Overview of Albizia gummifera (J.F.Gmel.) C.A.Sm. var. ealaensis (De Wild.) Brenan
Albizia gummifera (J.F.Gmel.) C.A.Sm. var. ealaensis (De Wild.) Brenan is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae and is commonly known as the African corkwood. It is native to tropical Africa, from Senegal to Sudan and Tanzania. The plant is widely distributed throughout the African humid lowland and occurs in a variety of habitats, including primary and secondary forests, savannas, and gallery forests.
Appearance of Albizia gummifera (J.F.Gmel.) C.A.Sm. var. ealaensis (De Wild.) Brenan
The African corkwood is a deciduous tree that grows up to 20 meters tall, with a trunk of up to 60 cm in diameter. The tree has a rounded crown of spreading branches and a smooth, grey or brownish-brown bark with conspicuous lenticels. The leaves are fern-like, being bipinnate and up to 25 cm long. The tree produces fragrant, globular flower heads, which are creamy-white or yellowish and appear in dense clusters at the end of the branches. The flowers are followed by thin, flattened seedpods that are up to 20 cm long and contain numerous seeds.
Uses of Albizia gummifera (J.F.Gmel.) C.A.Sm. var. ealaensis (De Wild.) Brenan
The African corkwood has various medicinal and cultural uses. The bark and roots contain tannins, gum, and other chemicals, which are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as dysentery and stomach disorders. The bark and seeds are also used for making soap, and the wood is used for building and carving.
The tree has spiritual significance in some African cultures and is believed to protect against evil spirits. Its wood is used for making masks and sculptures, which are used in traditional dances and ceremonies. The leaves and flowers are also used in ornamental and decorative purposes.
Growth Conditions for Albizia gummifera var. ealaensis
Albizia gummifera var. ealaensis is a plant species native to central and western Africa. It typically grows in tropical and sub-tropical regions and requires specific environmental conditions to thrive.
Light Requirements
The plant requires a lot of sunlight to grow properly. It can grow in areas that receive partial shade, but it will not grow well in areas that do not get direct sunlight. When grown indoors, it is essential to place the plant in a well-lit area with plenty of access to sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Albizia gummifera var. ealaensis is a type of tropical plant that requires warm temperatures to grow. Optimal temperatures for growth range between 20 - 30°C, and the plant will be affected by temperatures outside this range. It cannot tolerate frost, and temperatures below 10°C will cause significant damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires a well-draining soil with high organic matter content. It grows best in soil that has a pH range of 5.5 - 7.5, and it is best to avoid soils with low pH levels. The plant prefers soils that are moist but not water-logged, and it should be regularly watered. The potting soil should be enriched with fertilizer to ensure adequate nutrition for the plant.
Cultivation methods for Albizia gummifera (J.F.Gmel.) C.A.Sm. var. ealaensis (De Wild.) Brenan
The Albizia gummifera (J.F.Gmel.) C.A.Sm. var. ealaensis (De Wild.) Brenan, commonly known as the Eala Alabang tree, thrives in tropical and subtropical regions. It grows best in areas where the temperature ranges from 25 to 30°C, with a relative humidity of 60-80%. The tree requires well-draining soil and prefers locations that receive full sun or partial shade.
Watering Needs
Albizia gummifera requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. However, it is necessary to avoid overwatering, as it can harm the plant. It is best to keep the top two inches of soil moist but not waterlogged. During the dormant season, the plant requires less water to prevent root rot.
Fertilization
Albizia gummifera requires fertilization to enhance growth and development. Apply fertilizer during the growing season, starting in early spring and feeding every 4-6 weeks. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Alternatively, use a slow-release fertilizer to avoid overfeeding.
Pruning
Albizia gummifera requires occasional pruning to remove dead or diseased branches. Pruning should be carried out during the dormant season to reduce the risk of damaging the plant. Avoid pruning during periods of heavy rainfall or drought. Sanitize pruning shears with rubbing alcohol or bleach between cuts to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation methods of Albizia gummifera var. ealaensis
Albizia gummifera var. ealaensis can be propagated through several methods. These include:
Seed propagation
Seeds of Albizia gummifera var. ealaensis can be collected during the peak season and sowed in well-draining soil mix. The seeds require pretreatment through scarification or soaking in boiling water to break dormancy. Germination usually occurs within 2-3 weeks.
Cuttings propagation
Softwood cuttings of Albizia gummifera var. ealaensis taken during the growing season can be rooted in well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and kept in a moist environment under high humidity until roots develop.
Air layering propagation
Albizia gummifera var. ealaensis can also be propagated through air layering. This method involves making a small cut in a stem of the plant and wrapping it in moist sphagnum moss. Roots will develop at the cut section and the rooted plant can be removed and planted separately.
Disease and Pest Management for Albizia gummifera var. ealaensis
Albizia gummifera var. ealaensis is a plant species that is vulnerable to various pests and diseases. Proper disease and pest management techniques are crucial in preventing their attacks and ensuring plant health.
Common Pest Infestations
1. Chewing Insects: Beetles, caterpillars, and grasshoppers are common pests that chew on the leaves, stem, or flowers of Albizia gummifera var. ealaensis. These can be managed by handpicking, applying insecticide, or introducing natural predators such as birds and beneficial insects.
2. Sucking Insects: Aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites are major sap-sucking pests known to affect the plant. They cause stunted and distorted growth that can lead to the death of the plant. Introducing natural predators or regular application of insecticides can help control these pests.
3. Termites: These pests cause extensive damage to the root system of the plant, leading to stunted growth. Regular inspection and application of termiticide around the plant's base can help prevent infestations.
Common Diseases
1. Fungal Diseases: Albizia gummifera var. ealaensis is prone to fungal diseases such as rust, powdery mildew, and anthracnose. These diseases can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering, providing good air circulation, and application of fungicides.
2. Bacterial Diseases: Crown gall and bacterial wilt are common bacterial diseases known to affect the plant. These can cause the death of the plant or severe damage if left uncontrolled. The application of bactericides or removal of infected plants can help prevent further spread of the disease.
3. Viral Diseases: Leaf mosaic, leaf curl, and yellowing are viral diseases known to affect the plant. These diseases weaken the plant, making it more vulnerable to pests and other diseases. There is no known cure for viral diseases, and the infected plant should be removed to prevent further spread.
Overall, proper plant management practices such as good sanitation, proper watering, regular pruning, and fertilization can help prevent pest and disease infestations. Early detection and identification of any pest or disease symptoms are crucial in preventing further spread and effectively addressing the issue.
