Contents
Description
Rauvolfia Caffra, also known as Quinine tree, is a species of evergreen shrub or small tree that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. It is native to eastern and southern Africa and can grow up to 10 meters in height. The plant has a straight trunk and a dense crown with glossy, dark green leaves that are elliptical in shape. The flowers of Rauvolfia Caffra are small and white, and they bloom in clusters. The fruit is a round capsule that contains numerous seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Rauvolfia |
Appearance
Rauvolfia Caffra has a neat and tidy appearance with a dense crown of glossy, dark green leaves that are elliptical in shape. The shrub or small tree has a straight trunk that can grow up to 10 meters in height. The flowers of Rauvolfia Caffra are small and white, and they bloom in clusters. The fruit is a round capsule that contains numerous seeds. The plant exudes a milky sap when cut or damaged.
Care Guide
Rauvolfia Caffra is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. However, following a few guidelines can help the plant to thrive:
Water: Rauvolfia Caffra prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly during the growing season and reduce watering in winter.
Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: Rauvolfia Caffra prefers well-drained, sandy soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Rauvolfia Caffra is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rauvolfia Caffra is generally a pest-free plant. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil.The plant can also be affected by leaf spot disease, which causes brown spots on the leaves. This can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and maintaining good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Rauvolfia Caffra is native to eastern and southern Africa and can be found in a wide range of habitats, including woodlands, savannas, and rocky hillsides. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Rauvolfia Caffra poisonous?
A: Yes, all parts of the Rauvolfia Caffra plant are poisonous and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and cardiac arrest if ingested.Q: Can Rauvolfia Caffra be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Rauvolfia Caffra can be grown indoors in a bright location with well-drained soil.Q: What is the medicinal use of Rauvolfia Caffra?
A: Rauvolfia Caffra has been used in traditional medicine to treat high blood pressure and mental disorders.Q: Can Rauvolfia Caffra be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, Rauvolfia Caffra can be propagated by stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Related Plants
- Rauvolfia serpentina
- Rauvolfia vomitoria
- Rauvolfia tetraphylla
- Rauvolfia verticillata
References
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/rauvolfia
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/rauvolfia-caffra
- https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantqrs/rauvolfcaf.htm
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rauvolfia
