Description of Tricalysia pedunculosa
Tricalysia pedunculosa (N.Hallé) Robbr. var. pedunculosa is a species of flowering plant in the Rubiaceae family. It is native to the forests of West and Central Africa, including Cameroon, Gabon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Common Names
Tricalysia pedunculosa is known by many names in different African regions. In Cameroon, it is called "Nnor" by the Bantu people and "Ted-Bekai" by the Bakola Pygmies. The Fang people in Gabon call it "Nzoun."
Uses
The leaves of Tricalysia pedunculosa are commonly used by indigenous people in Africa to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, headache, and stomach pain. The bark and roots of the plant are also used for medicinal purposes. Additionally, the fruit of the plant is edible and is consumed by the local population.
Appearance
Tricalysia pedunculosa is a small tree, reaching a height of up to 10 meters. The leaves are simple, opposite, and elliptical, with a shiny green color and prominent veins. The flowers are small and white, arranged in clusters at the ends of branches. The fruit is a small, yellowish-orange berry that contains one or two seeds.
Light Conditions
Tricalysia pedunculosa (N.Hallé) Robbr. var. pedunculosa prefers filtered sunlight or partially shady conditions. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves of the plant. Therefore, it is best to place the plant near a shaded area or a curtain that filters the harsh rays of the sun.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Tricalysia pedunculosa (N.Hallé) Robbr. var. pedunculosa is between 23°C to 27°C. The plant is not frost-tolerant and cannot withstand cold temperatures. It is essential to maintain a consistent temperature, avoiding sudden temperature fluctuations like drafty windows and airconditioners, which might harm the growth and health of the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant needs well-draining and fertile soil for optimal growth. A mixture of peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite or sand with a pH range of 6-7.5 is suitable for the plant. Water the plant only when the soil becomes dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot and adversely impact the plant's growth and survival.
Cultivation
Tricalysia pedunculosa is a shade-loving plant and thrives best in a shaded or semi-shaded area. It can be grown as an indoor plant or outdoor plant depending on the climatic conditions. The plant prefers rich, well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including loam, sand, and clay soils, as long as they drain well.
Watering Needs
Tricalysia pedunculosa requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. The frequency of watering should be adjusted depending on the temperature and humidity of the surroundings. During the dry season, it may need more frequent watering, while less watering is required during the rainy season. It is important to avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot and other fungal infections.
Fertilization
The plant needs periodic fertilization to maintain its growth and vitality. It is recommended to use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer, applied at half-strength. Fertilizer should be applied during the growing season, which is usually from spring to autumn. It is important to avoid fertilizing the plant during the dormant season, which is usually from winter to early spring.
Pruning
Tricalysia pedunculosa may require pruning to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Pruning should be done during the active growing season. It is recommended to remove any dead or damaged branches, or any weak or spindly growth. Pruning can also help to control the size of the plant if it is becoming too large for its surroundings. It is important to use clean and sharp pruning tools to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Tricalysia pedunculosa (N.Hallé) Robbr. var. pedunculosa
Tricalysia pedunculosa (N.Hallé) Robbr. var. pedunculosa can be propagated through both seed and vegetative means.
Propagation through seed
Seeds of Tricalysia pedunculosa var. pedunculosa can be collected from mature fruits. The collected seeds can be sown in a prepared potting mix or soil. The ideal time for sowing the seeds is the beginning of the rainy season, as it favors the seed germination in the natural habitat. The seeded pots should be kept under shade with regular watering until germination. It may take 2-3 weeks for the seedlings to emerge. Once the seedlings are established, they can be gradually exposed to sunlight and transplanted to their final location when they are 3-4 months old.
Propagation through vegetative means
Tricalysia pedunculosa var. pedunculosa can be propagated through stem cuttings. The stem cuttings of the plant should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants. The cuttings should be made with sterilized pruning shears, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting. The cuttings can be directly planted into a prepared potting mix and kept in a humid environment with regular watering until they form roots. Once the cuttings have established roots, they can be transplanted into separate containers or directly planted into the ground in their final location.
Disease and Pest Management for Tricalysia pedunculosa
Tricalysia pedunculosa is generally a healthy plant, but it can occasionally be affected by certain pests and diseases. A healthy and well-maintained plant with optimal growing conditions is less susceptible to pest and disease problems. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Pest Management
1. Spider mites: These tiny insects can cause damage to the leaves by sucking sap from the plant. Symptoms of spider mite damage include tiny punctures on leaves, yellowing, wilting, and eventually death of the plant. To manage spider mites, try washing them off the plant with a strong spray of water, or use insecticidal soap.
2. Mealybugs: These insects resemble small, white, cottony masses on stems and leaves. They drain sap from the plant, causing poor growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage mealybugs, simply wash off the insects with a strong spray of water or use insecticidal soap.
3. Scale insects: These insects are small and immobile, often found on the stems and leaves of plants. They suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage scale insects, you can scrub them off with a toothbrush or cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, or use horticultural oil.
Disease Management
1. Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes small, circular spots on the leaves that gradually enlarge and turn brown or black. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy infected plant parts, avoid overcrowding, and ensure proper air circulation.
2. Root rot: This is a common disease caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Symptoms include yellowing of leaves, wilting, and plant death. To manage root rot, water plants less frequently and improve soil drainage.
3. Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes small, circular spots on the leaves that may be yellow, brown, or black. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected plant parts, improve air circulation, and avoid overhead watering.
Regular monitoring of the plants and preventive measures are the key to controlling pests and diseases. Proper management will ensure a healthy, vigorous plant that will add beauty to your garden.
