Overview
Albizia glaberrima (Schumach. & Thonn.) Benth. var. mpwapwensis Brenan, also known as the Mpwapwa albizia, is a tree species found in various parts of Tanzania. It has a variety of uses and is known for its ornamental value.
Origin and Distribution
The Albizia glaberrima var. mpwapwensis is native to Tanzania and occurs naturally in the eastern and southern parts of the country, particularly in the Mpwapwa district. It can also be found in other countries in Eastern Africa, such as Kenya and Uganda.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Mpwapwa albizia, named after the district where it is most prevalent. It is also referred to as the flat-crown albizia and the silky albizia due to the texture of its leaves.
Appearance
This tree species has a medium to large size and can grow up to 25 meters in height. It has a characteristic flat crown, hence the common name "flat-crown albizia." The leaves are bipinnate, with each leaflet having prominent veins. The tree produces white or cream-colored flowers that are arranged in spherical clusters. The fruit is a long, thin pod that contains seeds.
Uses
The Albizia glaberrima var. mpwapwensis has several uses. It is used for ornamentation due to its spectacular appearance. The tree's wood is also used for timber and carving, while the leaves and bark have medicinal properties. The leaves are used to make a herbal remedy for treating respiratory infections, fever, and digestive disorders. The bark can be used to relieve pain and inflammation in wounds, as well as in the treatment of various skin conditions.
Overall, the Albizia glaberrima var. mpwapwensis is an important species in Eastern Africa, with significant ecological, medicinal, and economic value.Light Requirements
Albizia glaberrima var. mpwapwensis Brenan prefers growing in areas with partial shade to full sun exposure. It can tolerate partial shade, but too much shade can result in poor growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species is generally adapted to tropical climates with warm temperatures. A temperature range of 20-35 degrees Celsius is optimal for growth and development. Temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius can severely hinder growth, while temperatures higher than 40 degrees Celsius can lead to water loss and stunted growth.
Soil Requirements
Albizia glaberrima var. mpwapwensis Brenan thrives in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It prefers loamy soils that are slightly acidic to neutral (pH of 6.0-7.0). Additionally, this plant species can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils. However, it does not grow well in waterlogged soils, which can cause root rot and ultimately lead to plant death.
Cultivation
Albizia glaberrima var. mpwapwensis is native to Africa, particularly in the tropical regions. It thrives in warm and humid conditions and can be cultivated in well-draining soils with a pH of 6.0-7.5.
The plant is propagated through seeds and is usually sown in a nursery bed. The seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent position when they are at least 15 cm tall.
Watering needs
Regular watering is essential for the proper growth and development of Albizia glaberrima var. mpwapwensis. The plant requires adequate moisture, especially during the hot and dry season.
It is important to ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to waterlogging, which can cause the roots to rot and eventually kill the plant.
Fertilization
Albizia glaberrima var. mpwapwensis benefits from regular fertilization to ensure healthy growth and development. The plant has high nutrient requirements and requires a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of N:P:K (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) of 2:1:1.
Fertilization should be done in the growing season, and the amount and frequency should be based on the plant's growth rate and the soil's fertility levels.
Pruning
Regular pruning is important for the overall health and aesthetic appeal of Albizia glaberrima var. mpwapwensis. The plant can become leggy and untidy if left unpruned.
Pruning is typically done during the dormant season to stimulate new growth in the spring. Dead, diseased, or damaged branches should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of disease or insect infestation.
The plant can be pruned to a specific size and shape to fit the desired space or purpose.
Propagation of Albizia glaberrima var. mpwapwensis
Albizia glaberrima var. mpwapwensis can be propagated by seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds should be collected from fully matured pods. Pods should be collected once they have dried, usually 2-3 months after flowering. Seeds should be extracted from the pods and dried for a few days in the shade. Plant the seeds in a well-draining soil mix in seed trays. Cover the trays with polythene to maintain a humid environment. Germination should occur within 2-4 weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Hardwood cuttings are best taken when the plant is dormant. Cuttings should be taken from healthy branches with a diameter of about 1 cm. The cuttings should be about 15-20 cm long and stripped of all leaves. The base of the cutting should be dipped in a hormone rooting powder and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The pot should be kept in a warm, bright area and watered regularly. Rooting should occur within 6-8 weeks and the young plants can be transplanted to larger pots or directly into the ground.
Disease management
Albizia glaberrima (Schumach. & Thonn.) Benth. var. mpwapwensis Brenan, also known as the African siris, can be susceptible to various diseases. One of the common diseases affecting Albizia glaberrima is leaf spot. Leaf spot disease is caused by the fungus Cercospora albizziae. Symptoms of the disease include small spots that are yellowish-gray to black in color on the leaves, and sometimes on the pods. To manage leaf spot, it is important to promptly remove and dispose of the affected leaves. Additionally, the use of fungicides can help to prevent the spread of the disease.
Another disease that can affect Albizia glaberrima is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is caused by the fungus Erysiphe pisi. Symptoms of the disease include a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to maintain proper air circulation around the plant, and to promptly remove and dispose of the affected plant parts. Additionally, the use of fungicides can help to control the spread of the disease.
Pest management
Albizia glaberrima can also be susceptible to certain pests. One of the common pests affecting the plant is the stem borer. The larvae of the stem borer feed on the internal tissues of the plant's stem, causing damage and weakening of the stem. To manage stem borers, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation, such as the presence of holes or sawdust-like material around the stem. Infested plant parts should be promptly removed and destroyed. Additionally, the use of insecticides can help to control the population of stem borers.
Another pest that can affect Albizia glaberrima is the aphid. Aphids are small sap-sucking insects that can cause distortion and yellowing of leaves, as well as stunted growth. To manage aphids, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation, such as the presence of large groups of aphids on the leaves or stems. Infested plant parts should be promptly removed and destroyed. Additionally, the use of insecticides or natural predators, such as ladybugs, can help to control the population of aphids.
