Tapinanthus kayseri (Engl.) Danser
Tapinanthus kayseri (Engl.) Danser is a parasitic plant that belongs to the family Loranthaceae. It is commonly known as the Kayser's Mistletoe and is native to Africa, particularly in Tanzania and Kenya.
Common Names
Apart from Kayser's Mistletoe, Tapinanthus kayseri has other common names, including Red Mistletoe and African Mistletoe.
Appearance
Tapinanthus kayseri is a small, evergreen shrub that can grow up to 1m in height. It has a woody stem and leathery, opposite leaves that are lance-shaped and about 2-7 cm long. The plant's flowers are small, greenish-white, and occur in clusters. The fruits are berry-like and about 4-6 mm long, with a red or orange outer covering and a sticky thick pulp.
Uses
The Kayser's Mistletoe has a medicinal value and is used in traditional African medicine to treat various ailments, including coughs, fever, and stomach problems. The plant's leaves and stem are boiled in water to make a tea that is ingested orally. The extract from the plant's seeds is also used as an adhesive for pottery.
Light Requirements
T. kayseri is a hemiparasitic plant that requires sunlight for photosynthesis. Lack of adequate light can significantly reduce its growth rate. In its natural habitat, the plant grows on the branches of its host tree to receive enough sunlight. Therefore, it is recommended to keep it in a location with direct sunlight or expose it to artificial light for at least 6 hours a day.
Temperature Requirements
T. kayseri grows well in a wide range of temperatures from 15°C to 35°C. However, it does not tolerate extreme temperatures or sudden temperature changes. It is essential to maintain a temperature of around 25°C, which is the optimum range for its growth. During the winter months, it can tolerate slightly lower temperatures, but frost should be avoided at all times.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers a well-draining soil with high organic matter content. It is often seen growing on the branches of certain tree species, indicating that it does not require soil to grow. Nevertheless, it is advisable to plant it in a well-draining soil mix that has good water retention capacity. Wet soil can cause root rot and affect the overall growth of the plant.
Cultivation of Tapinanthus kayseri (Engl.) Danser
Tapinanthus kayseri is a parasitic plant that grows on the branches and stems of the host trees, including Acacia senegal, but does not harm the host. Therefore, growing this plant requires selecting the host plant first.
The ideal conditions for cultivating Tapinanthus kayseri include a warm climate with temperatures ranging between 20-30°C, and humidity levels of not less than 60%. The plant can thrive in both direct and indirect sunlight.
The first step to grow Tapinanthus kayseri is to collect the plant's seeds from existing specimens. To enhance germination, carefully cut the fruit open, remove the seeds, and soak them in warm water for 24 hours.
Watering needs of Tapinanthus kayseri
Tapinanthus kayseri plants that are growing on host trees do not require watering as such plants obtain their essential nutrients from the host trees' sap.
However, if cultivated as an ornamental plant, it is necessary to water Tapinanthus kayseri regularly. The recommended technique is to water the plant twice a week. Overwatering should be avoided, as it may cause root rot.
Fertilization of Tapinanthus kayseri
Tapinanthus kayseri plants do not require fertilizers, as they get all necessary nutrients from the host trees.
However, when grown as an ornamental plant, the fertilization regime used for the host plant can be periodic; this means that it must be fertilized at the same time as the host plant to help it thrive well.
Pruning Tapinanthus kayseri
Pruning Tapinanthus kayseri is not necessary because it grows as a parasite on the host plant. Nevertheless, you can remove deadwood and unhealthy branches of the host tree, which may affect the growth of the plant.
To remove the parasitic plant when it grows on unwanted areas, manual removal or trimming or the application of herbicides like glyphosate can be considered.
Propagation methods for Tapinanthus kayseri
Tapinanthus kayseri is known for its parasitic nature. Therefore, propagating them from seeds can be challenging. However, propagation by using the host tree is possible.
Propagation using host tree
The host trees must be healthy and have a sturdy trunk. Propagate Tapinanthus kayseri plant by attaching some of its stems to the host tree. Choose a branch that is about 2-3 years old and free of any damage.
Clean the bark of the host tree and gently scratch the bark surface so that the T. kayseri stem can gain entry. Apply rooting hormone on the stem and bark to hasten root growth. Securely tie the stem to the branch using a soft twine or wire. Water the stem sparingly to prevent fungal growth.
The T. kayseri stem will establish itself on the host tree and start sucking nutrients and water from the host plant. Over time, the stem will grow and develop roots to anchor it to the branch.
Conclusion
Propagation of Tapinanthus kayseri is achievable with the use of the host tree. By following the methods above, gardeners can propagate the plant successfully. The plant's propagation will aid in restoring degraded ecosystems and inspire others to engage in gardening and horticulture practices.
Disease and Pest Management for Tapinanthus kayseri
Tapinanthus kayseri (Engl.) Danser, commonly known as the African mistletoe, is a parasitic plant that grows on the branches of various trees. These plants are susceptible to a variety of diseases and pests. Some of the common diseases and pests that affect Tapinanthus kayseri include:
Diseases
1. Leaf rust: This disease is identified by the rust-colored spots on the leaves. It causes the leaves to drop prematurely, resulting in stunted growth. To manage the disease, prune all affected leaves, and dispose of them properly. Apply a fungicide to the remaining healthy leaves.
2. Powdery mildew: This disease appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves, and it causes the leaves to curl, yellow, and fall. To control this disease, remove the infected leaves and dispose of them properly. Spray a fungicide on the remaining leaves.
Pests
1. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems of Tapinanthus kayseri. To manage mealybugs, wipe down the plant with a cotton ball soaked in alcohol. Repeat this process several times until the mealybugs disappear.
2. Scale insects: These insects secrete a sticky substance on the leaves and stems. They also cause yellowing and stunted growth. To control scale insects, wipe down the plant with a cotton ball soaked in soapy water. Repeat the process several times to manage the infestation.
3. Spider mites: These pests cause yellowing of the leaves and the formation of small webs on the plant. To control spider mites, spray the plant with a steady stream of water to knock off the pests. You can also use a systemic insecticide to manage the infestation.
Regular inspection and monitoring of Tapinanthus kayseri plants can help detect and manage pests and diseases effectively. Early management can prevent the spread of disease and pests, ultimately leading to better plant health and growth.
