Origin
Tabernaemontana johnstonii (Stapf) Pichon, commonly known as Johnston’s Bower Plant, originates from Western Africa, specifically from Nigeria, Cameroon, and Gabon.
Common Names
The plant is usually referred to as the Johnston’s Bower Plant, but it is also known by other common names such as Yellow Bower Tree, African Tabernae Montane, and Padauk.
Appearance
The Tabernaemontana johnstonii is a perennial plant that can grow up to a height of 10 feet. It has a round, dense, and bushy foliage of dark green leaves that are about 6.5 inches long and 2.5 inches wide. The plant produces fragrant, creamy-white flowers that are about 1.5 inches in diameter, with yellow or orange centers. The plant's fruit is a small, green, and round capsule that contains numerous seeds.
Uses
The Tabernaemontana johnstonii plant is commonly used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments. The plant contains alkaloids and other chemical compounds, which have antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Some people also use the plant's bark and roots to treat fever, toothache, and skin diseases. The plant is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks, where it adds beauty and fragrance to the surroundings.
Overall, the Tabernaemontana johnstonii is a beautiful plant with many medicinal uses that provide various benefits to its users.
Light Requirements
The Tabernaemontana johnstonii plant requires a significant amount of light. It prefers bright, indirect sunlight, and should receive at least 6 hours of light per day. However, direct sunlight can be harmful to this plant, so it's essential to ensure that it's not exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires warm temperatures ranging between 18°C and 25°C. It grows best in regions with temperatures that remain relatively constant throughout the year. Avoid exposing the plant to extreme temperatures as it can damage the plant and inhibit growth.
Soil Requirements
Tabernaemontana johnstonii thrives in well-drained, rich, and slightly acidic soil. The soil should be free of rocks and have a pH between 6.5 to 7.2. It's also essential to ensure that the soil is nutrient-rich as this plant requires adequate nutrition for growth. The best soil type for this plant is a mixture of loam, peat, and sand.
Cultivation
Tabernaemontana johnstonii is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures and high humidity. It grows best in well-draining, rich soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. The plant can be propagated through stem cuttings or seed.
To propagate through stem cuttings, select a healthy stem with at least two leaves and cut it at an angle. Remove the lower leaves and place the stem in a container with moist soil. Keep the soil moist and warm, and the stem should root in a few weeks.
When propagating through seeds, the seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist and warm. Germination can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
Watering
The watering needs of Tabernaemontana johnstonii vary depending on the season and the environment. During the growing season, the plant should be watered twice a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch. In the cooler months, watering should be reduced to once a week.
It is essential to ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot. Overwatering can also lead to the development of fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Tabernaemontana johnstonii benefits from regular fertilization. During the growing season, feed the plant every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Fertilizers high in nitrogen promote vegetative growth, while those with higher levels of phosphorus encourage flowering.
It is essential not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can lead to salt buildup in the soil, which can harm the roots. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the fertilizer being used.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential part of Tabernaemontana johnstonii care. Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and promotes flower production. Prune the plant after flowering by cutting back the top growth by one-third. This will help to maintain the plant's shape and size.
It is also essential to remove any dead or damaged branches as they appear. This will help to prevent the development of fungal diseases and pests.
Propagation of Tabernaemontana johnstonii
Tabernaemontana johnstonii, commonly known as Johnson's crested-apocynaceae, is a shrub or small tree native to Central Africa. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its large, glossy leaves, and fragrant flowers. Propagation of Tabernaemontana johnstonii can be done using various methods, including:
Seeds
Seeds from mature and healthy Tabernaemontana johnstonii plants can be collected and used for propagation. The seeds should be planted immediately after harvesting, as they have a short shelf life. To increase the germination rate, the seeds can be soaked in water for 24 hours before planting. Plant the seeds in well-draining soil, about 0.5 to 1 inch deep. Keep the soil moist, and provide ample sunlight. The seeds should germinate within a few weeks.
Cuttings
Tabernaemontana johnstonii can be propagated using stem cuttings from a healthy mother plant. The best time to take cuttings is during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cut a healthy 6 to 8-inch stem from the mother plant using a sharp, sterilized knife. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the stem in a pot filled with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm spot with indirect light. In a few weeks, roots should start developing, and new growth should emerge.
Air Layering
Air layering is a propagation method that involves creating a new plant by inducing roots to sprout on a branch while it is still attached to the mother plant. This method is more complex than the previous two, but it produces clones that are identical to the mother plant. Select a healthy branch that is at least one year old and has no damage or disease. Make a small cut in the bark on the bottom of the branch, about 2 to 3 inches from the tip. Apply rooting hormone to the cut area, and wrap it in a damp piece of sphagnum moss. Cover the moss with plastic wrap and secure it with twist ties. After a few weeks, roots should develop, and the branch can be cut off from the mother plant and potted in well-draining soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Tabernaemontana johnstonii
Tabernaemontana johnstonii is a beautiful tropical plant known for its large, showy flowers and pale-green leaves. However, like other plants, it is prone to several diseases and pest attacks that can affect its health and aesthetics. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions for their management:
Diseases
1. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes small, dark spots on the leaves, which later turn yellow and fall off. The disease thrives in warm and humid conditions and spreads through water droplets. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected leaves, improve air circulation, and avoid wetting the leaves while watering the plant.
2. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a powdery white substance on the plant's leaves and stems. It occurs in areas with high humidity and poor air circulation. To manage powdery mildew, improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides if necessary.
3. Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to rot and die. The disease thrives in overly moist soil and can be fatal to the plant. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering the plant, use well-draining soil, and remove and destroy infected plants.
Pests
1. Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small, sap-sucking insects that cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. They also excrete a sticky substance that attracts ants and other insects. To manage whiteflies, use insecticidal soap or oil, hang sticky traps, and encourage natural predators such as ladybugs.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, spider-like insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and browning of the leaves. They thrive in hot, dry conditions and can quickly spread to other plants. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to increase humidity, use insecticidal soap or oil, and prune affected leaves.
3. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, cotton-like insects that cluster on the leaves and stems, sucking the plant's sap. They also excrete a sticky substance that attracts ants and other insects. To manage mealybugs, use insecticidal soap or oil, remove and destroy heavily infested plants, and encourage natural predators such as ladybugs.
By following these disease and pest management practices, you can keep your Tabernaemontana johnstonii healthy and thriving.
