Origin and Common Names
Weihea zenkeri Engl. is a plant species commonly known as the Devil's Horn or African Devil's Trumpet. It is endemic to tropical regions of West and Central Africa, specifically in countries of Cameroon, Gabon, and Congo.
General Appearance
The Weihea zenkeri Engl. plant is a towering woody climber that can grow up to 40 meters long. The plant's bark is grayish-brown, smooth, and has sparsely distributed lenticels. Its leaves are ovate or elliptical, shiny, and hairless; growing up to 22cm long and 12cm wide. The plant's flowers are large and trumpet-shaped, up to 30cm long, with a dark red color and yellowish-green base. The fruit is oval-shaped with a length of up to 8cm and a diameter of 5cm, containing numerous brown and flat seeds.
Uses
Weihea zenkeri Engl. has a range of medicinal uses among the indigenous people of the African regions it's found in. It has been used to treat fever, diarrhea, and stomachaches. Parts of the plant, including its roots and leaves, are also used as purgatives and to manage respiratory problems. The plant's bark has been reported to have antibacterial activity against a variety of bacteria and has been used to dress wounds. The Weihea zenkeri Engl. plant also has ornamental uses and is grown commercially for its large and attractive flowers.
Light Requirements
Weihea zenkeri Engl. requires bright but indirect light. It can be grown in partial shade or filtered light. Too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm, tropical temperatures between 20-30°C (68-86°F). It can tolerate cooler temperatures, but not below 15°C (59°F). Keep the plant away from cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.
Soil Requirements
Weihea zenkeri Engl. prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Soil should be rich in organic matter, with a mix of loam and peat moss. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, and the pot must have adequate drainage.
Cultivation
Weihea zenkeri Engl. is a tropical plant that thrives in warm environments. It should be grown in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers to be grown in partial shade, making it an excellent choice for indoor growing or shady areas in the garden.
Watering Needs
The plant requires frequent watering, especially during the growing season. It is recommended to water the plant when the soil becomes dry to the touch. Weihea zenkeri Engl. prefers moist soil but should not be left in standing water. Over-watering can lead to root rot and other health issues.
Fertilization
To provide the plant with the necessary nutrients, it is recommended to fertilize it every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Stop fertilizing the plant during the dormant season to allow for a natural rest period.
Pruning
Weihea zenkeri Engl. requires minimal pruning. It is advisable to remove any dead or dying leaves to promote healthy growth. Regular pruning of the plant can help to control its size and shape. It is best to prune the plant during the growing season for optimum results.
Propagation of Weihea Zenkeri Engl.
Weihea Zenkeri Engl. is a beautiful, evergreen plant that is widely found in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant is easy to propagate and can be grown from seeds, cuttings, and division. The propagation method varies depending on the type of propagation desired, and different techniques can be used to achieve the desired results.
Seed propagation
Propagation of Weihea Zenkeri Engl. from seeds is easy and straightforward. Seeds are collected from the plant during the flowering season and are sown in containers filled with a well-draining, light, and aerated planting medium. Cover the seeds lightly with the planting medium and maintain adequate moisture and temperature levels until germination.
Germination takes place within 4-6 weeks, and once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots filled with well-draining potting soil. The seedlings should be grown in bright, indirect light and kept moist at all times until they are established.
Propagation from cuttings
Weihea Zenkeri Engl. can be propagated from stem cuttings taken during the growing season. Take 4-5 inch long cuttings from healthy, disease-free plants, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining, light, and aerated medium and maintain adequate moisture levels.
The cuttings should be kept in bright, indirect light and monitored for any signs of wilting or drying out. Once the cuttings have produced roots and have developed new growth, they can be transplanted into individual pots filled with well-draining potting soil.
Propagation by division
Propagation of Weihea Zenkeri Engl. by division is the simplest and most common method of propagation. The process involves dividing the plant into multiple sections and replanting them in individual containers.
To divide the plant, take it out of the pot carefully and remove any excess soil. Carefully separate the plant into sections, making sure each section has a portion of the root system attached. Plant each section in individual pots filled with well-draining potting soil, and maintain adequate moisture levels until the plant is established.
Overall, propagation of Weihea Zenkeri Engl. is easy and straightforward, and each propagation method can be used to achieve different results. With the right care and attention, a healthy and beautiful plant can be grown from any of these propagation methods.
Disease Management
Weihea zenkeri Engl. is prone to different types of fungal diseases, such as anthracnose, root rot, and leaf spot. Anthracnose is characterized by irregularly shaped brown spots on leaves and stems, while root rot causes the plant to wilt easily and have discolored roots. Leaf spot, as its name suggests, causes the leaves to have circular spots.
To manage these diseases, it is important to maintain good sanitation practices and avoid water stress. Make sure that the plant is not overwatered, and remove any infected plant parts immediately. Fungicide sprays can also be applied to prevent or contain the spread of fungal diseases.
Pest Management
Concerning pest management, the most common pests that affect Weihea zenkeri Engl. are mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Mealybugs are white, cotton-like pests that feed on the plant's sap, while spider mites are tiny arachnids that cause leaves to turn yellow and lose their vigor. Scale insects, on the other hand, appear as bumps on leaves and stems and feed by sucking plant juices.
To manage these pests, a combination of mechanical and chemical methods can be used. Mechanical methods include physically removing the pests by hand or using a stream of water to wash the plant. Chemical methods involve using insecticidal sprays to kill the pests. It is important to note that different pests may require different types of insecticides, so it is recommended to consult with a professional for the appropriate product and application method.
