Origin:
Tricalysia anomalura N.Hallé, commonly known as “Koundoum” or “Mikana” in Gabon, is an evergreen shrub that is native to the rainforests of Central and West Africa.
Common Names:
Aside from “Koundoum” and “Mikana”, Tricalysia anomalura also goes by several other common names including “Bonde”, “Lopori”, “Nzani”, and “Tuitui”.
Appearance:
Tricalysia anomalura can grow up to 4 meters tall and has a dense foliage of shiny, dark green leaves. The plant produces small, cream-colored flowers that eventually turn into reddish-purple fruit that is edible but not commonly consumed.
Uses:
Tricalysia anomalura has been used by indigenous communities for a variety of medicinal purposes including treating fever, malaria, and stomach ailments. The bark and leaves of the plant contain several bioactive compounds that have been found to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antimalarial properties. In addition to its medicinal uses, Tricalysia anomalura is also used for ornamental purposes in Gabon and other Central African countries.
Light Conditions
Tricalysia anomalura N.Hallé is a shade-loving plant that grows naturally in the understory of tropical rainforests. As such, it needs dappled sunlight or shade to thrive. Direct exposure to sunlight can burn its delicate leaves, stunt its growth, and even kill the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to tropical regions, where the temperature ranges between 20°C to 30°C. It cannot tolerate frost, freezing temperatures, or extreme heat. Ideally, the temperature range for growing Tricalysia anomalura N.Hallé should be between 23°C to 27°C. Any temperature outside this range can affect the plant's development negatively.
Soil Requirements
Tricalysia anomalura N.Hallé prefers well-draining, rich, and organic soil. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged as the plant cannot tolerate standing water. The plant's roots should not dry out, so proper irrigation regimes should be maintained. A pH range of 5.5 to 6.5 is recommended for optimal growth.
Fertilizer Requirements
Use of a balanced slow-release fertilizer is recommended during the early stages of growth. Fertilizer should be used sparingly and carefully up to maturity as excessive use can lead to weak growth, or worse, plant death. A balanced 14-14-14 NPK fertilizer should be used with a dose of approximately 10g per plant every six weeks. If the leaves start turning yellow, the plant may need additional nutrients, so fertilizer may be applied sooner.
Cultivation methods
Tricalysia anomalura N.Hallé is a shade-loving plant native to the forests of Cameroon. To successfully cultivate this plant, it is best to mimic its natural habitat as closely as possible. It thrives under a dense canopy of trees. Therefore, it would be best to plant it under a large tree where it can receive filtered sunlight.
The plant can grow up to 9 feet tall and 3 feet wide. Therefore, it is recommended that you give it sufficient space to grow to its full potential. You should plant it in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It is also recommended to add some compost and slow-release fertilizer to the soil before planting.
Watering needs
Tricalysia anomalura N.Hallé prefers moist soil. However, it does not tolerate waterlogging. You should water the plant moderately, keeping the soil consistently moist but not wet. During hotter months, it may require more frequent watering to prevent the soil from drying out.
The plant does not respond well to dry soil. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the plant is not underwatered. However, it is equally important to prevent overwatering, as it can lead to root rot and other fungal infections.
Fertilization
To keep Tricalysia anomalura N.Hallé healthy and encourage optimal growth, it is recommended to fertilize it regularly. You should apply a slow-release fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, in early spring, late spring, and again in early autumn.
Alternatively, you can use a liquid fertilizer during the plant's active growing season. However, it is essential to dilute the fertilizer as per the instructions, as overapplication can cause leaf burn and even death of the plant.
Pruning
Although Tricalysia anomalura N.Hallé does not require extensive pruning, trimming the plant occasionally can help maintain its shape and prevent overgrowth. You can remove any dead, diseased, or damaged leaves or branches as soon as you notice them.
You can also trim the plant's tips to prevent it from becoming too leggy. However, it is important to avoid over-pruning, as this can cause stress to the plant and affect its overall health.
With proper care and attention, Tricalysia anomalura N.Hallé can thrive in your garden and add a touch of exotic beauty to your landscape.
Propagation of Tricalysia anomalura N.Hallé
Tricalysia anomalura N.Hallé can be propagated through both seeds and cuttings.
Propagation through seeds
The best time to collect seeds is during the fruiting season, which is usually between September and November. The fruits should be left to ripen on the plant before harvesting.
Once the fruits have been harvested, the seeds should be extracted and washed to remove any pulp or debris. The seeds can then be sown in a well-draining soil mix, with a thin layer of sand placed on top to prevent the growth of fungi and other pathogens.
The seeds should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, and placed in a warm and humid environment to aid germination. Germination can occur within 2-4 weeks.
Propagation through cuttings
Cuttings can be taken from mature plants during the growing season. The cuttings should be taken from the top of the plant, and should be around 10-15 cm in length.
The lower leaves should be removed and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cutting should then be planted in well-draining soil mix and placed in a warm and humid environment.
The cutting should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, and should begin to root within 2-4 weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Tricalysia anomalura N.Hallé
Tricalysia anomalura N.Hallé is a beautiful plant species that is native to Cameroon. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can cause serious damage or even kill the plant. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Tricalysia anomalura and ways to manage them:
Leaf Spot Diseases
Leaf spot diseases are a common problem for many plant species, including Tricalysia anomalura. These diseases are caused by various fungi and bacteria that infect the leaves, causing small to large spots of different colors, including brown, yellow, and black. To manage leaf spot diseases, it is recommended to practice good plant hygiene, such as removing infected leaves and debris, avoiding overhead watering, and applying fungicides if necessary.
Root Rot Diseases
Root rot diseases are caused by various fungi and bacteria that infect the roots, causing them to rot and eventually kill the plant. Symptoms of root rot include wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth. To manage root rot diseases, it is important to avoid overwatering and poorly drained soils, use well-draining soil, and apply fungicides if necessary.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are common pests that can cause serious damage to Tricalysia anomalura by feeding on the leaves and flowers. To manage caterpillar infestations, it is recommended to handpick and remove them, apply insecticides if necessary, and encourage natural predators such as birds and parasitic wasps.
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of Tricalysia anomalura, causing them to wilt and deform. To manage aphid infestations, it is recommended to spray the plant with water to dislodge them, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, and encourage natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that suck the sap from the leaves of Tricalysia anomalura, causing them to turn yellow and dry out. To manage spider mite infestations, it is recommended to spray the plant with water to dislodge them, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, and increase humidity levels around the plant.
