Origin
Tarenna graveolens (S.Moore) Bremek. var. impolita Bridson is a plant species that is commonly found in Africa, specifically in Cameroon and Nigeria. It grows in the rainforests and is typically found at an elevation of about 200-1,000 meters above sea level.
Common Names
Tarenna graveolens (S.Moore) Bremek. var. impolita Bridson is commonly known by a number of names including "Kobina" and "Nsama" (in Cameroon), and "Yene" and "Gane" (in Nigeria).
Uses
The root and leaves of Tarenna graveolens (S.Moore) Bremek. var. impolita Bridson are used in traditional medicine in Africa for a variety of ailments including stomach problems, snake bites, and to improve appetite. The leaves are also used to treat fever.
In addition, the bark of the plant is used for tanning leather and the wood is used for making tools and furniture.
General Appearance
Tarenna graveolens (S.Moore) Bremek. var. impolita Bridson is a shrub or small tree that grows to a height of around 3-5 meters. The plant has simple, opposite leaves that are elliptic in shape and have a leathery texture. The leaves are dark green and shiny on the upper surface, while the lower surface is covered in fine hairs.
The flowers of the plant are small and white, and are arranged in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a small, round berry that is green when immature and turns purple-black when ripe.
Growth Conditions for Tarenna graveolens (S.Moore) Bremek. var. impolita Bridson
Tarenna graveolens (S.Moore) Bremek. var. impolita Bridson is a tropical plant that thrives in warm and humid climates. Its growth conditions include:
Light
The plant requires bright, indirect light to grow properly. It should be protected from direct sunlight as it can damage the leaves. It is best suited for growing in areas that receive partial sunlight or filtered light.
Temperature
The plant requires warm temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C to grow properly. It cannot tolerate temperatures below 10°C, and frost can harm the plant. In colder climates, it is best grown indoors.
Soil
The soil should be moist and well-drained, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. The plant should be grown in a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. It requires regular watering, but excessive watering can lead to root rot.
Fertilizer
The plant should be fed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every two to three months during the growing season. Over-fertilizing the plant can lead to burnt leaves and stunted growth.
Humidity
The plant requires high humidity levels to grow properly. It can be misted regularly or grown in a humidified environment. It is also recommended to place a tray of water nearby to increase the humidity level around the plant.
Cultivation of Tarenna graveolens (S.Moore) Bremek. var. impolita Bridson
Tarenna graveolens (S.Moore) Bremek. var. impolita Bridson is commonly known as the Kenyan tarenna. This plant species is found in various locations, including Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Cultivating the Kenyan tarenna is easy since it is a hardy plant that grows well with minimal attention.
Watering Needs of Tarenna graveolens (S.Moore) Bremek. var. impolita Bridson
Watering the Kenyan tarenna plant is crucial, especially during the dry season. You'll need to provide the plant with enough water to keep the soil moist. Watering should be done deeply and less frequently to allow for proper absorption. This method helps the roots to grow deep into the soil, making the plant more resistant to drought. However, avoid overwatering since it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization of Tarenna graveolens (S.Moore) Bremek. var. impolita Bridson
The Kenyan tarenna plant does not require frequent fertilization. However, when necessary, apply organic fertilizers like compost manure or compost tea. The application should be done during the rainy season to allow for proper absorption. Fertilization should be done once or twice a year if the soil is poor and lacking essential nutrients. Always follow the recommended fertilization practices to prevent over-fertilization.
Pruning of Tarenna graveolens (S.Moore) Bremek. var. impolita Bridson
Pruning the Kenyan tarenna plant is essential to improve its shape and promote healthy growth. You should prune the plant during the growing season by removing any dead or yellowing leaves, damaged stems, and soft tissue. Prune any overcrowded branches to promote air circulation and light penetration. Avoid pruning the plant during the dormant season to prevent affecting its growth rate.
Overall, cultivating Tarenna graveolens (S.Moore) Bremek. var. impolita Bridson is a simple process that requires minimal attention. Adequate watering, fertilization, and pruning are crucial to promote healthy growth and improve the plant's overall appearance.
Propagation of Tarenna graveolens var. impolita Bridson
Tarenna graveolens (S.Moore) Bremek. var. impolita Bridson, commonly known as forest bells, is a shrub that belongs to the family Rubiaceae. It is native to tropical Africa and is known for its bell-shaped flowers and strong fragrance.
Propagation Methods
The following are the different methods of propagating Tarenna graveolens var. impolita Bridson:
Seed Propagation
The most common propagation method for Tarenna graveolens var. impolita Bridson is through seeds. The seeds should be collected when they are fully ripe and sown immediately. Before sowing, the seeds should be soaked in water for a few hours to soften the hard seed coat, which will help in promoting germination. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until the seedlings emerge. Once the seedlings have grown to a considerable height, they can be transplanted to a permanent location.
Cutting Propagation
Tarenna graveolens var. impolita Bridson can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from the upper parts of the plant, which are free from diseases and pests. The cuttings should be about 10 cm long and should have a few leaves attached. The leaves should be removed from the lower part of the cutting, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cutting should be inserted in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist until roots develop.
Layering Propagation
Layering is another propagation method that can be used for Tarenna graveolens var. impolita Bridson. This method involves bending a low branch of the plant to the ground and making a small incision at the point where the branch meets the soil. The incision should be dusted with rooting hormone and covered with soil. New roots will grow from the incision, and once they have grown to a considerable length, the new plant can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted to a permanent location.
These are the main propagation methods that can be used for Tarenna graveolens var. impolita Bridson. It is essential to ensure that the propagation method used is appropriate for the plant and that the plant is grown under suitable conditions to ensure successful growth.
Disease Management
Tarenna graveolens is susceptible to several diseases that can affect its growth and productivity. The common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Leaf spot disease: This is a fungal disease that causes small, circular, brownish-gray spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage leaf spots, remove and destroy infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Fungicidal sprays can also be used to control the disease.
- Powdery mildew: This disease is characterized by white, powdery growth on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can be controlled by maintaining good air circulation around the plant, avoiding overhead watering, and applying fungicidal sprays.
- Root rot: This is a fungal disease that causes the roots to rot and become mushy. Plants affected by root rot may appear wilted and have stunted growth. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that the soil has good drainage.
Pest Management
Several pests can also affect the growth and productivity of Tarenna graveolens. Common pests that affect this plant include:
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can be controlled by physically removing them with a cloth or cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, or by using insecticidal soaps.
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and curled leaves. They can be controlled by physically removing them with a blast of water or by using insecticidal soaps or oils.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are small arachnids that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing yellowing and discoloration. They can be controlled by regularly spraying the leaves of the plant with water and by using insecticidal soaps or oils.
Regular inspection of the plant and timely intervention can help prevent and manage disease and pest problems of Tarenna graveolens.
