Overview
Tarenna pallidula Hiern var. oligoneura (K.Schum.) N.Hallé is a plant species that belongs to the family Rubiaceae. It is native to Africa and is commonly found in Angola, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Tanzania. This plant species has various common names such as the "yellow tarenna," "thin-veined tarenna," or "small-leaved tarenna."
General Appearance
The Tarenna pallidula Hiern var. oligoneura is a shrub that typically grows up to 4 meters in height. The leaves of this plant species are glossy and small, measuring about 2-3 cm long and 1-1.5 cm wide. The leaves are ovate to elliptical, and the apex is rounded. The veins on the leaves are thin and can hardly be seen. The flowers are small and yellow-green, with the petals fused into a tube. The fruits produced by this plant species are about 5-6 mm long and are purple-black.
Uses
The Tarenna pallidula Hiern var. oligoneura has various medicinal properties. The roots of this plant species can be used to treat dysentery, abdominal pains, and fever. The bark of the plant can also be used to treat diarrhea, stomach issues, and vomiting. In some communities, the plant is also used as a source of firewood.
In addition to its medicinal uses, the Tarenna pallidula Hiern var. oligoneura is also used in ornamental gardening. Due to its attractive leaves and pretty flowers, the plant can be grown as an indoor plant or in outdoor garden beds with well-draining soil and partial shade.
In conclusion, the Tarenna pallidula Hiern var. oligoneura is a fascinating plant species that has various uses, from medicinal to ornamental. Its small size and pretty leaves make it an excellent choice for indoor gardening, while its medicinal properties make it a valuable resource for traditional health practices in African communities.
hereGrowth conditions for Tarenna pallidula Hiern var. oligoneura (K.Schum.) N.Hallé
Light: Tarenna pallidula Hiern var. oligoneura is a species that thrives in filtered light instead of direct sunlight. A 50% shade is ideal for its optimal growth and development. In its natural habitat, it grows under the canopy of taller trees, where it receives a limited amount of light. Direct exposure to strong sunlight can cause leaf damage and stunted growth.
Temperature: This plant species is adapted to moderate temperatures, and it grows best in warm and humid conditions. A temperature range of 20°C to 27°C is optimal for its growth and development. It can tolerate low temperatures of up to 10°C but may die if the temperature drops below this. High temperatures of above 35°C can cause wilting and leaf damage.
Soil: Tarenna pallidula Hiern var. oligoneura prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a PH range of 5.5-6.5. It is a species that is adapted to low nutrient soils but can benefit from the application of organic fertilizers. It is also sensitive to soil salinity and should be grown in soils with low salt levels.
Water: This species requires regular watering to maintain its growth. It should be watered when the soil surface is dry, and care should be taken not to overwater as it can cause root rot. It is important to ensure that the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging. During the dry season, this plant may require more frequent watering.
Humidity: Tarenna pallidula Hiern var. oligoneura prefers high humidity levels, and it can benefit from misting or placing it in a humid location. A relative humidity of 60% and above is optimal for its growth and development.
Propagation: This plant species can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings. Seeds should be sown in seeds trays or pots filled with well-drained soil, and they should be covered lightly with soil. The stem cuttings should be taken from healthy plants, and they should be rooted in a rooting hormone before being transplanted into well-drained soil.
Cultivation Methods
Tarenna pallidula Hiern var. oligoneura (K.Schum.) N.Hallé grows best in a partially shaded area, such as under a tree canopy or near a north-facing window. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A good potting mix for this plant is a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite in equal parts.
Watering Needs
This plant has moderate to high watering needs and prefers consistently moist soil. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Water deeply, so the moisture reaches the plant's roots. Avoid overwatering or allowing the soil to become waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize Tarenna pallidula Hiern var. oligoneura (K.Schum.) N.Hallé every 2-4 weeks during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength, and make sure to apply it to moist soil. Avoid fertilizing during the winter, when the plant is in its dormant period.
Pruning
Prune Tarenna pallidula Hiern var. oligoneura (K.Schum.) N.Hallé regularly to promote bushy growth and prevent leggy stems. Use clean and sharp pruning shears to remove any damaged or diseased leaves, or any dead or broken stems. If the plant becomes too large, you can also prune it back to a more manageable size.
Propagation of Tarenna pallidula Hiern var. oligoneura
Tarenna pallidula Hiern var. oligoneura is a beautiful plant known for its attractive foliage and white flowers. If you're interested in propagating this plant, there are several methods you can use. Below, we've outlined some of the most effective propagation techniques.
Propagation by seeds
One way to propagate Tarenna pallidula Hiern var. oligoneura is by using seeds. To do this, collect ripe fruits from the parent plant and remove the pulp. Rinse the seeds thoroughly and soak them in water for a day or two. After soaking, sow the seeds in a nursery bed filled with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist, and the seeds should germinate within a few weeks.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Another way to propagate Tarenna pallidula Hiern var. oligoneura is through stem cuttings. To do this, take cuttings from the parent plant in spring or summer. Make sure the cuttings are about 3-4 inches long and have several nodes. Dip the ends of the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist, and the cuttings should root within a few weeks.
Propagation by division
Tarenna pallidula Hiern var. oligoneura can also be propagated by division. To do this, carefully dig up the parent plant and separate the clumps into smaller sections. Each section should have several crowns and roots. Replant the smaller sections in pots or directly in the ground. Keep the soil moist, and the new plants should establish themselves within a few weeks.
No matter which propagation method you choose, it's essential to provide the young plants with appropriate care and attention to encourage their growth and development. With proper care, you can enjoy beautiful Tarenna pallidula Hiern var. oligoneura plants in no time!
Disease Management
Tarenna pallidula Hiern var. oligoneura is susceptible to various fungal and bacterial diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant. The following are common diseases that may affect this plant, and ways to manage them:
Anthracnose
This fungal disease affects the leaves, stems and flowers of the plant and causes spotting, wilting and blight. It is caused by Colletotrichum species. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy infected plant material promptly, practice good sanitation, and apply fungicides containing active ingredients such as copper, mancozeb or chlorothalonil.
Cercospora Leaf Spot
Another fungal disease that causes spotting and blight of the plant's foliage. It is caused by the Cercospora fungus. To manage Cercospora Leaf Spot, remove and destroy infected material promptly, practice good sanitation, and apply fungicides containing active ingredients like copper, mancozeb or chlorothalonil.
Pest Management
Tarenna pallidula Hiern var. oligoneura is also at risk of insect and mite pests. The following are common pests that may attack this plant, and ways to manage them:
Scale Insects
These insects sap the plant's nutrients, causing wilting and yellowing of the leaves. They produce a sticky substance called honeydew that can attract fungal diseases. To manage scale insects, prune and dispose of the infested parts of the plant, apply insecticides containing active ingredients such as neem oil, insecticidal soap, or horticultural oil.
Spider Mites
These tiny pests suck the plant's sap, causing stippling of its leaves and wilting. They multiply quickly and can cause significant damage if not managed early. To manage spider mites, apply biological controls like predators such as ladybugs, sprays containing insecticidal soap or neem oil, or use a strong jet of water to dislodge them from the plant.
Overall, proper plant care practices such as regular watering, adequate fertilization, and proper pruning will help maintain the health of Tarenna pallidula Hiern var. oligoneura and reduce the risk of diseases and pests.
