Overview
Tricalysia pobeguinii Hutch. & Dalziel is a species of plant native to West Africa. It belongs to the coffee family (Rubiaceae) and is closely related to coffee plants.
Common Names
The plant is known by several local names including "Akogepa" in the Ewe language, "Olodumare" in the Yoruba language, and "Efu-ehintiama" in the Igbo language.
Uses
The plant has traditional medicinal uses in West Africa. It is commonly used to treat malaria and fever, as well as other ailments such as diarrhea, stomach ache, and hepatitis. The roots and stems contain compounds that have been found to have antiplasmodial and antioxidant properties.
Besides its medicinal uses, Tricalysia pobeguinii is also locally used for chewing stick and as a shade tree in coffee farms.
Appearance
Tricalysia pobeguinii is a small tree that can grow up to 7 meters in height. Its leaves are glossy and oval-shaped, and it produces small, greenish-white flowers that later develop into red or dark purple berries. The tree has an overall lush and vibrant appearance, with a dense crown that provides ample shade.
Light Requirements
Tricalysia pobeguinii Hutch. & Dalziel prefers a partially shaded environment. Ideal light intensity for growth falls within 50% to 70%, making it perfect for tropical rain forest understory conditions.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can survive in temperatures as low as 10°C and as high as 30°C. However, the ideal temperature for Tricalysia pobeguinii Hutch. & Dalziel growth is between 20°C to 25°C. If the temperature falls below 10°C, the growth of the plant will be inhibited.
Soil Requirements
Tricalysia pobeguinii Hutch. & Dalziel grows well on well-drained, nutrient-rich, and acidic soils. It is important to note that the quality of soil plays a vital role in plant growth. The soil must be moist but not waterlogged, with a pH level of 4.5 to 5.5. It is advisable to mix the soil with organic matter like compost or manure before planting to increase the nutrient content of the soil.
Cultivation methods
Tricalysia pobeguinii Hutch. & Dalziel prefers a partially shady environment and a humid climate. It can be cultivated in pots or in well-draining soil outdoors.
Watering needs
The plant is sensitive to drying out, so regular watering is necessary to keep the soil evenly moist. Watering should be adjusted to the weather conditions, reducing the frequency during rainy periods.
Fertilization
The plant can benefit from occasional fertilization to encourage growth and flowering. A balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or 15-15-15 can be applied every two to three months during the growing season.
Pruning
Pruning is not typically necessary for Tricalysia pobeguinii Hutch. & Dalziel, but if needed, it should be done after flowering to avoid cutting off potential buds. Dead or diseased branches can be removed at any time.
Propagation of Tricalysia pobeguinii Hutch. & Dalziel
Tricalysia pobeguinii Hutch. & Dalziel can be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
Fresh seeds of Tricalysia pobeguinii Hutch. & Dalziel are collected from mature fruits. The collected seeds are cleaned and soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat. After the seeds have been soaked, they are sown in a well-draining potting mix and covered lightly with soil. The pot should then be watered and kept in a partially shaded area. Germination usually occurs within 3-4 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots when they are 2-3 inches tall.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Tricalysia pobeguinii Hutch. & Dalziel can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Cuttings are collected from healthy plant stems, preferably 4-6 inches in length. The cuttings are then stripped of their lower leaves, leaving only 2-3 leaves at the top. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and then planted in a well-draining potting mix. The pot should be watered and kept in a warm, partially shaded area. The cuttings usually root within 3-4 weeks and can be transplanted into individual pots once their roots are well established.
Disease and Pest Management for Tricalysia pobeguinii Hutch. & Dalziel
Tricalysia pobeguinii Hutch. & Dalziel is a plant species that is native to West Africa, known for its medicinal properties and ornamental value. To maintain the optimal health and productivity of this plant, it is essential to manage the diseases and pests that can affect it. Here are some common diseases and pests that might attack Tricalysia pobeguinii Hutch. & Dalziel and ways to deal with them:
Diseases
Leaf Spots: Tricalysia pobeguinii Hutch. & Dalziel is susceptible to leaf spot diseases caused by fungal pathogens such as Cercospora and Septoria. The infected leaves develop brown or black spots that grow in size and ultimately cause the leaves to defoliate. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and destroy them. Prune the plant to enhance air circulation and prevent damp conditions that favor fungal growth.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of Tricalysia pobeguinii Hutch. & Dalziel. The disease causes a white, powdery growth on the plant’s surface, leading to stunted growth, defoliation, and poor productivity. To control powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering, and ensure adequate spacing between plants. Apply a fungicide such as sulfur or neem oil to the plant’s surface, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking pests that feed on Tricalysia pobeguinii Hutch. & Dalziel’s leaves, causing them to curl and turn yellow. The infected plant becomes weakened, stunt its growth, and produce fewer flowers and fruits. To control infestations of spider mites, apply insecticidal soaps or neem oil to the plant’s surface, paying close attention to the undersides of the leaves where the pests congregate. Remove the heavily infested leaves and destroy them.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are soft-bodied insects that suck sap from Tricalysia pobeguinii Hutch. & Dalziel, leading to stunted growth, yellow leaves, and discolored fruits. These pests excrete a honeydew substance that attracts ants and promotes the growth of sooty mold. To manage mealybug infestations, apply a systemic insecticide such as imidacloprid, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Alternatively, you can use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove the pests manually. Maintain good hygiene around the plant, keeping it clear of debris and fallen leaves that can harbor pests and diseases.
