Origin
Tricalysia obanensis Keay subsp. obanensis is a plant species that is native to West and Central Africa.
Common Names
Some common names for this plant include Oban Tricalysia, Oban Coffee, and Oban Tea.
Uses
The leaves and stem of Tricalysia obanensis Keay subsp. obanensis are commonly harvested to make a herbal tea that is believed to have medicinal properties. The plant has traditionally been used to treat various health conditions including fever, headaches, and gastrointestinal disorders. The tea is often used as a natural remedy to promote relaxation and relieve stress. The plant is also used as a flavoring agent for food and beverages.
General Appearance
Tricalysia obanensis Keay subsp. obanensis is a shrubby plant that grows up to 5 meters tall. It has oval-shaped leaves that are dark green in color and grow up to 8 cm long. The plant has small, white or pale yellow flowers that bloom in clusters. The fruit of the plant is a small, red berry that contains one or two seeds.
Light Requirements
Tricalysia obanensis Keay subsp. obanensis typically grows in areas with filtered or partial sunlight. It thrives in areas under the canopies of taller trees in tropical rainforests. Direct sunlight may lead to leaf scorch and dryness, so it is best to avoid such exposure. It can handle some shade, but excessive shade can lead to stunted growth and limited flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Tricalysia obanensis Keay subsp. obanensis is between 20-25°C (68-77°F). It is a tropical plant and cannot tolerate extreme cold temperatures, which can lead to frost damage. It may also suffer from heat damage under high-temperature conditions. Thus, it requires a stable and moderate temperature for optimal growth and development.
Soil Requirements
Tricalysia obanensis Keay subsp. obanensis prefers soils that are rich in organic matter and well-drained. It needs consistent moisture, but excessive waterlogging can be detrimental to its growth. A slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 5.5-7.5 is ideal for this plant. Sandy soil may encourage faster drainage, but it may require frequent watering to maintain moisture levels. Heavy clay soils may tend to retain more water and could lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Tricalysia obanensis Keay subsp. obanensis is a tropical plant that thrives in warm and humid climates. It grows best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant requires partial shade to full sun depending on the climate. It can be propagated using seeds or cuttings.
The ideal temperature for the plant to thrive is between 73°F and 86°F. It is essential to avoid planting it in places that are prone to strong winds. Mulching around the plant can help regulate soil temperature and moisture.
Watering Needs
Tricalysia obanensis Keay subsp. obanensis requires a consistent supply of moisture to grow best. It needs frequent watering during the dry seasons, but the plant should not be waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot which can kill the plant.
It is recommended that the plant be watered early in the morning or late in the evening when the temperature is cool. Installing a drip irrigation system is also an effective way of controlling the water supply to the plant.
Fertilization
The addition of fertilizers can significantly boost the growth of Tricalysia obanensis Keay subsp. obanensis. A balanced fertilizer with all the essential micronutrients is recommended. Appropriate application of fertilizer will promote lush foliage and abundant flowering.
The fertilizer should be applied during the growing season. However, overfertilization should be avoided as it can lead to the buildup of salts in the soil, which is harmful to the plant.
Pruning
Regular pruning is essential to keep Tricalysia obanensis Keay subsp. obanensis in good shape. It helps to shape the plant, control its growth, and remove dead or diseased parts. Pruning should be done using sharp and sterile tools to avoid injuring the plant.
The best time to prune is after the flowering season, which is typically in late winter or early spring. Pruning during this period helps promote new growth and prepares the plant for the next blooming season.
Propagation of Tricalysia obanensis Keay subsp. obanensis
Tricalysia obanensis Keay subsp. obanensis is propagated by both seeds and stem cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Tricalysia obanensis Keay subsp. obanensis are collected from mature fruits. The collected seeds are cleaned, dried, and stored in a cool and dry place. The seeds remain viable for up to three months.
Before sowing, the seeds are soaked in water for 24 hours. The soaked seeds are then sown in a pot or a seed tray filled with a well-draining potting mix. The seeds are covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist. The seedlings emerge within two to three weeks.
The seedlings are transplanted to individual pots when they have developed two to three true leaves. The plants are kept in a shaded area for the first few months and gradually acclimatized to the sun.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is a faster method of propagating Tricalysia obanensis Keay subsp. obanensis than by seeds. The stem cuttings are taken from the mature plants during the growing season.
The stem cuttings should be 8-10 cm long and have 2-3 nodes. The lower leaves are removed, and a hormone rooting powder is applied to the cut ends. The cuttings are planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept in a shaded area.
The cuttings should be kept moist, and the rooting should occur within 4-6 weeks. Once rooted, the young plants are transplanted to individual pots and acclimatized to the sun.
Propagation by stem cuttings is a reliable method and produces plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Tricalysia obanensis Keay subsp. obanensis
Tricalysia obanensis Keay subsp. obanensis is a plant species that is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Effective disease and pest management are essential to ensure a healthy and productive yield.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Tricalysia obanensis Keay subsp. obanensis is powdery mildew. This is a fungal disease that can cause a whitish-gray coating on leaves and stems, leading to stunted growth and reduced yields. To manage powdery mildew, proactive steps include planting resistant varieties, proper spacing, and ensuring adequate air circulation in the plant canopy. Additionally, applying fungicides such as copper-based fungicides can help in controlling the spread of powdery mildew.
Another disease that can affect Tricalysia obanensis Keay subsp. obanensis is leaf rust. This is also a fungal infection that can cause yellowing of leaves and premature leaf drop, ultimately leading to reduced yields. Proper sanitation, such as removing and destroying infected plant parts, is crucial in managing the spread of leaf rust. Chemical treatments such as fungicides can also be used before the onset of leaf rust to prevent the disease from spreading.
Common Pests
Leafminer is a common pest that can affect Tricalysia obanensis Keay subsp. obanensis. This pest can cause significant damage to the plant by creating tunnels within the leaves, leading to reduced photosynthesis. One way to manage leafminer is by introducing natural predators such as parasitoid wasps or applying insecticides. Proper sanitation and removing infected leaves can also help manage the spread.
Another common pest that can be a problem for Tricalysia obanensis Keay subsp. obanensis is aphids. These pests can cause significant damage to the plant by sucking the sap from the leaves, causing wilting and reduced growth. Effective management of aphids includes introducing predator insects such as ladybugs and lacewings or using insecticides. Regular washing of plants with a strong water jet can also help remove them.
