Origin
Acacia flava (Forssk.) Schweinf. forma chariensis (A.Chev.) Roberty is a species of plant in the Fabaceae family. It is native to North Africa, specifically in Algeria, Libya, and Tunisia.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as "faidherbia acacia" in English and "akâss" or "kantoum" in Arabic.
Uses
Acacia flava (Forssk.) Schweinf. forma chariensis (A.Chev.) Roberty is a valuable plant for a variety of uses. The seed pods are edible, and the local people harvest them for food. The leaves, bark, and seeds have medicinal properties, and they are used to treat various ailments like colds, flu, and gastrointestinal problems. Additionally, the tree is used for fuel, charcoal production, and various woodwork. It is a valuable source of income for local communities.
General Appearance
The plant is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 15 meters tall. The bark is grey and rough, with deep furrows. The crown is usually round or globular, and the leaves are bipinnately compound and feathery. The flowers are small, yellowish, and clustered in spherical inflorescences. The fruit is a straight and flat seedpod, which is dark brown and slightly curved.
Light
Acacia flava forma chariensis requires full sun or partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as prolifically.
Temperature
This plant prefers warm temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C. It can tolerate brief periods of frost but extended exposure to temperatures below 0°C can be detrimental to its growth.
Soil
Acacia flava forma chariensis thrives in a well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils. The soil should be rich in organic matter and contain sufficient nutrients for healthy growth. As a legume, Acacia flava forma chariensis can fix its nitrogen and does not require high nitrogen concentrations in the soil. However, it still requires other essential nutrients such as phosphorous, potassium, and calcium.
Cultivation Methods
Acacia flava (Forssk.) Schweinf. forma chariensis (A.Chev.) Roberty requires a warm and dry climate. It is best grown in well-draining sandy or loamy soils. The plant prefers full sun and should be placed in a location with good air circulation. Seedlings should be planted with a spacing of around 2 meters apart.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering in its first year, after which it can tolerate dry conditions. Watering should be done when the topsoil is dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for the plant, as it can fix nitrogen from the atmosphere. However, adding some organic compost or vermicompost during the planting stage can help to improve soil quality.
Pruning
Acacia flava (Forssk.) Schweinf. forma chariensis (A.Chev.) Roberty requires minimal pruning, but dead, damaged or diseased branches should be removed promptly. Any pruning should be done during the dormant season, which is usually in late winter or early spring.
Propagation of Acacia flava forma chariensis
Acacia flava forma chariensis is often propagated by sowing seeds or through vegetative propagation methods such as cuttings, layering, and grafting. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of propagation method will depend on different factors such as the availability of materials and the desired outcome.
Seed propagation
Propagation by seeds is relatively easy and inexpensive, making it a popular method for many gardeners. The seeds should be collected when they are mature to ensure they will germinate. Germination rates are usually high, and seeds can be sown directly in the substrate or started in pots and then transplanted.
Varieties
Propagation by cuttings is more appropriate for specific clones or cultivars since these can maintain genetic stability. Propagation by cuttings is advantageous when it comes to ensuring a more uniform and predictable outcome from the plants that are produced.
Layering
Propagation by layering is a technique where a branch is encouraged to form roots while still attached to the parent plant. It's a useful way to propagate acacias if you don't want to harm the parent plant. The advantage of layering is that it produces large, well-rooted plants that are an excellent size for transplanting to a new location.
Grafting
Grafting is a method that can be used to combine a desirable acacia cultivar with a hardy rootstock to produce a plant with increased hardiness and vigor. Grafted plants also typically grow more quickly and produce better flowers and fruits than seed-grown plants. However, grafting requires special skills and equipment.
Disease Management for Acacia flava forma chariensis
Acacia flava forma chariensis can be susceptible to various diseases. Here are some of the common diseases and ways to manage them:
Canker Disease
Canker disease is known to affect the stems of Acacia flava forma chariensis. It causes stem cankers that are characterized by sunken, discolored areas on the bark. The affected portions of the tree can eventually die. To manage canker disease, it's important to prune and dispose of the affected branches. You can use a fungicide on the pruning wounds to prevent further spread of the disease. Prune the infected branches during dry weather to avoid the spread of bacteria.
Rust Disease
Rust disease can cause yellow or orange growths to appear on the leaves of Acacia flava forma chariensis. This disease is caused by a fungus and can spread quickly if not managed. To manage rust disease, remove any infected leaves from the plant and dispose of them away from the area. You can also apply a fungicide to the plant, following the instructions on the label.
Pest Management for Acacia flava forma chariensis
Various pests can affect Acacia flava forma chariensis, which can cause a decline in plant health. Here are some of the common pests and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are common pests that can suck sap from the leaves and stems of Acacia flava forma chariensis. These pests produce a sticky substance called honeydew that can attract other insects, such as ants. To manage aphids, you can use insecticidal soap solutions or neem oil. You can also introduce beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, to feed on the aphids.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are arachnids that can damage the foliage of Acacia flava forma chariensis by piercing the leaves and sucking the sap. This can result in a reduction of plant vigor. To manage spider mites, use a miticide or spray the plant with water regularly to reduce their numbers.
Scale Insects
Scale insects can attach themselves to the leaves and branches of Acacia flava forma chariensis, using their piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on the sap. They can also produce honeydew, which can attract ants and other insects. To manage scale insects, remove them carefully from the leaves and branches. You can also apply horticultural oil to suffocate the insects.
