General Description
Teclea verdoorniana Exell & Mendonça is a flowering shrub that belongs to the citrus family Rutaceae. It is native to Southern Africa and can grow up to 6 meters in height. The plant is known for its beautiful flowers and unique fruits which resemble small oranges that are edible, but not commonly consumed.
Appearance
The leaves of Teclea verdoorniana Exell & Mendonça are simple, alternate, and rounded in shape, which are green and glossy in color, with a leathery texture. The flowers are white, fragrant, and bloom in clusters from December to February. The fruits of this plant are small and orange in color, usually around 2 cm in diameter.
Common Names
Teclea verdoorniana Exell & Mendonça is commonly known as the Green Teclea, Green Hop-bush, umGwenye or imfibingele
Uses and Benefits
The plant has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes, particularly in the treatment of respiratory infections, fever, and asthma. The bark and leaves are also used in the treatment of skin diseases, burns, and wounds. The fruit is edible and used in jam-making. The plant is also used as an ornamental plant for landscaping due to its attractive flowers and foliage.
Overall, Teclea verdoorniana Exell & Mendonça is a versatile plant known for its medicinal and ornamental uses, making it a valuable addition to any garden or landscape.
Light Requirements
Teclea verdoorniana typically grows best in bright but indirect light. Direct sunlight can cause leaf burn and stunted growth. It is recommended to place the plant in a shaded area with filtered light, for example, near a north-facing window.
Temperature Requirements
The plant tolerates a wide range of temperatures, but performs best when grown in temperatures between 65°F (18°C) and 75°F (24°C). Lower temperatures can slow down plant growth and cause leaf drop, while excessively high temperatures can cause leaf scorching and reduce the plant's overall health.
Soil Requirements
Teclea verdoorniana prefers well-draining and fertile soil. The plant also thrives in slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.5. It is recommended to use a mix of loam, sand, and peat moss when planting, and also to amend the soil with organic matter to improve its texture and nutrient content. The plant can also benefit from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth.
Cultivation
Teclea verdoorniana requires a well-drained soil that does not hold too much moisture. It is best to plant it in a location that receives some shade because direct sunlight can cause leaf scorching. In addition, it prefers a warm climate with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30°C, making it ideal for tropical and subtropical regions.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is essential for Teclea verdoorniana's health and growth. Watering should be frequent in the early months to establish the plant and then reduced as it matures. It requires moderate to high amounts of water, so it is important to monitor soil moisture and water accordingly. Overwatering should be avoided as it can cause root rot and other plant diseases.
Fertilization
Like most plants, Teclea verdoorniana requires essential nutrients to grow and mature. Fertilization should be done during the growing season, which is in spring and summer, using a balanced fertilizer with a 10-10-10 ratio or similar NPK composition. Fertilizers should be applied according to the instructions on the package, and excessive application must be avoided as it can cause leaf scorching and other plant problems.
Pruning
Teclea verdoorniana requires minimal pruning, and only dead or diseased branches should be removed. Pruning should be done during the dormant season, which is usually in late winter or early spring. Use a clean and sharp pruning tool to prevent the spread of plant diseases. Avoid overpruning as it can lead to stunted growth or death of the plant.
Propagation of Teclea verdoorniana Exell & Mendonça
Teclea verdoorniana Exell & Mendonça, commonly known as African cherry orange or Zulu cherry, is a species of flowering plant in the family Rutaceae. It is native to Africa and is widely cultivated for its edible fruits and ornamental value. Propagation is an essential aspect of plant cultivation, and several methods can be used to propagate Teclea verdoorniana.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Teclea verdoorniana can be done by seeds. The seeds should be collected from mature fruits and soaked in water for about 24 hours to soften the seed coat. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix in a container or seedling tray, making sure they are covered with soil to a depth of about 1 cm. Water the soil regularly to ensure adequate moisture, and place the container in a warm, well-lit area. Germination may take between two to six weeks. When the seedlings are about 10 cm tall, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Cutting Propagation
The cutting propagation method involves taking cuttings from the parent plant and rooting them in soil or water. Cuttings of Teclea verdoorniana should be taken from a healthy, mature plant and should have at least two nodes. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to promote root growth. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix, water to ensure adequate moisture, and place it in a warm, humid, and well-lit area. Roots may start growing in about two to four weeks.
Air Layering
Air layering is a method that involves inducing root formation on a stem that is still attached to the parent plant. For Teclea verdoorniana, make a small incision in the stem, insert moist sphagnum moss or soil into the incision, and wrap with plastic to maintain humidity. Roots will start to form after a few weeks, and the propagated plant can be cut from the original plant and transplanted into a pot with well-draining soil.
Propagation of Teclea verdoorniana can be achieved using either seed propagation, cutting propagation, or air layering. The most suitable method depends on the availability of the materials and the desired results. With proper care and attention, the propagated plants will grow well and produce fruits in due time.
Disease and Pest Management for Teclea verdoorniana Exell & Mendonça
Teclea verdoorniana Exell & Mendonça, also known as African cherry orange or umzumbe orange, is susceptible to various diseases and pests. However, with proper care and management, most of these issues can be prevented or controlled.
Common Diseases
One of the common diseases that affect Teclea verdoorniana is anthracnose. It appears as small, circular, tan to brown spots on the leaves, which later on enlarge and may cause defoliation. To manage this disease, it is recommended to prune and destroy any infected parts, avoid overhead irrigation, and maintain good air circulation around the tree.
Bacterial blight is another disease that may affect the plant. It causes water-soaked spots on leaves and fruits, which later on become necrotic. This disease can be controlled by removing and destroying any infected parts and avoiding over-watering.
Common Pests
The African cherry orange may also be attacked by pests such as mites and scales. Mites cause yellowing and curling of leaves and can be managed by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap.
Scales feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. They can be controlled by pruning and disposing of heavily infested branches or using oil sprays on the plant.
General Pest and Disease Management
To prevent the occurrence of pests and diseases in Teclea verdoorniana, it is recommended to follow good cultural practices such as proper sanitation and hygiene, maintaining proper watering and fertilization regimes, and inspecting the plant regularly for any signs of infestation or disease.
If any pests or diseases do occur, it is essential to take action promptly to prevent further spread. Prevention is critical in managing diseases and pests in Teclea verdoorniana. By following these guidelines, you can keep your plant healthy and beautiful.
