Tapinanthus ghikae (Volkens & Schweinf.) Danser Description
Tapinanthus ghikae, also known as the Ghanaian mistletoe or musasenkenten in the Twi language, is a parasitic plant that belongs to the family Loranthaceae. It is a small evergreen shrub that grows on the branches of other trees and can reach a height of up to 3 meters.
The plant has slender branches that are covered with a dense layer of leaves. The leaves are oval-shaped, shiny, and dark green in color. The flowers of Tapinanthus ghikae are small, inconspicuous, and occur in clusters. The fruits are ovoid berries that are about 5 mm in diameter and contain a single seed.
Origin and Distribution
Tapinanthus ghikae is native to tropical West Africa and can be found in countries such as Ghana, Togo, and Ivory Coast. It prefers to grow on the branches of fruit trees, such as mango, orange, and guava, as well as on oil palm trees.
Uses
The Ghanaian mistletoe has various medicinal uses in traditional African medicine. It is believed to have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties. The plant is commonly used to treat fever, headache, and toothache. It has also been used to stimulate lactation in nursing mothers.
In addition to its medicinal uses, Tapinanthus ghikae has cultural significance in some West African societies. The plant is sometimes used in traditional rituals and as a symbol of fertility and abundance.
General appearance
Overall, Tapinanthus ghikae has a striking and distinct appearance. Its evergreen leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers make it easy to distinguish from other plants. Its parasitic nature also sets it apart, as it requires a host tree to survive.
Light Requirements
Tapinanthus ghikae is a parasitic plant, so it does not require direct sunlight. It can be grown in filtered or indirect light conditions. However, it does require some amount of light for photosynthesis and growth. Therefore, it is recommended to place the plant in an area that receives bright, indirect light for a part of the day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in warm and humid conditions. The ideal temperature range for Tapinanthus ghikae is between 20°C and 30°C. It can tolerate minimum temperatures of 16°C and maximum temperatures of 35°C. Sudden temperature fluctuations or extreme temperatures can cause damage to the plant, affecting its growth and survival.
Soil Requirements
Being a parasitic plant, Tapinanthus ghikae does not require soil for its growth as it derives nutrients from the host plant. However, it is recommended to grow the plant in good quality, well-aerated soil to provide support to the plant's roots. The soil must have a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0, which is slightly acidic to neutral. The soil must also be rich in nutrients and organic matter. A soil mix comprising of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite in equal parts can be used for growing the plant in pots or containers.
Cultivation of Tapinanthus ghikae
T. ghikae is a parasitic plant species that grows on other trees in its natural habitat. Therefore, cultivating it may appear challenging, but it is doable. The first step is to identify a suitable host tree which should be any available hardwood tree with a bark that can hold the plant.
Watering Needs
As a parasite, the Tapinanthus ghikae does not have the common watering needs typical of plants. It derives its nutrients from the host tree and does not require regular watering except under the following circumstances:
- When first planted, to help it establish itself on the host tree
- During dry seasons or droughts when the host tree may not have enough moisture to provide to the parasite plant
Fertilization
The Tapinanthus ghikae does not require fertilization. It gets its nutrients from the host tree to which it is attached. Any attempts to apply fertilizers or other nutrients to the soil around the host tree may harm the plant and therefore should be avoided.
Pruning
The Tapinanthus ghikae does not require pruning. In fact, pruning the host tree may impact the plant negatively since it relies on the tree for its growth and survival. Any attempt to make adjustments to the host tree should be done with great caution to avoid damaging the parasite.
Propagation of Tapinanthus ghikae
Tapinanthus ghikae is a parasitic plant belonging to the Loranthaceae family, commonly known as African mistletoe. The plant can be propagated using various methods that are discussed below.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Tapinanthus ghikae are small and require a host plant to grow. To propagate the plant using seeds, you need to collect ripe fruits from the host plant and extract the seeds. The seeds should then be sown on the surface of a potting mix and misted regularly with water. The pot should be placed in bright, indirect sunlight until the seeds germinate.
Cutting Propagation
An easier way to propagate Tapinanthus ghikae is through stem cuttings. Cut a healthy stem of the plant with a sharp knife just below a node or bud. Prepare a rooting hormone solution from a garden center and dip the cut end of the stem into the solution. Place the stem in a pot filled with a mixture of peat moss and sand. The pot should be kept in bright light with regular watering until the stem develops roots.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is also possible for Tapinanthus ghikae but it is not the most effective. If you have a mature plant and you want to propagate it, you can remove a small branch or shoot with roots attached to it. Repot the plant in a bigger container and provide it with the necessary care.
Propagation of Tapinanthus ghikae is relatively easy. With the appropriate care, you can propagate the plant using the methods described above.
Disease and Pest Management for Tapinanthus ghikae (Volkens & Schweinf.) Danser
Tapinanthus ghikae is a parasitic plant that attaches itself onto other plant hosts and derives its nutrients from them. As such, it is less susceptible to many diseases and pest infestations that affect other plants. However, some diseases and pests can still pose a threat to its growth and development.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Tapinanthus ghikae is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on plant leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage this disease, it is important to ensure adequate air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead watering, and remove any infected plant parts. Fungicides can be used to treat severe cases of powdery mildew.
Anthrax or blackleg is another disease that can affect Tapinanthus ghikae. This bacterial infection causes wilted, discolored leaves, as well as stem rot and plant death. To manage this disease, it is important to remove any infected plant parts, ensure proper drainage, and avoid over-watering. Fungicides can also be used to manage severe cases of anthrax.
Common Pests
Tapinanthus ghikae is less susceptible to pest infestations due to its parasitic nature. However, spider mites and aphids can still attack the plant and cause damage. Spider mites appear as tiny, red or brown pests on the leaves, while aphids are green or black and are usually found on the stems or undersides of leaves.
To manage spider mites and aphids, it is important to remove any infected plant parts, increase humidity around the plant, and spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encouraging natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, can also help manage these pests.
In conclusion, while Tapinanthus ghikae has natural defences against many pests and diseases, it is important to take active measures to manage any infestations that may occur. By ensuring proper care and maintenance, this beautiful parasitic plant can thrive and make an attractive addition to any garden or indoor space.
