treated with a rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting should be planted in a well-drained soil mixture and kept in a warm, humid place. After a few weeks, the cutting should start to develop roots and new growth.
Propagation through division of clumps
Another method of propagating Sabicea bicarpellata K.Schum. is through division of clumps. This method is best done during the wet season when the plant is actively growing. Clumps can be divided by carefully digging up the plant and separating the roots into smaller clumps. Each clump should have a few stems and a healthy root system. The clumps should then be replanted in a well-drained soil mixture and watered regularly until new growth appears.
Disease and Pest Management for Sabicea bicarpellata K.Schum.
Sabicea bicarpellata K.Schum., also known as Barwe or Etembo, is a medicinal plant native to Africa that has been reported to possess numerous health benefits. However, like other plants, Sabicea bicarpellata can be attacked by pests and diseases. Here are some common diseases and pests that affect Sabicea bicarpellata and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf spots
Sabicea bicarpellata is susceptible to leaf spots caused by various fungi, including Cercospora sabiceae, Phyllosticta sabiceae, and Septoria sabiceae. Leaf spots can cause the leaves to yellow and eventually fall off, reducing the plant's ability to photosynthesize and grow. To manage leaf spots, it is essential to prune the affected leaves and stems and dispose of them properly. You can also use copper-based fungicides to prevent the spread of fungal spores and reduce the severity of the infection.
Root rot
Root rot is a common disease caused by Pythium and Phytophthora fungi and is prevalent in plants grown in poorly drained soils. Root rot can cause the roots to decay, resulting in reduced water and nutrient uptake and eventually plant death. To manage root rot, ensure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering the plant. Trimming the affected root parts can also help reduce the severity of the infection. Apply a fungicide to prevent further spread of the fungi.
Pests
Thrips
Thrips are small insects that can cause significant damage to Sabicea bicarpellata plants. They cause damage by sucking the sap from the leaves and flowers, causing them to wilt and develop a silvery appearance. In severe cases, thrips can cause stunted growth, reduced yields, and even death. To manage thrips, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. You can also consider introducing beneficial insects such as ladybugs that prey on thrips.
Mites
Mites are also common pests that attack Sabicea bicarpellata. They cause damage by sucking sap from the plant's leaves, leaving white or yellow speckles behind. In severe cases, mites can cause defoliation, stunted growth, and even death of the plant. To manage mites, you can prune the affected leaves and dispose of them properly. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.
Correctly identifying the pests and diseases affecting Sabicea bicarpellata and using appropriate methods to manage them can help keep the plant healthy and promote optimal growth and yields.
