Origin
Telosma africana (N. E. Br.) N. E. Br. is a climbing plant which belongs to the family Apocynaceae and is commonly known as African spider flower. It is native to tropical Africa, particularly in West Africa, and can also be found in Madagascar and southern Asia.
Common Names
Apart from African spider flower, Telosma africana is also known by other common names. In English, it is referred to as African milkweed vine, African milkweed, and spider flower vine. In other languages, it is known as 'Gbeske' in the Yoruba language of Nigeria, 'Sang-dangkok' in Thai, and 'Akom' in Cameroon.
Uses
The plant has various uses across different cultures. It is used in traditional medicine to treat conditions such as constipation, fever, and stomach disorders. The juice extracted from the stem bark is believed to possess antimalarial properties. In Cameroon, the plant is used in the treatment of mental health disorders. The flowers of Telosma africana produce a pleasant fragrance and are used in the production of perfumes and essential oils. The plant's latex is also used in making rubber.
General Appearance
Telosma africana is a woody vine that can grow up to 20 meters tall when properly supported. It has slender stems which appear greenish-purple when young and mature to brownish-grey color. The leaves are glossy, leathery, and arranged in opposite pairs along the stem. The plant produces clusters of fragrant, white or cream-colored flowers with a tube-like corolla and a star-shaped spread. The flowers are followed by long, slender seed pods, which split open to release the seeds when mature.
Light Requirements
Telosma africana prefers bright, indirect light. It can also handle some direct sunlight in the early morning or late afternoon, but too much direct sunlight can scorch its leaves. Therefore, it is best to place the plant in a spot where it can receive bright, indirect light for most of the day.
Temperature Requirements
Telosma africana is native to tropical regions and therefore requires warm temperatures to thrive. It prefers temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C). It cannot tolerate temperatures below 60°F (15°C) and should be protected from cold drafts and chilly environments.
Soil Requirements
Telosma africana grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range between 6.0-7.0. A soil mix that is rich in peat moss or coconut coir, perlite, and vermiculite will provide the necessary drainage and aeration that the plant needs.
Cultivation Methods
Telosma africana is a hardy, fast-growing climber that is easy to cultivate. It prefers warm and humid conditions with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 30°C and does well in partial sunlight or filtered light. It is best grown in well-draining soils with good water retention capacity.
Propagation of Telosma africana can be achieved through seedlings or softwood cuttings. Seedlings take longer to establish, while cuttings take root quickly and exhibit faster growth rates.
Watering Needs
Watering must be done regularly for optimal growth of Telosma africana. The plant prefers moist soil conditions with good drainage. Watering should be done in the morning or late afternoon to avoid root rot caused by standing water
During summers, the plant needs to be watered more frequently due to the evaporation rate of water being higher. Conversely, during winter, watering should be reduced to prevent waterlogging of the soil.
Fertilization
Telosma africana is a relatively light feeder and responds well to organic fertilizers. Fertilization should be done once every three months during the growing season, which spans from spring to autumn.
A balanced NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) ratio fertilizer is best suited for Telosma africana. Overfertilizing the plant can lead to excessive foliage growth and decreased flowering.
Pruning
Pruning of Telosma africana is necessary to maintain the desired size and shape of the plant. Pruning should be done in spring before new growth begins.
The plant can be pruned to remove damaged or dead branches, to shape the plant, or to limit its growth. Training the plant on a trellis or support structure can help reduce its size and prevent it from becoming too dense.
Propagation of Telosma africana
Telosma africana (N. E. Br.) N. E. Br. is a beautiful flowering plant that can be propagated through various methods.
Propagation by seeds
Propagation by seeds is the easiest and most common method to propagate Telosma africana. The seeds of this plant can be collected from the mature fruits, which are elongated with ribbed surface. The seeds should be cleaned and soaked in warm water for 24 hours before sowing in a well-draining potting mix. The mix should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and the seeds should germinate within 2 to 3 weeks.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is another feasible method to propagate Telosma africana. The cuttings should be taken from the softwood of the plant during the growing season. The stem cuttings should be about 10 to 15 centimeters long and should have at least two nodes. The cut ends should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The mix should be kept moist and the cuttings should root within 3 to 4 weeks.
Propagation by layering
Propagation by layering is a less common but effective method to propagate Telosma africana. The stem of the plant is bent down to touch the soil and a small wound is made below the node. The wound is covered with moist soil and secured with a wooden peg. The new roots will form from the wound and the plant can be separated from the parent plant after 6 to 12 months.
Propagation of Telosma africana by any of the above methods is simple and can be done by anyone interested in growing this beautiful plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Telosma africana
Telosma africana is a beautiful and hardy plant that can withstand a variety of growing conditions. However, like all plants, it may be prone to diseases and pest attacks from time to time. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions on how to manage them.
Diseases
Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves that eventually turn black and fall off. To manage this, remove and destroy the affected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant. Use a fungicide if necessary.
Root Rot: Overwatering or poor drainage may lead to root rot, which causes the roots to rot, making it difficult for the plant to absorb water and nutrients. The plant may wilt and die if left untreated. To manage this, remove the affected parts and repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil.
Powdery Mildew: This disease presents as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems. It is caused by fungal spores. To manage this, remove and destroy the affected parts, improve air circulation, and reduce humidity around the plant. Use a fungicide if necessary.
Pests
Aphids: These pests are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant, causing wilting and yellowing of the leaves. To manage this, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge the aphids. If the infestation is severe, use a pesticide.
Spider Mites: These pests are tiny, spider-like creatures that suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing and bronzing of the leaves. To manage this, remove and destroy the affected parts, improve humidity around the plant, and use a miticide if necessary.
Mealybugs: These pests are small, white, cottony insects that suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage this, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove the bugs. Repeat this until the infestation is under control.
In conclusion, proper plant hygiene, regular inspection, and prompt treatment of diseases and pests are crucial in keeping Telosma africana healthy and thriving.
