Tricalysia acidophylla Robbr.
Tricalysia acidophylla Robbr., also commonly known as "Mihurangoma" is a plant species in the Rubiaceae family. It is endemic to the Kibira National Park in Burundi, Africa.
Appearance
The plant is a tree, growing up to 15m tall with a trunk diameter reaching up to 20cm. It has a narrowly conical or pyramidal shaped crown and the bark is greyish-brown and slightly fissured. The leaves are simple, opposite, and measure up to 18cm long and 12cm wide. The flowers are white and are borne in branched inflorescences that are up to 30cm long. The fruit is a berry, which turns red when ripe.
Uses
While there are no known direct uses of Tricalysia acidophylla Robbr. for human purposes, the tree is an important component of the Kibira National Park's ecosystem. The fruits are eaten by birds and other animals, thus dispersing the seeds and propagating the plant throughout the forest. The plant is also an important indicator species of high altitude forests in the Albertine Rift region.
Light Requirements
Tricalysia acidophylla Robbr. is a shade-loving plant that thrives under low to moderate light conditions. To ensure proper growth and development of this plant, it is best to place it in a location shaded from direct sunlight. An ideal location would be near a window or under a canopy of taller plants.
Temperature Requirements
Tricalysia acidophylla Robbr. is a tropical plant and requires warm temperatures to grow properly. The optimal temperature range for this plant is between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). This plant cannot tolerate cold temperatures, and exposure to lower temperatures for extended periods can cause damage or stunted growth.
Soil Requirements
Tricalysia acidophylla Robbr. requires well-drained, acidic soil to grow well. A pH range of 4.5 to 5.5 is ideal for this plant. The soil should also be rich in organic matter and nutrient-dense. The addition of peat moss or leaf litter will help maintain an acidic environment and improve water retention. Good drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging and root rot, which can be harmful to this plant.
Cultivation Methods for Tricalysia acidophylla Robbr.
The Tricalysia acidophylla Robbr. plant requires a well-draining soil. Ideally, the soil should be a mixture of loam and sand. It's essential to ensure that the soil pH level is between 4.5 and 5. If the pH is higher, adjust it by adding sulfur or other soil acidifiers.
This plant grows best in partial shade conditions. Therefore, it's best to plant it under trees or pergolas that provide partial shade. You can also create artificial shade using a shade cloth.
Tricalysia acidophylla Robbr. requires humidity to thrive, so you can use a humidifier or a pebble tray to increase moisture levels around the plant.
Watering Needs for Tricalysia acidophylla Robbr.
Tricalysia acidophylla Robbr. requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not soaking wet. It's best to water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. During hot weather conditions, the plant may require watering more frequently.
It's best to use filtered water or rainwater, as the plant is sensitive to chlorine and other chemicals found in tap water. It's also essential to avoid getting water on the leaves as wet leaves can cause fungal infections.
Fertilization for Tricalysia acidophylla Robbr.
The plant requires regular fertilization to provide essential nutrients. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize the plant during the growing season, which is typically in spring and summer.
It's essential to avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this can lead to root burn and other issues. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying fertilizers.
Pruning Tricalysia acidophylla Robbr.
Pruning helps to maintain the plant's shape, remove damaged or diseased parts, promote growth, and increase flowering. It's best to prune the plant during the dormant season, which is typically in winter.
To prune, use sharp and clean pruning shears. Make a clean cut just above the leaf node, which is the point where the leaf attaches to the stem. Avoid cutting into the stem, as this can lead to injury and other issues.
Propagation of Tricalysia Acidophylla Robbr.
Tricalysia Acidophylla Robbr. can be propagated through two methods; seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method used to propagate Tricalysia Acidophylla Robbr. It is a relatively easy and uncomplicated method, with a high success rate. Fresh seeds are collected from the fruits of the plant, and they are then cleaned and dried in the sun. Once the seeds are dry, they can be stored in a cool and dry place until the planting season.
The best time to plant Tricalysia Acidophylla Robbr. seeds is during the rainy season. The seeds are sown in seedbeds or prepared nursery beds. The soil is well-drained, fertile, and moist. The seeds are sown at a depth of 2-3 cm and covered with a thin layer of soil. Watering is done regularly to maintain soil moisture. Germination of seeds starts within 3-4 weeks. The seedlings are transplanted into individual pots or polybags after four to six weeks of germination and kept in shade for another six months.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Tricalysia Acidophylla Robbr. is also possible. This method involves the use of cuttings or layering.
Cuttings are taken from the healthy and mature branches. The cuttings are about 10-15 cm long and contain at least two nodes. The lower leaves are removed, and the cuttings are treated with rooting hormones. The cuttings are planted in well-prepared rooting media, such as sand, perlite, or vermiculite. The rooting media should be moist but not waterlogged. The cuttings are kept in a shaded area, and the rooting process takes about 3-4 weeks. Once the roots have developed, they are transferred into individual pots.
Layering is another method of vegetative propagation. Like in cuttings, the mature and healthy branches are selected, and they are bent and wounded in the middle. The wounded part is kept in contact with the soil, and it is covered with a small mound of soil. After 2-3 months, the roots develop from the wounded part, and new shoots start growing from the other side. Once the roots have developed, the new plants can be separated from the mother plant and transplanted into individual pots.
Disease and Pest Management for Tricalysia acidophylla Robbr.
Tricalysia acidophylla Robbr. is a plant species that is prone to certain diseases and pest attacks. To prevent and manage these issues, the following practices are recommended:
Diseases
1. Leaf Spot Diseases: The plant can be affected by different leaf spot diseases that cause the leaves to have small, black or dark-colored spots. To manage this disease, affected leaves should be removed and destroyed immediately to avoid spreading. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
2. Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that causes small, circular, sunken patches on the leaves and stem of the plant. To manage this disease, practice good hygiene by removing and destroying affected plant parts, and treating with fungicides.
Pests
1. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are common pests that suck sap from the plant's leaves and stems. Infested plants will have a white, cottony substance on them. To manage this pest, remove heavily infested areas and treat the plant with insecticidal soap.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that cause yellow spots on the leaves and can cause significant damage to the plant. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to remove them and use insecticidal soap to get rid of any remaining pests.
3. Scale insects: Scale insects are another common pest that attack Tricalysia acidophylla Robbr. They appear as small, rounded bumps on the plant's stems and leaves. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap or a horticultural oil spray to control the scale insects.
Keeping an eye on the plant and practicing good hygiene, such as removing diseased or infested areas, is key to maintaining the health of Tricalysia acidophylla Robbr. Conscientious care will help to keep diseases and pests at bay and ensure the plant thrives.
