Origin
Albizia gillardinii G.C.C.Gilbert & Boutique, commonly known as Faux-Samanguili, is a tree species that is native to Madagascar. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and is part of the Albizia genus, which consists of over 100 species of trees and shrubs.
Common Names
The Albizia gillardinii has several names it is known by, depending on the region. The most common names include Faux-Samanguili, Tsalanala, and Tsiranala.
Uses
The Albizia gillardinii has different uses based on the region in Madagascar where it is found. The tree's bark and leaves have been used traditionally to treat various ailments such as fever, dysentery, and stomach disorders. It is also said to have anti-microbial properties that help to fight infections.
The wood from the Albizia gillardinii is used to make construction materials such as posts and even furniture. It is quite durable and resistant to termite damage.
General Appearance
The Albizia gillardinii is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 12 meters tall. It has a straight trunk that can reach up to 40 cm in diameter, with a grayish-brown bark that is rough and fissured.
The leaves are bipinnate, with up to 16 pairs of pinnae, each bearing several pairs of leaflets. The leaflets are small, oval-shaped, and have a smooth texture. They are greenish-blue in color and give the tree an attractive appearance.
The Albizia gillardinii produces tiny, fragrant pinkish-white flowers in clusters that are around 5 cm long. The flowers are hermaphroditic, which means that they contain both male and female reproductive organs. After flowering, the tree produces pods that are brown and flattened and contain several seeds.
Growth Conditions for Albizia gillardinii G.C.C.Gilbert & Boutique
Light: Albizia gillardinii is a tropical plant that requires full to partial sunlight for healthy growth. It is adapted to grow under bright light, and it is recommended to expose it to 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. If grown indoors, the plant should be placed near a window that receives a good amount of sunlight.
Temperature: The ideal temperature for the growth of Albizia gillardinii is around 20-30°C (68-86°F). This plant cannot survive in temperatures below 10°C (50°F) or above 40°C (104°F). During the winter season, the plant should be protected from cold temperatures to prevent damage.
Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand can work well for Albizia gillardinii. The soil should not be too dry or too wet, as both conditions can be detrimental to the plant's growth. The pH of the soil should be between 5.5 to 6.5, which is slightly acidic.
Water: The plant requires regular watering to thrive. The soil should be kept consistently moist, but not soggy. Watering should be reduced during winter, as the growth of the plant slows down during this period.
Fertilizer: Albizia gillardinii requires regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer to support its growth. Fertilizer should be applied during the growing season, which is spring and summer. It is recommended to use a slow-release fertilizer for better results. Over-fertilization can cause the plant to become leggy and weak.
Humidity: A humid environment is beneficial for the growth of Albizia gillardinii. It is advisable to place a humidifier near the plant or mist the leaves regularly. Low humidity can cause leaf drop and hinder the plant's growth.
By providing these growth conditions, you can help to ensure the optimal health and growth of Albizia gillardinii.
Cultivation of Albizia gillardinii
Albizia gillardinii is a fast-growing, deciduous tree that is native to Africa. It can be grown in full sun or partial shade and can tolerate different soil types as long as they are well-draining. The tree is hardy and can tolerate drought conditions, making it a suitable tree for arid and semi-arid areas.
The best time to plant Albizia gillardinii is during the rainy season when the soil is moist. The plant can be grown from either seeds or cuttings, and it is advised to apply rooting hormones to improve the chance of success with cuttings.
Watering Needs
Watering should be done regularly when the tree is still young, about twice a week, to encourage growth and root establishment. Once the tree has matured, regular watering may not be necessary as the tree can tolerate drought conditions. However, it is essential to water the tree during prolonged dry spells to keep it healthy and prevent wilting.
Fertilization
Albizia gillardinii is a moderate feeder, and fertilization can be done once a year during the growing season. Organic fertilizers such as compost, well-rotted manure, and bone meal are suitable for the tree. Application of fertilizers should be done around the base of the tree and watered in well to ensure proper absorption.
Pruning
Pruning of Albizia gillardinii can be done to shape the tree and keep it healthy. The best time to prune the tree is during the dormant season, either in late winter or early spring. Dead or diseased branches should be removed, and the pruning should be done in such a way that the tree's natural shape is maintained. Regular pruning will also encourage the growth of new branches resulting in a fuller tree.
Propagation of Albizia gillardinii
Albizia gillardinii is commonly propagated through both seed and vegetative methods.
Seed propagation
The seeds of Albizia gillardinii are collected from the tree when mature and undergo pre-sowing treatments to improve germination rates. The pre-sowing treatments may involve scarification or soaking in hot water to weaken the hard coating that surrounds the seed or boiling the seed in water for a few minutes to break dormancy. Once the seeds have been subjected to the pre-sowing treatments, they are sown in well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist, and the seeds should be kept in a warm and light environment until they germinate, which takes between 2-6 weeks.
Vegetative propagation
Albizia gillardinii can also be propagated vegetatively using cuttings. The cuttings used are referred to as hardwood cuttings, and they are taken during the winter months when the perennial tree is dormant. The cuttings should be from healthy plants with a diameter of approximately 20mm and a length of about 20cm. The cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil, watered frequently, and shaded from direct sunlight until they root, which can take between 1-3 months.
Another vegetative propagation method of Albizia gillardinii involves air layering. This involves stripping a portion of bark away from a selected branch, applying a rooting hormone to the exposed area, and covering the wounded area with sphagnum moss and a plastic wrap. After roots have formed, the new plant is separated from the parent plant and transplanted to a well-prepared site.
Regardless of the propagated method used, Albizia gillardinii is a fast-growing plant that does well in well-prepared sites with the right soil conditions, sun exposure, and watering regimes.
Disease and Pest Management for Albizia gillardinii G.C.C.Gilbert & Boutique
Albizia gillardinii G.C.C.Gilbert & Boutique, commonly known as silk tree, Persian silk tree, or pink siris, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the family Fabaceae. Although it is a relatively pest- and disease-resistant species, it can still be affected by various issues. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Leaf spot diseases: Albizia gillardinii can be affected by leaf spot diseases caused by fungi, such as Cercospora spp. and Phyllachora spp. These diseases manifest as circular or irregular brown spots on the leaves, which can eventually lead to defoliation.
To manage leaf spot diseases, you can spray the affected tree with a fungicide containing copper or neem oil. Additionally, it is recommended to water the plants in the morning to avoid prolonged leaf wetness.
Root rot: Another fungal disease that might affect Albizia gillardinii is root rot. This disease is caused by various soil-borne fungi that attack the roots and lead to yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth of the plant.
The best way to manage root rot is by preventing it from happening in the first place. This can be done by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering. If the disease has already infected the plant, it is best to remove the affected parts and apply a fungicide to the remaining parts.
Pests
Scales: Albizia gillardinii can be affected by various scales, including soft scales and cottony cushion scales. These insects suck the sap from the plant, leading to the yellowing and dropping of leaves.
To manage scales, you can use a horticultural oil spray or insecticidal soap spray to kill the insects. It is also recommended to prune any heavily infested parts of the plant and dispose of them properly.
Spider mites: These tiny pests are common on Albizia gillardinii, especially during hot and dry weather. Spider mites feed on the plant by piercing the leaves and sucking out the sap, leading to the formation of yellow or brown spots on the leaves.
One way to manage spider mites is by spraying the plant with water to increase the humidity levels. You can also use insecticidal soap sprays or miticides to kill the pests.
In conclusion, despite being relatively pest- and disease-resistant, Albizia gillardinii can still be affected by various issues. By following the management practices discussed above, you can ensure the health and vitality of your plants.
