Origin of Tricalysia allenii (Stapf) Brenan var. australis (Schweick.) Brenan
Tricalysia allenii (Stapf) Brenan var. australis (Schweick.) Brenan, commonly known as the Southern Three-veined Tricalysia, is a plant species that belongs to the genus Tricalysia and family Rubiaceae. This plant is native to Africa and can be found in countries such as Cameroon, Gabon, and Congo.
Common names
Aside from its scientific name, Tricalysia allenii (Stapf) Brenan var. australis (Schweick.) Brenan is also known by other common names in different countries or regions where it can be found. In Cameroon, it is called "Koboy" or "Koboi," while in Gabon, it is known as "Njontu."
Uses of Tricalysia allenii (Stapf) Brenan var. australis (Schweick.) Brenan
While the Tricalysia allenii (Stapf) Brenan var. australis (Schweick.) Brenan plant does not have any significant economic or commercial value, it has a history of being used in traditional medicine by local communities in Africa. The roots and bark of the plant are used to treat ailments such as malaria, rheumatism, and fever. The plant has been studied for its potential to be developed into a drug for the treatment of malaria.
General appearance of Tricalysia allenii (Stapf) Brenan var. australis (Schweick.) Brenan
Tricalysia allenii (Stapf) Brenan var. australis (Schweick.) Brenan is a shrubby plant with a woody stem that can grow up to 2 meters in height. The plant has leaves that are either simple or lobed, with a length of 10-20 cm. The flowers are small, white, and grouped in clusters at the end of the stems. The fruit of the Tricalysia allenii (Stapf) Brenan var. australis (Schweick.) Brenan plant is a red, ovoid, or ellipsoid-shaped berry that is about 1 cm in diameter.
Light Requirements
Tricalysia allenii var. australis requires bright but indirect sunlight for optimal growth. As a tropical plant, it cannot tolerate direct sunlight which may cause its leaves to scorch. Therefore, it should be placed near a window that allows natural light in, but should not be left under the sun for prolonged periods.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in warm and humid conditions. It requires a temperature range between 18°C to 26°C (65°F to 80°F) to grow and develop properly. It cannot tolerate extreme temperatures, high or low, which can damage the plant and impede its growth. A moderate and constant temperature is necessary.
Soil Requirements
Tricalysia allenii var. australis prefers well-draining and fertile acidic soils. It grows best in soil with a pH range of 4.5 to 6.5. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and it should not dry up completely since it is sensitive to drought. A good potting mix for this plant should include peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite
Cultivation
The Tricalysia allenii (Stapf) Brenan var. australis (Schweick.) Brenan is a tropical plant that thrives in warm conditions. It can be cultivated in pots or in the ground in a garden.
When planting in the ground, ensure the soil is rich in nutrients and well-draining. The plant favors partial shade to full sun, making it an excellent indoor or outdoor plant.
If planting in a pot, ensure the pot is deep enough to accommodate the root system, and the soil is well-draining. The pot should be placed in an area with good airflow and ample light.
Watering Needs
The Tricalysia allenii (Stapf) Brenan var. australis (Schweick.) Brenan requires regular watering, especially during the growing season, which typically spans spring and summer. The plant prefers moist but well-drained soil.
It is essential to avoid overwatering the plant as this may cause waterlogging and root rot. The frequency of watering should be reduced during the winter months when the plant experiences dormancy.
Fertilization
Fertilization is necessary for the Tricalysia allenii (Stapf) Brenan var. australis (Schweick.) Brenan to perform optimally. A balanced liquid fertilizer should be applied fortnightly during the growing season.
The fertility of the soil should be monitored regularly, and the fertilizer should be adjusted accordingly. Over-fertilization should be avoided, as this may lead to salt buildup, causing damage to the plant.
Pruning
Pruning the Tricalysia allenii (Stapf) Brenan var. australis (Schweick.) Brenan is not necessary; however, it can be beneficial to remove dead leaves and stems to improve its appearance.
In cases where the plant has grown too tall or wide, trimming the branches can help maintain the plant's shape and encourage new growth. Regular maintenance of the plant will keep it healthy and vibrant.
Propagation of Tricalysia allenii var. australis
Propagation of Tricalysia allenii var. australis can be done through various methods such as seeds, stem cuttings, and root division. However, the success rate of propagation via seeds is low and thus stem cuttings and root division are preferred methods.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can be collected from the mother plant during its active growth stage, which is usually in spring or early summer. Cuttings should be around 10-15 cm long and have at least 2-3 pairs of leaves. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a mixture of sand, peat, and compost in a well-draining pot. The pot should be kept in a shaded area and the soil should be kept moist. Within 2-3 weeks, the cuttings will develop roots and can be transplanted to individual pots.
Root Division
Root division is another method for propagation of Tricalysia allenii var. australis. The mother plant should be dug out carefully and the root ball should be divided into smaller sections. Each section should have healthy roots and shoots and can be planted in separate pots filled with well-draining soil mix. The pots should be placed in a shaded area and the soil should be kept moist.
Both stem cuttings and root division should be performed in the early morning or late evening to avoid direct sunlight which can damage the cuttings.
Disease Management
Like every other plant, Tricalysia allenii (Stapf) Brenan var. australis (Schweick.) Brenan is prone to different kinds of diseases that can significantly affect the plant's growth and development. The following are common diseases that can affect Tricalysia allenii:
- Leaf Spot Disease: This disease causes dark spots to form on the plant's leaves, interrupting its ability to photosynthesize. Ensure your plant isn't overwatered, avoiding splash-up of soil to the leaves. Chemical treatment with a fungicide could be used to manage this disease.
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that affects leaves, flowers, and fruits of the plant. This disease can lead to defoliation and death of the plant. Gardeners must ensure the plant's soil doesn't stay too wet and remove infected plant parts to manage the disease.
- Root Rot: Root rot is caused by water mold fungi that thrive in moist soils, preventing the plant roots from absorbing nutrients, thus initiating plant death. Watering schedules should be adjusted to allow for periods when the soil can dry. This disease can be managed by using fungus resistant cultivars.
Pest Management
Tricalysia allenii is also susceptible to pest infestations. Common pests that can attack the plant include:
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that pierce plant cells and suck out sap causing discoloration and distortion of leaves. Prune off leaves with orange or yellow spots and apply neem oil spray to manage infestation. Water misting would help to increase the humidity around the plants to prevent the pests.
- Aphids: Aphids are another common pest of Tricalysia allenii, causing browning and distortion of the plant's leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the aphids, or release natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings to manage the infestation.
- Scales: Scales are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plant, eventually leading to the plant's death. Use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove the scales gently, and persistent infestation would require using a systemic insecticide to manage them.
