Overview of Tapinanthus lamborayi plant
Tapinanthus lamborayi (De Wild.) Danser, commonly known as the Ngoropintha plant or African mistletoe, is a parasitic plant species belonging to the family Loranthaceae. It is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, particularly in Central and West Africa. This plant grows on other trees as a semi-parasite and can reach up to 1m in height.
General appearance of Tapinanthus lamborayi
The Tapinanthus lamborayi plant has thick stems, smooth leaves, and white or pinkish flowers that form clusters. The plant's branches are cylindrical and taper towards the end, with a bark-like appearance. The leaves are a bright green color and are oval-shaped, measuring 4-6 cm in length and 2-3 cm in breadth. The flowers of Tapinanthus lamborayi have a pungent smell, and the fruit is oval in shape, measuring 6-8mm in length.
Common names for Tapinanthus lamborayi
The Tapinanthus lamborayi plant is commonly known by various names in different African regions. The plant is known as 'Anangwi' in Cameroon, 'Ngulungu' in Angola, 'Khreiger' in Sudan, 'Dumakyi' in Ghana, and 'Ngoropintha' in Zimbabwe.
Uses of Tapinanthus lamborayi
Several traditional African medicine practices use the Tapinanthus lamborayi plant for its therapeutic properties. The plant extract is used to treat various ailments such as coughs, fever, sore throat, and stomach aches. The plant is also used as a fertility enhancer, as it is believed to increase sperm count and libido. Additionally, the Tapinanthus lamborayi plant's sap has adhesive properties, and it is used in the manufacturing of birdlime and trapping animals.
Light Requirements:
Tapinanthus lamborayi is known to grow well under bright, but indirect sunlight. It can tolerate partial shade, but direct sunlight is harmful to the plant. It is recommended to place the plant near a window that receives bright but indirect sunlight, or under a suitable artificial light source that provides similar light intensity and quality.
Temperature Requirements:
The ideal temperature range for Tapinanthus lamborayi growth is between 20°C to 30°C. The plant can tolerate higher or lower temperatures with proper care, but drastic temperature changes can stress the plant and cause it to shed off its leaves. It is essential to avoid exposing the plant to extreme temperatures or rapid temperature changes, such as placing it near a heater or air conditioning vent.
Soil Requirements:
Tapinanthus lamborayi grows best in well-aerated soils that are rich in organic matter and have adequate drainage. A recommended soil mixture includes a combination of peat moss, perlite or vermiculite, and orchid bark or coconut coir. It is essential to avoid overwatering the plant, as it can cause root rot and other fungal diseases. The plant should be watered only when the topsoil feels dry to the touch.
Cultivation of Tapinanthus Lamborayi
Tapihanthus Lamborayi is a rootless species and is therefore parasitic on other plants. It can be grown in a garden or a greenhouse, on the host plant, or in a pot on a host plant.
Watering Needs
Tapinanthus Lamborayi is a plant that needs constant moisture. It is recommended to water the plant two to three times a week to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Since it is rootless, the water must be applied to the host plant.
Fertilization
Since Tapinanthus Lamborayi is a parasitic plant, it does not need much fertilizer. However, in the case where it is being grown in a pot or container, it can benefit from occasional fertilization. Use a slow-release fertilizer and apply according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Pruning
Tapinanthus Lamborayi does not require much pruning as it is a parasitic plant that grows on the host plant. However, it is recommended to remove any damaged leaves or stems from the plant to promote healthy growth and avoid disease.
Propagation of Tapinanthus Lamborayi
Tapinanthus lamborayi can be propagated using various methods such as seed propagation, stem cuttings, and layering.
Seed propagation
The seeds of Tapinanthus lamborayi can be collected from the mature fruits that ripen around May to August. Once harvested, the seeds must be planted in well-draining soil in a seedling tray or a pot. The seeds should be planted in shallow soil and kept moist until they start to germinate. The germination period takes about 1 to 3 months, and it is best to keep the soil undisturbed during this time. Once the seedlings have grown to a certain size, they can be transplanted to permanent pots.
Stem cuttings
Another method to propagate Tapinanthus lamborayi is through stem cuttings. For this method to be successful, select a healthy stem with 2 to 3 nodes. Cut the stem with a sterile and sharp knife, and remove the leaves from the bottom node. The cutting can be dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root growth and then planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be kept moist and in a shaded area until new growth appears, which may take several weeks. Once the cutting has rooted and have grown to a certain size, they can be transplanted to permanent pots.
Layering
Layering is another propagation method that can be successful with Tapinanthus lamborayi. For this method, select a stem that is close to the ground, and make a small cut on the stem. Gently bend the stem down to the soil, and make sure to cover the injured part of the stem with soil. The stem can then be held in place with some stakes or rocks. Within a few months, new roots should sprout from the buried part of the stem, and a new plant will form. Once the new plant has grown to a certain size, it can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted to a permanent pot.
Disease and Pest Management for Tapinanthus lamborayi
Tapinanthus lamborayi is a parasite plant that grows on other plants and trees. As such, it is susceptible to certain diseases and pests that may affect its host plant. It is essential to maintain healthy host plants as they support the growth and development of the mistletoe. Proper disease and pest management will enable the parasite to thrive and produce seeds for reproduction. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that may affect T. lamborayi and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Leaf Spot: This is a common disease caused by fungi that attack the leaves. Symptoms include round or irregular brown spots on the leaf surfaces. To manage this disease, remove all infected leaves and apply a fungicide to the plant.
Rust: Rust is another disease caused by fungi that can affect tapinanthus lamborayi. Symptoms include small orange, yellow or red spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove all infected leaves and apply a fungicide.
Pests
Scale Insects: These are small insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the mistletoe. They suck sap from the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow and wilt. To manage this pest, you can use an insecticidal soap or oil spray. Alternatively, use a soft brush to remove the scales manually.
Mealybugs: These are small, white, cottony insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They are commonly found in the leaf axils and other protected areas. To manage this pest, you can use an insecticidal soap or oil spray. Alternatively, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove the mealybugs manually.
Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause distorted growth, stunted leaves, and yellowing. To manage this pest, you can use an insecticidal soap or oil spray. Alternatively, use a soft brush to remove the aphids manually.
Regular inspection and monitoring of the plant can help you detect and prevent diseases and pests from damaging the mistletoe. It is essential to use the appropriate methods and tools to manage these problems effectively. Keeping the plant healthy will help it resist diseases and pests and enable it to reproduce successfully.
