Origin and Common Names
Albizia adianthifolia (Schumach.) W.F.Wight × A. gummifera (J.F.Gmel.) C.A.Sm. ex Hell. is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is commonly known as the Flat Crown, African Myrrh, and Okpeye in Nigeria. This plant is mainly found in tropical and subtropical regions, especially in West and Central Africa, where it grows in the wild.
Appearance
The Albizia adianthifolia x gummifera plant is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 20 meters tall. It has a flat crown and a broad spreading canopy that provides shade. The trunk is usually straight, sometimes with fluting to a height of up to 5 meters, and can be up to 1 meter in diameter. The bark is grey and rough, with deep longitudinal furrows and scattered lenticels.
The leaves are bi-pinnate and measure up to 40 cm long and 15 cm wide. They are greenish-blue and have a feathery appearance. The flowers are small and pale yellow, and they are held in round-headed clusters that measure up to 20 cm in diameter. The fruit is a flat pod that is long and wide, containing seeds that have a sweet fragrance.
Uses
The Albizia adianthifolia x gummifera plant has different uses. The bark and stems are rich in tannin, which is used in the production of leather. The wood is also used for making furniture, tool handles, and musical instruments because it is strong and durable. Additionally, the leaves are used as fodder for livestock, and the seed pods are used in traditional medicine to treat coughs, bronchitis, and other respiratory disorders. The seeds are also roasted and used as a substitute for coffee.
Moreover, the plant has several cultural and spiritual uses. In some parts of Africa, the wood and bark are used as incense, and the tree is considered sacred. It is also planted as a shade tree and for landscaping in parks and gardens.
Growth Conditions for Albizia adianthifolia x A. gummifera
Albizia adianthifolia x A. gummifera is a fast-growing hybrid plant that is native to tropical regions of Africa. To ensure optimal growth and development, the plant requires specific conditions concerning light, temperature, and soil.
Light Requirements
The plant thrives in partial to full sunlight. It is crucial to ensure the plant is receiving enough light, especially during its early developmental stages. The plant benefits from direct sunlight exposure for at least 6 hours per day. Lack of adequate light exposure results in stunted growth and reduced foliage. Additionally, it is recommendable to provide the plant with a shelter that shields it from strong winds and other harsh conditions. The shelter preserves its foliage from damage and supports proper growth.
Temperature Requirements
The hybrid plant thrives in warm temperatures typical of tropical regions. Average temperatures of 25°C to 30°C are ideal for the plant's overall development. Excessive cold or high temperatures slow down its growth, and extreme conditions may cause death. Therefore, it is crucial for growers to maintain optimal temperatures that keep the plant within the recommended temperature range.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-drained, loamy and sandy soils that are rich in organic matter for optimal growth. The soil should have a pH of between 6.0 and 7.5, which is neither too acidic nor too alkaline. Soil that is too acidic may cause yellowing of leaves, whereas alkaline soil results in inhibited nutrient uptake. Frequent soil testing ensures that the soil is balanced with required nutrients for the plant. Waterlogging must be avoided since it inhibits growth and may rott the plant's roots.
Finally, it is crucial to monitor the plant regularly for any signs of pests and diseases. Early identification and management of pests and diseases decrease the risk of plant damage.
Cultivation Methods
The Albizia adianthifolia (Schumach.) W.F.Wight x A. gummifera (J.F.Gmel.) C.A.Sm. ex Hell. species grows best in high humidity tropical or subtropical regions. It thrives in well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. The plant grows well in direct sunlight or partial shade and requires constant supervision to control the fast-growing branches from becoming too large and unkempt.
Watering Needs
The Albizia adianthifolia (Schumach.) W.F.Wight x A. gummifera (J.F.Gmel.) C.A.Sm. ex Hell. plant requires regular watering to thrive, especially during the dry season. The soil should not be allowed to dry, and it is essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. At the same time, waterlogging should be avoided as it can cause root rot and lead to plant death.
Fertilization
It is essential to fertilize the Albizia adianthifolia (Schumach.) W.F.Wight x A. gummifera (J.F.Gmel.) C.A.Sm. ex Hell. plant regularly to help maintain its health and promote healthy growth. A balanced fertilizer is ideal for this species and should be applied during the growing season (spring and summer). Feeding the plant with organic matter such as compost or manure is also recommended as they provide vital nutrients to the soil.
Pruning
Regular pruning is necessary to keep the Albizia adianthifolia (Schumach.) W.F.Wight x A. gummifera (J.F.Gmel.) C.A.Sm. ex Hell. plant in shape, encourage branching, and control its size. Pruning should be done during the dormant season to avoid damage to the plant. Dead or damaged branches should be removed, and any diseased or pest infested parts must be destroyed immediately. It is also crucial to prune the plant to control its size and maintain the desired shape.
Propagation of Albizia adianthifolia x A. gummifera
Albizia adianthifolia x A. gummifera, commonly known as the "Flat Top Tree," can be propagated by various methods such as seed, cuttings and grafting.
Propagation by Seed
The most common method of propagating Albizia adianthifolia x A. gummifera is through seed. The seeds of the plants can be collected from the pods that develop after flowering. The seeds should be cleaned and dried in the shade for a few days before sowing. They can be sown in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist until they germinate. Once the seedlings grow a few leaves, they can be transplanted to bigger pots or directly to the ground.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation of Albizia adianthifolia x A. gummifera can also be done using stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from mature trees during the dormant season. They should be about 15-20 cm long, with at least two nodes. The bottom node should be stripped of leaves and dipped in rooting hormone. The cutting can be planted in a well-aerated rooting medium, such as sand or vermiculite, and kept moist until roots develop. Once the roots form, the cutting can be transplanted to the desired location.
Propagation by Grafting
Grafting is a more advanced method of propagating Albizia adianthifolia x A. gummifera. It involves joining a cutting or scion from a desired tree to a rootstock of another tree. This method is useful when you want to maintain a specific characteristic of a particular tree. Grafting can be done during the dormant season, and the scion should be at least 15 cm long with two to three buds. The rootstock should be young and healthy. The two parts can be joined using a grafting knife and secured with grafting tape until they unite. The newly grafted plant should be kept in a cool, shady place until it starts growing.
Disease Management for Albizia adianthifolia x A. gummifera
Albizia adianthifolia x A. gummifera is a beautiful and resilient plant, but it is prone to damage from various diseases. Some of the common plant diseases that might infect the Albizia adianthifolia x A. gummifera include:
- Rust Diseases: Rust diseases include fungi that attack different parts of the plant, including the leaves, stems, and flowers. Signs of rust infection include yellow spots, and eventually, red/brown rust-like growths. To manage rust infection, make sure to prevent overcrowding of the plant and remove any infected leaves.
- Leaf Spot Diseases: Leaf spot diseases are caused by fungi and bacteria. They are characterized by the development of small brown or black spots on the leaves. The affected leaves eventually fall off, leading to defoliation. To manage leaf spot diseases, make sure to remove infected leaves, maintain proper spacing of the plants, and avoid over-watering.
- Canker: Cankers are fungal infections that damage the bark, branches, and stems of the plant. Infected areas of the plant become sunken and discolored. To manage this disease, clean pruning tools before and after use, trim off infected branches and stems at least six inches below the infected area, and apply fungicides.
Pest Management for Albizia adianthifolia x A. gummifera
Like most plants, Albizia adianthifolia x A. gummifera is susceptible to various pests. Some of the most common pests that might affect the plant include:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that cause curled and yellow leaves and stunted plant growth. To manage aphids, clean plants regularly, prune and destroy infested leaves and stems, and use insecticidal soaps.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that cause leaf discoloration, webbing on leaves, and eventual leaf drop. To manage spider mites, mist the plant regularly, prune and destroy infested leaves and stems, and apply insecticidal soaps.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, and waxy insects that attach themselves to leaves and stems to suck sap, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage mealybugs, prune and destroy infested leaves and stems, apply insecticidal soaps, and increase air circulation around the plant.
Implementing good cultural practices, such as regular cleaning of the plants, pruning, and proper spacing, helps in maintaining healthy plants and reduces the chances of infection and pest infestation.
