Overview
Tricalysia coriaceoides De Wild. is a plant species from the Rubiaceae family that is native to the African continent.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known by several names such as "Kafa mbili" or "Celestine's coffee" due to its use as a coffee substitute in some regions. In Cameroon, the plant is called "Effock" while it is called "Adumargbo" in Nigeria.
Appearance
Tricalysia coriaceoides De Wild. is a shrub or small tree that grows up to 4-8 m tall. It has a smooth and greyish bark with elliptic leaves that are dark green and glossy. The leaves grow to about 15 cm long and 7 cm wide and have a leathery texture. The flowers of this plant are small, white and are borne in clusters that arise from the axils of the leaves.
Uses
The plant is used for various medicinal purposes such as treating malaria, fever and stomachache. It is also used as a substitute for coffee in some regions, as the seeds contain caffeine. The plant is also used as a dye and for its tannin content that is used in tanning animal hides into leather.
Light Requirements
Tricalysia coriaceoides De Wild. requires moderate to bright light to grow properly. In the wild, this plant is understory species, which means that they prefer dappled sunlight. However, when grown indoors, make sure to place the plant near a bright window where it can receive direct sunlight for at least four hours a day.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Tricalysia coriaceoides De Wild. is between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F), which mimics the temperature range in tropical forests. Provide a warm enough environment to encourage growth and avoid placing the plant near cold drafts or air conditioning units, as it can cause the plant to wilt or die.
Soil Requirements
Tricalysia coriaceoides De Wild. prefers a well-draining soil mix that can retain moisture but does not become waterlogged. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and bark works well for this plant species. The soil should also be slightly acidic, with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. When grown indoors, make sure to use a pot with drainage holes to prevent overwatering.
Cultivation
Tricalysia coriaceoides De Wild. is a tropical plant that thrives well in warm and humid climates. It is easy to grow and can be cultivated in a variety of soils types, including sandy loam, clay loam, and laterite. The plant prefers a well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. The ideal planting time is during the rainy season, as the plant requires adequate moisture for establishment.
Propagation of Tricalysia coriaceoides De Wild. can be done using seeds or stem cuttings. Seeds can be sowed directly into prepared soil, while stem cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until roots are established.
Watering Needs
Tricalysia coriaceoides De Wild. requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. The plant prefers a consistent moisture level and should not be allowed to dry out. Overwatering should also be avoided as it can lead to root rot and other diseases. It is recommended to water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions.
Fertilization
Tricalysia coriaceoides De Wild. benefits from periodic fertilization to promote healthy growth and flowering. A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 15-15-15 can be applied every two to three months during the growing season. Organic fertilizers such as compost or well-rotted manure can also be used to enrich the soil.
Pruning
Pruning can help maintain the shape and size of Tricalysia coriaceoides De Wild. as well as promote healthy growth. The best time to prune the plant is during the late winter or early spring before the growing season begins. Dead or diseased branches should be removed immediately to prevent the spread of diseases. Light pruning can also be done throughout the year to remove any crossing or overcrowded branches.
Propagation of Tricalysia coriaceoides De Wild.
Tricalysia coriaceoides De Wild. can be propagated through various methods such as seed propagation, stem cuttings, and grafting.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Tricalysia coriaceoides can be extracted from the dried fruits and sown immediately. The seeds should be placed on a moist medium and placed under shade. The seeds germinate within 3-4 weeks. Once the seedlings have two sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or a nursery bed.
Stem Cuttings
Cuttings from healthy, disease-free stems of Tricalysia coriaceoides can also be used to propagate the plant. The cuttings should be obtained during the growing season and should be about 10-12 cm long with at least two nodes. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and placed in a rooting medium such as sand, perlite or vermiculite. The cuttings should be kept moist and under shade until they develop roots. Once they have rooted, they can be transplanted into individual pots or a nursery bed.
Grafting
Grafting is another method that can be used to propagate Tricalysia coriaceoides. It involves joining a scion (the part of the plant that will bear the desired fruit or flowers) to a rootstock (the plant's underground portion). Grafting can be used to create plants with desirable traits, such as disease resistance or increased fruit yield. It is commonly used in commercial cultivation methods.
Disease and Pest Management for Tricalysia coriaceoides De Wild.
Tricalysia coriaceoides De Wild. is a species of small tree in the family Rubiaceae that is commonly found in Africa. Like many other plants, it is susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can affect its growth and overall health. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and some ways to manage them.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can weaken and damage Tricalysia coriaceoides De Wild. They feed on the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and distorted flowers. To manage an aphid infestation, you can prune off infested leaves and stems, spray the plant with a strong jet of water, or use an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Mites: Mites are tiny pests that can be difficult to see with the naked eye. They typically feed on the undersides of leaves, causing yellowing and bronzing of the foliage. To manage a mite infestation, you can prune off infested leaves and stems, spray the plant with a strong jet of water, or use an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larval stage of certain moths and butterflies. They can feed on the foliage and flowers of Tricalysia coriaceoides De Wild., causing cosmetic damage. To manage a caterpillar infestation, you can handpick the caterpillars off the plant, spray the plant with a natural insecticide such as Bacillus thuringiensis, or introduce natural predators such as birds or parasitic wasps.
Diseases
Root rot: Tricalysia coriaceoides De Wild. is susceptible to root rot, which is caused by a fungal infection in the soil. Symptoms of root rot include wilting, yellowing leaves, and stunted growth. To manage root rot, you can remove affected plants from the soil, improve soil drainage and aeration, and avoid overwatering.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that can affect the foliage of Tricalysia coriaceoides De Wild. It causes brown or yellow spots on the leaves and can lead to defoliation. To manage leaf spot, you can prune off affected leaves and destroy them, avoid overhead watering, and apply a fungicide to the plant.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is another fungal disease that can affect the leaves of Tricalysia coriaceoides De Wild. It causes a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves and can lead to defoliation. To manage powdery mildew, you can prune off affected leaves and destroy them, avoid overhead watering, and apply a fungicide to the plant.
Overall, by taking proactive steps to prevent and manage diseases and pests, you can help keep Tricalysia coriaceoides De Wild. healthy and thriving.
