Tricalysia cacondensis Hiern
Tricalysia cacondensis Hiern is a plant species in the Rubiaceae family. It is also known as Kwakwa in Cameroon where it is endemic.
Origin and distribution
The plant is found in the tropical rainforests of Cameroon, particularly in the Bakossi Mountains of the southwestern region. It is commonly found growing in the understory of the forest.
Common names
The plant has several common names including Cameroon tea, Kwakwa, and scented tea.
Uses
The leaves of Tricalysia cacondensis Hiern are used for traditional medicine in Cameroon. They are used to treat gastrointestinal disorders, malaria, and fever. The leaves are also used to make an infusion which is drunk as a tea. The tea has a sweet fragrance and is said to be refreshing and thirst-quenching.
General appearance
Tricalysia cacondensis Hiern is a small tree or shrub that grows up to 6 meters tall. The leaves are oblong or elliptic with a glossy dark green color with a smooth surface. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, and are borne in clusters. The fruit is a small red berry approximately 1 cm in diameter with 2-4 seeds.
Light Requirements
Tricalysia cacondensis Hiern requires partial shade to full sunlight exposure for optimal growth. It can tolerate low-light conditions, but prolonged shade can negatively impact its growth and flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can thrive in a wide range of temperatures, ideally between 15°C to 25°C during the day and 12°C to 20°C at night. Temperatures higher than 30°C can lead to leaf scorching and wilting, while temperatures below 10°C can negatively affect its growth rate.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows best in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. It prefers soils that are loamy or sandy, but can also grow in clay soils. The soil should remain moist but not waterlogged, as excessive moisture can cause root rot and fungal diseases.
Cultivation methods
Tricalysia cacondensis Hiern is a shrub that can grow up to 6 meters tall and requires well-drained soil with some organic matter. It can be propagated through cuttings, seeds, or layering.
For cuttings, select healthy stems about 10-15 cm long and remove leaves from the bottom half. Dip the cut ends in rooting hormone and plant in a potting mix with good drainage. Keep the soil moist and in a warm, protected area until roots form.
Seeds can be sowed in the soil or in pots with moist potting mix. Place the seeds about 2 cm deep and keep the soil moist. Germination can take a few weeks to several months, so be patient.
Layering involves bending lower branches to the ground and pinning them with soil. Roots will develop at the bend, and the new plant can be separated and transplanted after a few months.
Watering needs
Sufficient water is essential for Tricalysia cacondensis Hiern’s growth. Water newly planted or transplanted specimens deeply and regularly, to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Established shrubs require regular watering during dry periods. It’s best to water in the early morning or evening to reduce moisture loss through evaporation.
Fertilization
Tricalysia cacondensis Hiern responds well to regular feeding with balanced fertilizer, especially during the growing season. Use a slow-release fertilizer or water-based fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Avoid applying too much fertilizer at once, as it can cause root burn.
Pruning
Pruning should be carried out after flowering to promote bushier growth and to remove any dead or damaged branches. Trimming back overly long stems can also help to maintain a more compact shape and encourage more prolific flowering. Use sharp and clean tools to prevent damage and infection.
Propagation of Tricalysia cacondensis Hiern
Tricalysia cacondensis Hiern is a plant species that belongs to the Rubiaceae family and is native to West Africa. It is commonly known as Alemannia. The plant can be propagated through various methods, which are explained below.
Seed propagation
Seeds are collected from the mature fruits of the Tricalysia cacondensis Hiern. The fruits of the plant are sub-globular and contain a single seed. The seeds are extracted and cleaned before sowing. The seeds require stratification by soaking them in water for about 24 hours. Then, the seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and covered slightly with soil. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. The seeds will usually germinate within 4 to 6 weeks.
Cutting propagation
Tricalysia cacondensis Hiern can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from 4 to 6 inches long stems of the plant. The leaves should be removed from the bottom half of the cutting, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting in well-draining soil. The cuttings should be kept in a humid environment and should be watered regularly. The roots will usually form within 4 to 6 weeks.
Air-layering propagation
Air-layering is another propagation method for Tricalysia cacondensis Hiern. In this method, a portion of the stem is wrapped with moist sphagnum moss, and then plastic wrap is wrapped around the moss to keep it moist. After a few weeks, roots will begin to form. Once the roots are well-formed, the rooted portion can be cut from the parent plant and planted in well-draining soil.
Division propagation
Tricalysia cacondensis Hiern can also be propagated by division. This method requires a mature plant with multiple stems. The plant is carefully dug up, and the roots are carefully separated into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one stem and a good root system. The sections are then planted in well-draining soil and watered regularly.
Disease and Pest Management for Tricalysia cacondensis Hiern Plant
Tricalysia cacondensis Hiern is a medicinal plant commonly used in traditional African medicine. Just like any other plant, it is susceptible to diseases and pest attacks that can greatly reduce its productivity. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf spot diseases: These are fungal diseases that cause leaf spots, which can result in premature defoliation and reduce the plant's yield. To manage leaf spot diseases in Tricalysia cacondensis Hiern, you can apply fungicides, remove and destroy infected leaves, and practice good sanitation by avoiding overcrowding and ensuring good air circulation.
Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, leading to wilting, stunted growth, and even death. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering, provide good drainage, and use disease-free planting materials. You can also apply fungicides and ensure that the plants are grown in well-aerated and well-drained soils.
Viral diseases: Viral diseases can also affect Tricalysia cacondensis Hiern, causing stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and reduction in yield. To manage viral diseases, use disease-free planting materials, avoid using contaminated equipment, and control the vectors that spread the viruses. There are no available chemical controls for viral diseases, so prevention is the best management strategy.
Pests
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the leaves of Tricalysia cacondensis Hiern. They cause yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and in severe cases, defoliation and death of the plant. To manage spider mites, you can use insecticidal soaps, introduce natural enemies such as predatory mites, and practice good sanitation by removing and destroying infested leaves.
Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small, winged insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves, causing yellowing, stunted growth, and death of the plant. To manage whiteflies, you can use insecticidal soaps, introduce natural enemies such as parasitic wasps, and apply sticky traps to trap the adults.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of butterflies and moths that feed on the leaves of Tricalysia cacondensis Hiern, causing defoliation and reduction in yield. To manage caterpillars, you can use insecticides, introduce natural enemies such as parasitic wasps and ladybirds, and practice crop rotation.
Prevention is the best strategy for managing diseases and pests in Tricalysia cacondensis Hiern. Good cultural practices such as sanitation, crop rotation, and use of disease-free planting materials can go a long way in preventing diseases and pests from affecting the plant.
