Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. buxifolia: Origin and Common Names
Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. buxifolia, commonly known as "Boterbloem" in Dutch, is a plant species belonging to the Rubiaceae family. It is native to tropical Africa, specifically found in the countries of Congo, Angola, Cameroon, and Gabon.
Appearance
Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. buxifolia is a small, evergreen shrub that can grow up to 1m in height and 1m in width. It has glossy, dark green leaves that are leathery and oval in shape, measuring 2-6cm in length and 1-3cm in width. The plant produces small yellow flowers that are 5-7mm in diameter and are arranged in clusters at the end of the branches. The flowering period is from June to October.
Uses
Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. buxifolia is used in traditional medicine as a remedy for various ailments. The roots and leaves are used to treat fever, malaria, diarrhea, and stomach pains. The plant also contains alkaloids that have antimalarial properties. In addition, the plant is also used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive glossy leaves and yellow flowers.
Light Requirements
Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. buxifolia typically grows in areas with moderate to high levels of light. It can tolerate periods of partial shade, but extended periods of shade may negatively impact growth. Therefore, it is best to grow this plant in an area with access to direct sunlight for at least a few hours a day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm and humid conditions and cannot tolerate frost or prolonged periods of cold temperatures. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 20-30°C, making it perfectly suited for tropical and subtropical climates.
Soil Requirements
Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. buxifolia requires well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. This allows the roots to absorb nutrients and water easily, without the risks of waterlogging. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH between 5.5 to 7.0 is ideal. It can grow on a range of soil types, but performs best in sandy loam or loamy soils.
Cultivation Methods
Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. buxifolia is usually grown from seeds, which are sown in a nursery bed or container. The seeds need to be placed in well-drained soil and kept moist until germination, which usually occurs within two to four weeks. Once the seedlings are big enough and have developed leaves, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Watering Needs
Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. buxifolia is a fairly drought-tolerant plant, so it doesn't need to be watered frequently. However, during the dry season, it's important to keep the soil around the plant consistently moist. When watering, make sure to avoid getting water on the foliage, as this can encourage fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. buxifolia responds well to regular fertilization. A balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 applied every three to four months during the growing season can help keep the plant healthy and promote growth.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. buxifolia, but it can be beneficial for shaping and controlling the size of the plant. Prune the plant after it has finished flowering to ensure new growth is not harmed and to avoid cutting off flower buds. Remove any dead or diseased branches as soon as they are identified.
Propagation of Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. buxifolia
Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. buxifolia, commonly known as the Forest coffee, is propagated through seeds and cuttings. The following are the propagation methods that you can use to propagate this plant:
Propagation by Seeds
The Forest coffee plant produces small berries that contain seeds. To propagate the plant by seed, you will need to collect the ripe berries from the plant. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, and water the soil gently. Keep the soil moist and warm. The seeds will germinate in a few weeks. Once the seedlings have developed two sets of true leaves, you can transplant them into individual pots filled with a standard potting mix.
Propagation by Cuttings
You can propagate Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. buxifolia by stem cuttings. Take stem cuttings of about 10 to 15 cm in length from a healthy plant. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem, leaving only a few leaves on the top. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone, and plant it in a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. Water the soil lightly, and keep it moist but not waterlogged. Cover the cutting with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. Place the cutting in a shaded area, away from direct sunlight. Once the cutting has rooted, which should take a few weeks, remove the plastic bag and transplanted it into a pot filled with a standard potting mix.
In conclusion, propagation of Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. buxifolia can be done through seeds and cuttings. Each of these methods has its advantages and disadvantages. You can choose the method that suits you best, depending on the resources that you have available.
Disease and Pest Management for Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. buxifolia
Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. buxifolia is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it is still susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and development. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Bacterial leaf spot: This disease is caused by the Xanthomonas campestris bacterium and is characterized by small, water-soaked spots on the leaves that eventually turn yellow and drop off. To manage this disease, it is important to remove the affected leaves and destroy them. Avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation to prevent the spread of the disease.
Root rot: This fungal disease is caused by various species of Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia, and Fusarium and is characterized by wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of the plant. To manage this disease, it is important to ensure good soil drainage and avoid overwatering. Remove infected plants and do not replant in the same area.
Powdery mildew: This fungal disease is caused by various species of Erysiphales and is characterized by a white, powdery growth on the leaves and stems. To manage this disease, it is important to improve air circulation, avoid overcrowding plants, and water early in the day to allow the leaves to dry before nightfall. Fungicidal sprays may also be effective.
Pests
Spider mites: These pests are tiny, sap-sucking insects that can damage the leaves and cause webbing on the plant. To manage spider mites, it is important to keep the plant well-watered and increase humidity around the plant. Insecticidal soap or neem oil may also be effective.
Aphids: These pests are small, soft-bodied insects that are usually found on new growth and flowers. They can cause distorted growth and spread viral diseases. To manage aphids, it is important to prune affected plant parts and use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encouraging beneficial insects like ladybugs can also help control aphids.
Scale insects: These pests are small, flat, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant and suck sap. They can cause yellowing and stunted growth of the plant. To manage scale insects, it is important to remove them with a soft brush or cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Insecticidal soap or neem oil may also be effective.
By taking proactive measures and addressing any potential disease and pest problems, you can ensure the health and growth of your Tricalysia buxifolia Hiern var. buxifolia plant.
