Overview: Tapinanthus globiferus (A.Rich.) Tiegh. subsp. apodanthus (Sprague) Balle
Tapinanthus globiferus (A.Rich.) Tiegh. subsp. apodanthus (Sprague) Balle is a parasitic plant that belongs to the family of Loranthaceae. This particular subspecies is commonly found in Africa, where it commonly parasitizes on trees such as the Acacia spp., Commiphora spp., and Terminalia spp. Tapinanthus globiferus is also known by various other names such as the globular mistletoe and African sandalwood.
Appearance
The plant's general appearance is that of a green-yellow bushy bush maintained by a host plant. The plant's leaves are simple, ovate, and approximately 3.5 cm long. It has a branching stem that is 7-20 cm long, which enables it to attach itself to its host plant.
The flowers are small and consist of four petals and four stamens. The flowers' color ranges from pale-yellow to whitish, while the fruits are globular, with a diameter of 1-2 cm. The fruits contain numerous seeds which are usually dispersed by birds that feed on them.
Uses
T. globiferus is widely used in African traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, such as stomach disorders, constipation, and respiratory problems. The plant is believed to exhibit antidiarrheal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activity due to its high content of flavonoids and phenols.
More recently, studies have focused on the potential anticancer properties of T. globiferus. Researchers have identified compounds such as ursolic acid and oleanolic acid in the plants, which show promising results in fighting cancer cells.
In addition to its medicinal uses, T. globiferus also plays a significant role in the ecosystem. The plant provides shelter and food for various birds and insects. It also contributes to controlling soil erosion, thus helping to maintain the ecological balance in its habitat.
Light Requirements
Tapinanthus globiferus subsp. apodanthus requires a bright and sunny location for healthy growth. It thrives well in places where it can receive full sun and partial shading during the day. Direct sunlight exposure for prolonged periods might cause damage to the leaves and hinder growth.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Tapinanthus globiferus subsp. apodanthus is between 60 and 75°F (15 and 24°C). It can tolerate higher temperature ranges up to 90°F (32°C), but that may cause drying of the plant's tissues. Cold temperature below 50°F (10°C) can be fatal to the plant. The plant can be grown indoors but needs to be placed in an area with consistent temperatures and a steady flow of air circulation.
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives well in soil that is well-drained and organically enriched. The soil should also have a slightly acidic to neutral pH level, ranging from 5.0 to 7.5. Tapinanthus globiferus subsp. apodanthus is an epiphyte, so it's often grown on other host trees like acacia and Tasmanian oak. It also grows in rocky soils or soils that have low fertility and moderate water retention ability.
Cultivation methods
Tapinanthus globiferus subsp. apodanthus is a parasitic plant that thrives on trees. As such, it requires specific cultivation methods for it to grow successfully. When planting this plant, you need to look for a host tree that the plant can parasitize. Common host trees include eucalyptus, acacias, and citrus trees. The best time to plant Tapinanthus globiferus subsp. apodanthus is during the dormant season, which is typically in winter. During this time, the plant is not actively growing, and it's easier to handle. Before planting, ensure that the host tree is trimmed to allow enough light to pass through the branches. Once you've identified the host tree, you can plant the Tapinanthus globiferus subsp. apodanthus on the trunk or branches of the tree.Watering needs
Tapinanthus globiferus subsp. apodanthus thrives in humid conditions, so it requires regular watering. However, since it's a parasitic plant, it receives most of its water and nutrients from the host tree. As such, you don't need to water the plant regularly, but you need to ensure that the host tree is well-watered. When watering the plant, you don't need to apply water directly to the plant's roots. Instead, focus on watering the host tree, which will, in turn, supply the plant with enough water.Fertilization
Since Tapinanthus globiferus subsp. apodanthus derives most of its nutrients from the host tree, you don't need to fertilize it. However, you need to ensure that the host tree is well-fertilized to provide enough nutrients to both the tree and the parasitic plant. You can use organic fertilizers, such as compost and manure, to fertilize the host tree. Apply the fertilizers around the base of the tree, which will allow the roots to absorb the nutrients.Pruning
Pruning Tapinanthus globiferus subsp. apodanthus is not necessary since it doesn't grow independently. However, it's essential to prune the host tree to allow enough light to pass through the branches. You should also prune any dead or damaged branches or limbs on the host tree. This will prevent the parasitic plant from infecting or damaging the tree, which could affect its growth and survival.Propagation of Tapinanthus globiferus subsp. apodanthus
Tapinanthus globiferus subsp. apodanthus can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual propagation
Sexual propagation of Tapinanthus globiferus subsp. apodanthus involves the use of seeds. The berries of the parent plant should be allowed to fully ripen before harvesting. The seeds can then be removed from the berries and dried for a few days. The dried seeds can be sown in pots filled with well-drained soil and kept under moist, partially shaded conditions. Germination usually takes place within a few weeks.
Asexual propagation
Asexual propagation of Tapinanthus globiferus subsp. apodanthus involves the use of stem cuttings or layering.
Stem Cuttings: Stem cuttings should be taken from healthy parent plants during the growing season. The cuttings should be approximately 10 to 15 cm long, and all leaves apart from the top two should be removed. The cut end of the stem should be treated with rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mixture. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in a warm and partially shaded area. The cutting should develop roots within 2 to 3 weeks after which it can be transferred to a larger pot and eventually to the ground.
Layering: Layering is another asexual propagation method, and it involves bending a low-growing stem of the parent plant to the ground and securing it in place with wire or a clothespin. The area where the stem makes contact with the ground should be lightly scraped to allow for the development of roots. After about six weeks, the stem should have developed a sufficient root system, and it can be cut from the parent plant and transplanted to a new location.
Disease Management
Tapinanthus globiferus subsp. apodanthus is a relatively hardy plant that is not known to be susceptible to many diseases. However, like all plants, it is not entirely immune to diseases. Here are some common diseases that may affect the plant and how to manage them:
- Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant, causing brown spots to appear. The best way to manage this disease is to remove any infected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide.
- Powdery mildew: This is another fungal disease that is caused by humid conditions. It appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. The best way to manage this disease is to maintain good air circulation around the plant and spray it with a fungicide.
- Root rot: This is a common disease that affects many different types of plants. It is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. To prevent root rot, make sure to plant the Tapinanthus globiferus subsp. apodanthus in a well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Pest Management
Here are some common pests that may affect Tapinanthus globiferus subsp. apodanthus and how to manage them:
- Spider mites: These are tiny insects that suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are also sap-sucking insects that can cause damage to the leaves and stems of the plant. The best way to manage mealybugs is to physically remove them from the plant or use a systemic insecticide.
- Scale insects: These insects are similar to mealybugs in that they are sap-sucking. They appear as small, waxy bumps on the stems and leaves of the plant. The best way to manage scale insects is to physically remove them from the plant or use a systemic insecticide.
