Overview of Tetracera obtusata Planch. ex Oliv. var. eriantha Oliv.
Tetracera obtusata Planch. ex Oliv. var. eriantha Oliv., commonly known as "kabasi" or "tamlang", is a plant species belonging to the family Dilleniaceae. It is a woody climber that is native to tropical Africa and can be found in countries such as Nigeria and Cameroon.
Appearance of Tetracera obtusata Planch. ex Oliv. var. eriantha Oliv.
The plant has an impressive climbing ability and can reach a maximum height of 20m. Its stem is slender and can be 2-6cm in diameter. The plant's bark is grey and scaly, while its leaves are oblong-ovate, 6-12cm long, and 2-8cm wide. Its flowers have five petals, are light pink in color, and bloom in clusters. The fruit of Tetracera obtusata Planch. ex Oliv. var. eriantha Oliv. is a capsule that is up to 4cm long and contains many small seeds.
Uses of Tetracera obtusata Planch. ex Oliv. var. eriantha Oliv.
The plant is widely used in traditional African medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, cough, and malaria. Its leaves and roots have been found to contain several bioactive compounds that exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. The plant's bark is also used to make ropes, and its wood is used for making furniture and utensils.
In addition to its medicinal and commercial uses, Tetracera obtusata Planch. ex Oliv. var. eriantha Oliv. is also a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive pink flowers and ability to climb. In some regions, the plant is used to cover walls, fences, and other structures for ornamental purposes.
Light Requirements
Tetracera obtusata Planch. ex Oliv. var. eriantha Oliv. prefers growing in partially shaded areas. It's important to avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight, as this may damage its leaves and affect its growth.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions and prefers temperatures ranging from 20-30°C. Temperatures below 15°C or above 35°C can affect its growth. It is important to maintain a consistent temperature level to ensure healthy growth.
Soil Requirements
The Tetracera obtusata Planch. ex Oliv. var. eriantha Oliv. prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acid, with a pH of 6.0-6.5. The plants require regular watering but should not be left in wet soil. The soil should be kept moist, but not soggy. Fertilizing the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season can promote healthy growth.
Cultivation of Tetracera obtusata Planch. ex Oliv. var. eriantha Oliv.
Tetracera obtusata Planch. ex Oliv. var. eriantha Oliv. is a beautiful plant. It is a climbing plant, which means it grows best on a support structure. You can grow it in a hanging basket, or you can train it to climb up a trellis or wall. Whatever support structure you choose, you must ensure it is sturdy enough to hold the weight of the plant.
Watering Needs
Tetracera obtusata Planch. ex Oliv. var. eriantha Oliv. prefers well-draining soil, but it also needs to be kept moist. You must water the plant regularly, especially during the summer months. However, be careful not to overwater the plant, as this can cause root rot. You can check if the plant needs water by inserting a finger into the soil. If it feels dry, then it is time to water the plant.
Fertilization
Tetracera obtusata Planch. ex Oliv. var. eriantha Oliv. requires adequate nutrients to grow correctly. You can fertilize the plant once or twice a month during the growing season with a water-soluble fertilizer. Choose a fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Ensure you follow the instructions on the fertilizer package to avoid over-fertilization.
Pruning
Tetracera obtusata Planch. ex Oliv. var. eriantha Oliv. requires pruning to prevent it from getting too large and unruly. You can prune the plant during the winter months when the plant is dormant. Cut back the older stems to encourage the growth of new stems. You can also prune any dead, diseased, or damaged stems. Ensure you use sharp and clean pruning tools to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Tetracera obtusata Planch. ex Oliv. var. eriantha Oliv.
Tetracera obtusata Planch. ex Oliv. var. eriantha Oliv. can be propagated by both sexual and asexual methods. However, sexual reproduction is more challenging and time-consuming, so asexual propagation methods are more common and preferred.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is the most popular method to propagate Tetracera obtusata Planch. ex Oliv. var. eriantha Oliv. The plant can be propagated by stem cuttings or layering. Stem cuttings should be taken from new growth, and at least two nodes should be present on each cutting. Layering should be done by burying a low-lying branch in the soil, making a small wound on the branch where it touches the soil, and covering it with soil. Both methods require the cuttings or the layering branch to be kept moist and out of direct sunlight until roots develop.
Asexual Propagation
The plant can also be propagated asexually via tissue culture. The process involves taking a piece of tissue or explant from the plant and growing it in a sterile, nutrient-rich environment. Tissue culture enables mass propagation of plants in a very short time and can produce disease-free plants.
Regardless of the propagation method chosen, the new plant should be kept in a warm, humid environment and watered regularly until it is established.
Disease and Pest Management for Tetracera obtusata Planch. ex Oliv. var. eriantha Oliv.
The Tetracera obtusata Planch. ex Oliv. var. eriantha Oliv. is a plant species that is known to be relatively resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it can still be affected by certain pathogens and insects that can damage its leaves, stems, and roots. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf spots are caused by the fungus Cercospora. The spots start as small, circular lesions but rapidly enlarge, causing the leaves to yellow and drop. To prevent this disease, avoid overcrowding plants and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can be applied if necessary.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum, and it affects leaves, branches, and flowers. Infected leaves develop dark spots and can cause defoliation. Prune out and destroy infected material. Fungicides can be applied if necessary.
Root Rot: Root rot is caused by soil-borne fungi and can be identified by the wilting and yellowing of leaves. The roots of infected plants will appear brown and rotting. To prevent root rot, ensure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering. Fungicides can be applied if necessary.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems of plants. Infested plants will appear yellowed and stunted. To control aphids, spray the plant with a jet of water or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Mites: Mites are tiny creatures that can cause discoloration and distortion of the leaves. To control mites, increase the humidity around the plant, prune off infected leaves, or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are white, waxy insects that are found in clusters at the base of leaves or on stems. They cause wilting and stunted growth. To control mealybugs, wipe the leaves, stem, and branches with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol, or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By applying these measures to manage common diseases and pests that might affect Tetracera obtusata Planch. ex Oliv. var. eriantha Oliv., one can maintain the health and beauty of this plant.
