Origin and Common Names
Tricalysia okelensis Hiern var. oblanceolata (Hutch. & Dalziel) Keay is a flowering plant species native to West Africa. It is commonly known as "Akatare" in the Yoruba language of Nigeria.
Uses
The plant has various medicinal uses in traditional medicine. It has been used to treat malaria, respiratory infections, and stomach ailments. The leaves are also used as a laxative and to lower blood pressure. The roots have been used as a remedy for fever and as a pain reliever.
General Appearance
Tricalysia okelensis Hiern var. oblanceolata is a small shrub or tree that can grow up to 6 meters tall. It has dark green, glossy, oblong leaves that are arranged alternately on the stem. The plant produces small, white, fragrant flowers that bloom from August to October and produce fruit that is red when ripe.
Light Requirements
Tricalysia okelensis Hiern var. oblanceolata (Hutch. & Dalziel) Keay prefers bright, indirect sunlight to thrive. Direct exposure to full sunlight may damage the leaves and hinder growth. It is essential to place the plant in a location where it can receive at least 4 hours of sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant needs a stable and warm temperature to grow, as it is native to tropical regions. The ideal range of temperature for Tricalysia okelensis Hiern var. oblanceolata (Hutch. & Dalziel) Keay is between 65°F to 85°F (18°C-29°C). It does not tolerate sudden temperature fluctuations and prefers a stable, warm environment.
Soil Requirements
Tricalysia okelensis Hiern var. oblanceolata (Hutch. & Dalziel) Keay requires well-draining and nutrient-rich soil to grow. A loamy and well-aerated soil mix is ideal for this plant. The soil pH should be between 5.5 to 7.0. It is important to allow the soil to dry slightly between watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and ultimately kill the plant.
Cultivation
The Tricalysia okelensis Hiern var. oblanceolata (Hutch. & Dalziel) Keay is a plant that thrives in subtropical climates and can be grown in a wide range of soils. The plant prefers loamy soil that is rich in organic matter and well-draining. It requires partial sunlight for up to 3-4 hours a day to survive and grow healthily.
Watering Needs
It is essential to ensure that the Tricalysia okelensis Hiern var. oblanceolata (Hutch. & Dalziel) Keay is adequately watered. It requires regular watering, preferably twice a week to maintain a consistent moisture level in the soil. Ensure that the soil is not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot and the death of the plant. The frequency of watering can be reduced during the cold season.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth, it is necessary to fertilize the Tricalysia okelensis Hiern var. oblanceolata (Hutch. & Dalziel) Keay. Use slow-release fertilizers that are rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to provide essential nutrients to the plant. Fertilize every two months during the growing season as required.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential maintenance practice for the Tricalysia okelensis Hiern var. oblanceolata (Hutch. & Dalziel) Keay. Prune regularly to promote bushy growth and remove any dead or diseased branches. It is recommended to prune during the growing season to avoid stress on the plant.
Propagation of Tricalysia okelensis Hiern var. oblanceolata (Hutch. & Dalziel) Keay
Tricalysia okelensis Hiern var. oblanceolata (Hutch. & Dalziel) Keay can be propagated through various methods which include:
1. Seeds propagation
The seeds of Tricalysia okelensis Hiern var. oblanceolata (Hutch. & Dalziel) Keay are tiny, and propagation through seeds can be a bit challenging, and that is why it's necessary to plant many seeds at once because not all of them will germinate. The germination process is also slow, and it can take up to six months for the seeds to sprout.
Before planting, the seeds should be cleaned and soaked in water for 24 hours. Afterward, plant them in a seedbed, cover them with a thin layer of sand and keep them in a warm area that receives indirect sunlight. The seedbed should be kept moist by watering them from below or by misting.
2. Stem cuttings propagation
Propagation of Tricalysia okelensis Hiern var. oblanceolata (Hutch. & Dalziel) Keay through stem cuttings is more reliable than seed propagation. It's important to take cuttings from healthy plants for better results. Select a stem with mature leaves and cut it right below the node where the leaves meet the stem. The cutting should be at least 6 inches long.
Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cutting in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a soil mix of peat moss and perlite, with the node buried in the soil. Water the cutting and cover it with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. Place the pot in a warm and bright room, but avoid direct sunlight. Once the cutting establishes roots and new growth appears, it can be transplanted into a larger pot or permanent location.
3. Air layering propagation
Air layering is another propagation method for Tricalysia okelensis Hiern var. oblanceolata (Hutch. & Dalziel) Keay, and it's more effective than seed propagation but less reliable than stem cuttings.
To do air layering, select a healthy stem and make a small cut on the lower part of the stem without cutting all the way through. Apply rooting hormone powder on the cut and cover it with moist sphagnum moss. Wrap the moss with plastic wrap and secure it with tape. The plastic wrap should be tight enough to prevent water from entering but loose enough to allow air circulation. Check the moss regularly and keep it moist by spraying it with water.
After about four to six weeks, roots should start growing, and the stem can then be cut off below the moss. Plant the rooted stem in a pot filled with potting soil, water it, and place it in a bright, warm area that receives indirect sunlight.
Disease and Pest Management for Tricalysia okelensis Hiern var. oblanceolata (Hutch. & Dalziel) Keay
Tricalysia okelensis Hiern var. oblanceolata (Hutch. & Dalziel) Keay is a plant species that is generally resistant to most diseases and pests. However, when grown under unfavorable conditions, the plant may become susceptible to various pests and diseases. Therefore, it is important to maintain proper cultural practices, such as watering and fertilization, to keep the plant healthy and disease-free. In case of infection, the following management practices can be applied:
Common Diseases
Root Rot: Root rot is a common disease that affects Tricalysia okelensis. This disease is caused by soil-borne pathogens and can cause wilting, yellowing, and dying of leaves. To manage this disease, one can follow the following practices:
- Avoid overwatering the plant as it prefers well-draining soil
- Control mosquito breeding since they potentially transmit the disease
- Apply fungicides early in the infection when the disease is in its early phase
- Remove the affected plants and dispose of them in the trash can to prevent the spread of the disease
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is another common disease that can affect Tricalysia okelensis. It is caused by bacteria or fungi that form small, circular spots on the leaves, causing them to die. To manage this disease, the following practices can be followed:
- Ensure the plant is well-ventilated to reduce the humidity level
- Remove the affected leaves immediately and dispose of them in the trash can
- Apply a copper-based fungicide as soon as the first sign of the disease is sighted
Common Pests
Mites: Mites are one of the common pests that can infest Tricalysia okelensis. They feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and eventual dropping of leaves. To control mites, the following practices can be implemented:
- Regularly inspect the plant to spot mites' infestations early
- Wash the plant with water or spray insecticidal soap on the plant to kill the mites
- Prune off the affected leaves if the infestation is severe
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are another common pest that can infest Tricalysia okelensis. They feed on the sap of the plant and can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off the plant. To control mealybugs, the following practices can be applied:
- Spray a solution of water and dish soap on the affected parts of the plant
- Wipe off the mealybugs using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol
- Introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings to feed on the mealybugs
By following the above practices, one can keep Tricalysia okelensis healthy and disease-free while maintaining optimal growth and yield.
