Overview
Albizia chevalieri is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is also called the Mimosa tree, Kwencal or Kwengkal in the local dialects of Angola. The tree is mostly found in Angola, Africa. Albizia chevalieri has many uses, including medicinal purposes and as a source of timber. In this article, we will describe the general appearance, origin, and uses of Albizia chevalieri.
Origin
Albizia chevalieri is native to Angola. It is mainly found in the provinces of Huambo, Bié, and Malanje. Although it is a native of Angola, this tree also grows in the neighboring countries of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia.
Common Names
Albizia chevalieri has several common names depending on the region. It is commonly known as the Mimosa tree, Kwencal or Kwengkal in the local dialects of Angola.
General Appearance
The Albizia chevalieri tree is a deciduous plant that can grow up to 20 meters in height. The bark of the tree is light brown and has a smooth texture. The leaves are compound, measuring 30–40 cm long, with 8–20 pinnate leaflets. The leaflets are oblong in shape, measuring about 5 cm long.
Albizia chevalieri produces creamy-yellow, sweet-scented flowers that are arranged in globular heads. The flowers are about 1 cm in size and have long stamens that protrude from the center. The fruit of the tree is a flat brown pod measuring up to 30 cm long and 5 cm wide. The pods contain several small seeds that have a distinctive wing-like structure, allowing them to be easily dispersed by the wind.
Uses
Albizia chevalieri has many uses, including medicinal purposes and as a source of timber. In traditional medicine, the bark and leaves of the tree are used to treat fever, headache, and dysentery.
The wood of the tree is strong and durable, making it ideal for construction and furniture making. It is also used to make charcoal and fuel wood. The tree has been planted in some areas for erosion control and reforestation.
In conclusion, Albizia chevalieri is a valuable plant that has many uses. Its medicinal properties and timber make it a valuable resource in Angola and other parts of Africa.
Light Requirements
Albizia chevalieri Harms grows well in bright to moderate light. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause stunted growth and leaf drop. Therefore, it is recommended to place the plant in a spot where it can receive direct or filtered sunlight for at least a few hours a day.
Temperature Requirements
Albizia chevalieri Harms prefers warm and humid conditions for optimal growth. It can thrive in temperatures ranging from 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it cannot tolerate frost or extremely low temperatures and should be protected from cold drafts.
Soil Requirements
Albizia chevalieri Harms prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH level of 5.5 to 6.5. It requires soil that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot. It is recommended to add organic matter such as peat moss, compost, or leaf mold to improve soil structure and nutrient content.
Planting and Cultivation
Albizia chevalieri Harms prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Choose a location with full to partial sun exposure for planting.
Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball. Place the plant in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the ground. Backfill with soil, pressing firmly around the base of the plant. Water thoroughly.
Watering Needs
Water newly planted Albizia chevalieri Harms regularly until the plant is established, typically for the first year. After that, the plant is moderately drought-tolerant and requires less watering but make sure the top inch of soil is moist throughout the growing season.
If there is insufficient rainfall, provide a deep watering once a week. Reduce watering the plant in winter to avoid root rot.
Fertilization
Albizia chevalieri Harms doesn't require fertilization but if you want to improve its growth, apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in the spring. Follow the package instructions for specific application rates.
Do not fertilize the plant in late summer as this can promote growth that doesn't have time to harden off before winter, which may lead to frost damage
Pruning
Albizia chevalieri Harms doesn't require frequent pruning, but you should remove dead, diseased, or damaged wood whenever it appears. You can also prune to shape the plant.
Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before the new growth commences. Pierce cutting or pollarding can be done in the first few years of growth to encourage a more bushy habit.
Propagation of Albizia Chevalieri Harms
Albizia chevalieri Harms is a medium-sized deciduous tree that grows up to 10 meters in height and is native to Cameroon, Africa. The propagation of this tree can be done through various methods, which are discussed below:
Seed Propagation
One of the easiest ways to propagate Albizia chevalieri Harms is through seeds. Collect the seeds when they are mature and dry, and then sow them immediately in well-drained soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and place the pot in a warm and shaded spot. The seeds germinate within two to three weeks and can be transplanted when they have developed a few leaves.
Cuttings Propagation
Another way to propagate Albizia chevalieri Harms is through cuttings. Select a woody stem that is about 6 inches long and remove all the leaves except the topmost pair. Dip the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in well-drained soil. Water the soil and cover the cutting with a plastic bag to retain moisture. Keep the pot in a bright but indirect sunlight spot, and the cutting will root within six to eight weeks.
Air Layering Propagation
A little bit more challenging but effective propagation method is layering. Choose a healthy stem and remove a ring of bark about 2 inches wide. Apply rooting hormone to the exposed area and wrap it with wet sphagnum moss. Cover the moss with plastic, and secure the ends with a rubber band. Keep the moss moist and wait for the roots to develop, usually in four to six months. Remove the layer from the mother plant and plant it in well-drained soil.
Overall, propagating Albizia chevalieri Harms is relatively easy, and growers can use different methods depending on their preferences and available resources.
Disease Management
Albizia chevalieri Harms is a relatively disease-resistant plant, but it can still fall victim to some diseases:
Leaf Spot
Leaves may develop brown or black spots that spread to cover the entire leaf. To manage the disease, pick off and destroy the affected leaves as soon as possible. You can also apply a fungicide suitable for Albizia chevalieri Harms.
Root Rot
This disease is caused by a fungal infection that leads to decay of the roots. It typically occurs in plants that are over-watered or planted in areas with poor drainage. To manage root rot, remove and destroy affected plants. Ensure that the soil does not remain too wet and add organic matter or sand to increase drainage.
Pest Management
Here are some common pests that may affect Albizia chevalieri Harms:
Spider Mites
These tiny pests may cluster on the undersides of leaves and suck the sap out of them, causing yellowing and shriveling. To manage spider mites, wash the leaves thoroughly with water. You can also apply an insecticidal soap that is safe for Albizia chevalieri Harms.
Scale Insects
They appear as small bumps on the stems and branches of the plant. Scale insects suck sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth and yellowing. To control scale insects, scrape them off with a small brush or cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Repeat the process until the infestation is under control.
