Origin and Common Names
Voacanga psilocalyx Pierre ex Stapf is a plant species that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. It is native to tropical Africa, particularly to the Congo Basin, Cameroon, Gabon, and Equatorial Guinea. The plant is commonly known as Gaboon soldier, Courage herb, Gisal, and N'gbo.
Appearance and Characteristics
The Voacanga psilocalyx plant is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 15 meters in height. It has a straight and cylindrical trunk that is covered in a smooth grey-brown bark. The leaves are simple, alternate, and elliptic or oblong in shape, and can grow up to 30cm in length. The inflorescences are axillary and produce white or cream-colored flowers that are about 2cm in width.
The fruits of the Voacanga psilocalyx are large, ovoid, and green when immature, and turn black when they ripen. They contain several seeds that are enveloped in a fleshy aril.
Uses
The Voacanga psilocalyx plant has been traditionally used by several African tribes for its medicinal properties. The roots, bark, and leaves of the plant are used to treat various ailments such as malaria, fever, diarrhea, and dysentery. The bark and seeds contain numerous alkaloids such as voacangine, voacamine, and voccamidine, which have shown to have antimalarial and analgesic properties.
In some parts of Equatorial Guinea, the plant is also used as a hallucinogenic drug. The seeds of the plant are crushed and consumed either raw or mixed with other substances to induce a trance-like state.
Light Requirements
Voacanga psilocalyx requires bright but indirect sunlight to thrive. It is best grown in partial shade under the canopy of taller trees. Placing the plant in direct sunlight may cause its leaves to bleach, curl, and even drop off.
Temperature Requirements
These plants grow well in warm, humid environments. Optimum temperatures range between 18-27°C (65-80°F). During winter, temperatures must not drop below 15°C (59°F) as this may cause damage or even kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
These plants prefer rich, well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. A pH range of 5.5-7.0 is ideal for their growth. A good soil mix would contain organic matter such as leaf litter, compost, and peat moss. It is also recommended to add sand or perlite for better aeration.
Cultivation Methods
Voacanga psilocalyx Pierre ex Stapf is a plant that thrives in tropical climates and is typically grown outdoors. It requires plenty of sunlight, so it should be planted in an area that receives direct sunlight for at least six hours a day. It also needs well-draining soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. When planting, be sure to provide enough space for the plant to grow to its full size of up to 20 feet tall and 10 feet wide.
Propagation can be done by seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before planting. Cuttings should be taken from a mature plant and rooted in a propagation hormone before transplanting to a larger pot or in the ground.
Watering Needs
Voacanga psilocalyx Pierre ex Stapf needs moderate watering. It should be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on the temperature and humidity of the climate. The soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings to prevent overwatering and root rot. However, it's important to note that the plant should never be allowed to completely dry out either, as this can lead to leaf drop and stress.
Fertilization
Voacanga psilocalyx is a heavy feeder and requires regular fertilization. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied every four weeks during the growing season. Fertilizer should be discontinued during the dormant season.
Pruning
Pruning Voacanga psilocalyx is essential for maintaining its shape and size. It's important to prune it back in the spring just before the new growth emerges. The plant should be pruned to maintain a central leader and to remove any crossing branches. Dead or diseased branches should also be removed promptly.
Propagation of Voacanga psilocalyx
Voacanga psilocalyx is a rare plant species that has been found in Cameroon, Gabon, and the Republic of Congo. It can be propagated through various methods, including seed propagation, stem cuttings, and grafting.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Voacanga psilocalyx. The seeds are usually collected from the fruits when they are matured. The fruit is then left to ripen and become yellow before it is harvested. The seeds are carefully extracted and cleaned before being sown. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and kept moist until they sprout. The seedlings can be transplanted after they have grown big enough to handle.
Stem Cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is another method of propagating Voacanga psilocalyx. The cuttings should be taken from mature, healthy plants that are at least 2-3 years old. The cuttings should be about 10-15 cm long and should be taken from the lateral branches. The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone powder and then planted in a soilless medium. The cuttings should be kept moist and warm until they have developed roots. The rooted cuttings can then be transplanted into pots or the ground.
Grafting
Grafting is a method of propagation that involves joining a scion of one plant onto the rootstock of another. This method is used when a desirable plant cannot be propagated using other methods. Voacanga psilocalyx can be grafted onto rootstocks of other Voacanga species or other closely related species. The scions should be taken from mature, healthy plants that are at least 2-3 years old. The grafting should be done during the growing season, and the plant should be kept in a warm and humid environment until the graft has taken.
Disease and Pest Management of Voacanga psilocalyx Pierre ex Stapf
Voacanga psilocalyx Pierre ex Stapf, also known as African dream herb, is a perennial shrub native to West Africa. While generally considered to have few disease and pest problems, there are a few potential issues to keep in mind when growing this plant.
Common Diseases
One common disease that can affect Voacanga psilocalyx is leaf spot. This fungal disease presents as dark spots on leaves, which can eventually lead to defoliation of the plant. Removing affected leaves and practicing good sanitation, such as removing fallen leaves and debris from around the plant, can help prevent the spread of this disease. Fungicides may also be applied as a preventative measure.
Common Pests
One insect pest that can be problematic for Voacanga psilocalyx is the glassy-winged sharpshooter. This pest feeds on the sap of the plant and can cause wilting, leaf drop, and stunted growth. Insecticides can be used to control this pest, but they must be applied early in the infestation for best results.
Another common pest is the spider mite. These tiny pests feed on the undersides of leaves and can cause yellowing and eventually death of the affected leaves. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used to manage spider mite infestations, but care must be taken to apply the treatment thoroughly to the undersides of leaves.
Preventative Measures
Preventing disease and pest problems can be accomplished through good plant care practices, such as proper watering, fertilization, and pruning. Additionally, regularly inspecting plants for signs of disease or pests is important for catching issues before they become severe.
When treating disease or pest problems, always read and follow the instructions on any chemical products used. It is also important to follow safety precautions, such as wearing gloves and protective clothing, when applying these products.
By taking preventative measures and quickly addressing any disease or pest problems that do arise, you can successfully grow healthy and thriving Voacanga psilocalyx plants.
