Origin
Tarenna graveolens (S.Moore) Bremek. var. graveolens commonly known as "Mingeri in Cameroon," is a plant species native to tropical Africa. The plant is predominantly found in the lowland areas of West and Central Africa and can be located in countries such as Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, and Nigeria.
Common Names
Tarenna graveolens (S.Moore) Bremek. var. graveolens is known by several common names such as Mingeri, Banwami, Kprekprekouri, and Atoe. However, Mingeri is the most common name used for this shrub in Cameroon.
Uses
Tarenna graveolens (S.Moore) Bremek. var. graveolens has numerous medicinal properties and is widely used in traditional medicine in Cameroon and other African countries. The plant parts such as the roots, leaves, and stem bark are used to treat various ailments such as fever, gastrointestinal disorders, and malaria. The plant is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that make it effective in the treatment of these conditions. In addition to traditional medicine, the plant is also used in African cuisine. The leaves are used as a spice to add flavor to traditional dishes such as soup and sauce.
General Appearance
Tarenna graveolens (S.Moore) Bremek. var. graveolens is a small evergreen shrub that grows up to 3 meters tall. The leaves of the plant are simple, glossy, and dark green in color. The plant bears small, cream-colored flowers that bloom from July to October. The fruits are small, black berries that contain one or two seeds. The plant has a fragrant smell due to the presence of essential oils in its leaves and bark.
Growth Conditions of Tarenna graveolens var. graveolens
The Tarenna graveolens var. graveolens plant predominantly thrives in tropical rainforests and highlands in Africa and Madagascar. It is commonly found in the understory of forests and forest margins.
Light Requirements
Tarenna graveolens var. graveolens prefers partially shaded to full shaded areas. Direct sun exposure can burn their leaves and cause damage to the plant. Therefore, it is better to cultivate this plant under the shade of taller plants or other structures to provide the appropriate amount of light.
Temperature Requirements
The plant species prefers stable warm temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C, and it cannot withstand low temperatures. Frost or cold temperature severely affects Tarenna graveolens var. graveolens growth rate and may lead to a decrease in plant vitality.
Soil Needs
The Tarenna graveolens var. graveolens has a preference for rich, moist soils with good drainage. The soil should have a pH ranging from acidic to neutral, that is, between 5.0 to 7.0. The add-up of organic matter and forest soil helps in enhancing soil fertility, which is critical for the plant's growth.
Additionally, they also grow well in rocky soils as long as the soils are moist, well-drained with a pH level that ranges from acidic to neutral.
Cultivation Methods
Tarenna graveolens (S.Moore) Bremek. var. graveolens can be grown in a well-draining soil mix with good organic content. It thrives in partial shade or bright indirect light. The plant can be propagated through cuttings or seeds. Cuttings should be taken from the upper parts of the stems, and seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix.
Watering Needs
Tarenna graveolens (S.Moore) Bremek. var. graveolens should be watered regularly but not overwatered. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During the growing season, it is recommended to water the plant deeply about once a week. In winter, reduce watering to once every two weeks.
Fertilization
Tarenna graveolens (S.Moore) Bremek. var. graveolens benefits from regular feeding with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season. It should be fed every two to four weeks with a fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months.
Pruning
Tarenna graveolens (S.Moore) Bremek. var. graveolens can be pruned to maintain its shape and encourage bushy growth. Pruning should be done in the spring before new growth appears or after the plant has finished flowering. Trim back any dead or damaged stems, and prune any leggy or overgrown stems to encourage new growth. Avoid heavy pruning as it can damage the plant.
Propagation of Tarenna graveolens (S.Moore) Bremek. var. graveolens
Tarenna graveolens (S.Moore) Bremek. var. graveolens, commonly known as the Wild Coffee or Uvure, can be propagated through various methods such as seed propagation, cuttings, and division of the plant. The selection of a propagation method depends on the desired outcome and the available resources.
Seed Propagation
The easiest way to propagate Tarenna graveolens is through seed propagation. The seeds of Tarenna graveolens are small and require a well-draining soil medium for optimal germination. The ideal temperature for germination ranges from 25°C to 30°C. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 0.5 to 1 cm, and the soil should be kept moist until the seedlings emerge.
Cuttings Propagation
Tarenna graveolens can be propagated through stem cuttings. The propagation through cuttings is best done during the active growth phase of the plant, which is usually in the spring or summer. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free, and vigorous plants. The cuttings should be dipped in hormone rooting powder and planted in a well-draining medium and kept in a warm and humid environment until roots start to develop.
Division Propagation
Tarenna graveolens can also be propagated through division. The plant is divided by carefully digging up the whole plant and splitting it into smaller sections. Each section should have healthy shoots and roots. The divisions should be planted in well-draining soil and watered regularly until they become established.
Disease Management
Tarenna graveolens is susceptible to various diseases such as anthracnose, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. These diseases can affect the overall growth and productivity of the plant and should be managed early on.
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes brown lesions on the leaves and stem. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant parts, and improve air circulation around the plant. You can also apply fungicides as a preventive measure.
Leaf spot is another fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves, which can lead to defoliation. Management practices include removing and destroying infected plant parts, practicing good sanitation, and using fungicides when necessary.
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on the leaves and stem, leading to stunted growth and reduced yield. You can control it by removing and destroying affected plant parts, improving air circulation, and using fungicides when necessary.
Pest Management
Common pests that can attack Tarenna graveolens include mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can cause damage to the leaves, stems, and roots of the plant, leading to reduced yield and growth.
Mealybugs and scale insects are sucking pests that feed on the sap of the plant and cause wilting and yellowing of the leaves. You can manage mealybugs and scale insects by using natural enemies such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps. You can also use insecticides, but use them with caution, as they may harm beneficial insects.
Mites are tiny pests that are difficult to detect but can cause significant damage to the plant. They can cause yellowing and bronzing of the leaves and stunted growth. To manage mites, use insecticidal soaps or oils, or predatory mites.
Regular monitoring of the plant for any pest or disease symptoms is essential for preventing damage to the plant. Adequate sanitation and proper cultural management practices such as pruning, fertilization, and watering can also help prevent pest and disease outbreaks.
