Overview
Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. australis Robbr. is a plant species that belongs to the family Rubiaceae. This plant is commonly known as the Australian coffee bush and is native to Africa, specifically in the countries of Angola, Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, and Nigeria. This plant has gained popularity in recent years due to its numerous uses and benefits.
Description
The Australian coffee bush is a small, evergreen plant that grows up to 2-3 meters tall. It has dense foliage with glossy, leathery leaves that are dark green in color and have a prominent midrib. The leaves are oblong to elliptic in shape and measure around 2-4 cm in length. The plant produces small, white, and fragrant flowers that bloom in clusters at the end of the branches. The flowers then develop into red to black berries that are about 1 cm in diameter.
Uses
Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. australis Robbr. has several uses in traditional medicine. The leaves of this plant are commonly used as an herbal remedy for various ailments such as fever, malaria, and headaches. The leaves are also used as a natural health supplement due to their antioxidant properties. The fruit of the Australian coffee bush is edible, and it is used to flavor food and drinks, including tea and coffee. It is believed that the plant can also help in treating stomach problems and gastrointestinal disorders.
Aside from its medicinal uses, this plant is also cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its attractive and glossy foliage. It is also used as a hedge, a bonsai, or a patio plant, due to its small size and easy-to-grow characteristics. Moreover, the plant can grow in various types of soil as long as it is well-drained and can tolerate partial to full sun.
Conclusion
Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. australis Robbr is a versatile plant that is commonly grown for its medicinal properties and ornamental value. With its glossy and leathery leaves, fragrant flowers, and small, eye-catching fruits, it makes for a perfect addition to any garden or landscape. Furthermore, it has numerous potential applications and benefits, making it a valuable plant in both traditional medicine and the commercial trade.
Growth Conditions for Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. australis Robbr.
Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. australis Robbr. is a plant that is native to West Africa and commonly found in Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Liberia. It is also referred to as the “Guinea coffee” and belongs to the Rubiaceae family.
Light
The plant requires moderate to bright light conditions to grow well. In its natural habitat, it grows under the shade of tall trees, which offers filtered light. Therefore, it is important to provide enough light without exposing it to direct sunlight, which may damage the leaves.
Temperature
The plant thrives in warm temperatures, typical of the tropics, with an average temperature range of 22-26°C. It is sensitive to extreme cold or heat, and thus it is advisable to keep it in a controlled environment with a temperature range of 18-28°C.
Soil Requirements
Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. australis Robbr. is not a picky plant when it comes to soil. However, it prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic with a pH range of 4.5-6.5. The soil should also be rich in organic matter for successful growth. It is recommended to use a potting mixture with a combination of soil, peat moss or coco coir, and perlite for adequate drainage.
The plant requires consistent watering, but not too much to avoid waterlogging that may lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out before watering. Fertilizing is done monthly using a balanced liquid fertilizer or slow-release granular fertilizer.
With the above growth conditions well taken care of, Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. australis Robbr. can grow up to 3 meters in height and up to 2 meters in width. It is a beautiful plant that produces attractive white to pale-yellow flowers that usually bloom in late spring and early summer.
Cultivation methods
Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. australis Robbr. is a relatively easy plant to grow. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and slightly acidic with a pH ranging between 5.5 and 6.5. Make sure the planting location gets partial to full shade, and avoid putting the plant in direct sunlight for extended periods.
Watering needs
The plant requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should never be too wet as it can lead to root rot, nor should it be too dry as this can result in leaf drop. Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Reduce watering during the colder months to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant every four to six weeks during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. You may use organic fertilizer as it promotes the growth of beneficial microorganisms in the soil. However, avoid over-fertilization as it's detrimental to the plant's health, resulting in overly fast growth, and weak branches.
Pruning
Pruning Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. australis Robbr. is essential to maintain its compact shape and promote bushier growth. The best time to prune is during the late winter or early spring, just before the growing season. Cut off any yellowed or damaged leaves, and trim back any leggy or excessively long stems. Pinching off the tips of the stems will result in the growth of more lateral branches, making the plant fuller.
Propagation of Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. australis Robbr.
Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. australis Robbr. can be propagated by both seed and vegetative means. The following are the propagation methods:
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. australis Robbr. Seeds can be harvested from mature fruits, cleaned, and sown in seedling trays. Seeds should be sown about 1 cm deep in a well-draining and fertile soil mix. The trays should be kept moist and placed in a warm area that receives partial shade. The seeds germinate in about 2-4 weeks.
Vegetative propagation
Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. australis Robbr. can also be propagated vegetatively. This method involves taking stem cuttings from an established plant. Cuttings of about 5-10 cm long can be taken from the tip or middle section of the stem. The lower leaves can be removed, and the cutting can be dipped in rooting hormone powder. The cuttings should be planted in a potting mix of sand, peat, and perlite and placed in a warm, humid area receiving partial shade. The cuttings should root within 4-6 weeks and can then be transplanted into individual pots.
Disease and Pest Management for Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. australis Robbr.
Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. australis Robbr., commonly known as African boxwood, is a plant that belongs to Rubiaceae family. This plant is susceptible to certain pests and diseases which can affect its overall growth and health. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the common pests and diseases that might affect the plant and take necessary measures to manage them.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Tricalysia buxifolia is anthracnose. This disease is caused by a fungus which leads to the wilting, yellowing, and dropping of leaves. In severe cases, it can also lead to the death of the plant. To manage this disease, it is important to prune the infected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the disease.
Another disease that can affect Tricalysia buxifolia is powdery mildew. This disease is caused by a fungus which forms a white powdery coating on the leaves of the plant. It can also cause distortion and curling of the leaves. To manage this disease, it is important to improve air circulation around the plant and reduce humidity. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
Spider mites are one of the most common pests that can affect Tricalysia buxifolia. These tiny pests feed on the leaves of the plant and cause discoloration and distortion of the leaves. To manage spider mites, it is important to rinse the leaves of the plant with water and keep the plant well-hydrated. In severe cases, insecticides can also be used to control the infestation.
Mealybugs are another common pest that can affect Tricalysia buxifolia. These pests feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage mealybug infestations, it is important to prune the infected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly. Insecticides can also be used to control the infestation.
Regular inspection and timely intervention are key to the management of diseases and pests in Tricalysia buxifolia. By taking these measures, the plant can be kept healthy and vibrant, leading to a beautiful landscape.
