Contents
Description
Canthium Horridum is a small tree that belongs to the family Rubiaceae. It is commonly known as the Spiny Canthium or Mountain Coffee and is native to Africa. This plant is an evergreen shrub or tree that can grow up to 6 meters high. It is characterized by its spiny branches and leaves, which can grow up to 10 cm long. The flowers are small and white, and the fruit is a berry that turns red when ripe. The Spiny Canthium is known for its medicinal properties, and its bark and leaves are used to treat various ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Canthium |
Appearance
The Spiny Canthium has a unique appearance due to its spiny branches and leaves. The leaves are dark green and glossy, and the spines can be up to 5 cm long. The flowers are small and white, and the fruit is a berry that turns red when ripe. The bark is grey-brown, and the wood is hard and dense. This plant is an evergreen shrub or tree that can grow up to 6 meters high.
Care Guide
Canthium Horridum is a hardy plant that requires little maintenance. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every six months with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The Spiny Canthium prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant requires full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Spiny Canthium can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Spiny Canthium is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases. Here are some common pests and diseases:
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly-drained soil.
- Fungal Diseases: Canthium Horridum can be affected by various fungal diseases, including leaf spot and powdery mildew.
- Scale Insects: These insects can cause damage to the leaves and bark of the plant.
Habitat
The Spiny Canthium is native to Africa and can be found in various habitats, including forests, woodlands, and savannas. It prefers well-drained soil and can grow in both full sun and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Canthium Horridum a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, the bark and leaves of the Spiny Canthium are used to treat various ailments, including stomach disorders, fever, and malaria.
Q: Can Canthium Horridum grow indoors?
A: No, this plant prefers to grow outdoors in full sun or partial shade.
Q: Is the Spiny Canthium a fast-growing plant?
A: No, this plant grows at a moderate pace.
Q: Can Canthium Horridum tolerate drought?
A: Yes, this plant is drought-tolerant but prefers regular watering.
Related Plants
- Canthium latifolium
- Canthium inerme
- Canthium umbellatum
References
- https://www.flowersofindia.net/catalog/slides/Spiny%20Canthium.html
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/canthium-horridum
- https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/canthiumhorrid.htm
