Overview of Albizia intermedia De Wild. & T.Durand
Albizia intermedia De Wild. & T.Durand, commonly known as African siris, is a medium-sized deciduous tree that belongs to the Leguminosae family. This plant originates from Central Africa, where it grows in various habitats, such as gallery forests, river banks, and wooded savannahs.
General appearance
The African siris tree can grow up to 25 meters tall, with a straight trunk that can have a diameter of up to 60 cm. The bark is dark brown and rough, with shallow fissures and irregular ridges. The leaves are alternate, bipinnately compound, and measure 8-20 cm long. The leaflets are oblong to elliptic and measure 1-4 cm long by 0.2-2 cm wide. The inflorescences are axillary or terminal, and the flowers are white and fragrant.
Common names
Aside from its scientific name, Albizia intermedia De Wild. & T.Durand has other common names, such as African siris, forest siris, moribund tree, mbuyu, and mupalo.
Uses
The African siris tree has various uses in traditional medicine, such as treating dysentery, toothache, and stomach ailments. The bark is also used as a source of fiber for making ropes and used as a dye for textiles. In some areas, the wood is used for making furniture, tools, and carvings. The tree also has cultural significance in some communities, where it is used in traditional rituals and ceremonies.
Growth Conditions for Albizia intermedia De Wild. & T.Durand
Albizia intermedia, also known as the African albizia, is native to West and Central Africa. It is a relatively fast-growing plant that can reach a height of up to 20 meters.
Light Requirements
Albizia intermedia prefers partial shade to full sun. It will tolerate some shade, but too much shade will result in slow growth and decreased flowering.
Temperature
Albizia intermedia is a tropical and sub-tropical plant that thrives in warm temperatures. It will not tolerate temperatures below 10°C and prefers temperatures between 20-30°C.
Soil Requirements
Albizia intermedia grows best in well-draining soils that have a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It will not do well in heavy clay soils or highly alkaline soils. Adding organic matter to the soil can help improve soil fertility and drainage.
Overall, providing Albizia intermedia with the correct light and temperature conditions, as well as the proper soil requirements, will result in healthy growth and abundant flowering.
Cultivation methods
Albizia intermedia De Wild. & T.Durand is a tropical plant that thrives in full sunlight, high humidity, and well-draining soils. The plant is propagated through seeds or stem cuttings.
The ideal temperature range for cultivation is between 21-30°C (70-86°F), and the plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil pH levels ranging from 6.0 to 7.5.
When planting, it is recommended to avoid waterlogged soil and to plant the seeds/cuttings at a depth of approximately 2-3 cm (0.8-1.2 inches) in the soil.
Watering needs
For optimal growth, Albizia intermedia De Wild. & T.Durand requires moist soil; therefore, regular watering is necessary. However, overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot, which can cause plant death.
Watering should be done once a week, and the soil should be allowed to dry out mildly between watering sessions. The plant should not be left in drought-like conditions as this can hinder its growth.
Fertilization
Fertilizers help to enhance plant growth and productivity. Albizia intermedia De Wild. & T.Durand should be fertilized seasonally, depending on the growth stage. A balanced fertilizer with a ratio of NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) of 6:6:6 or 10:10:10 is suitable for this plant.
The fertilizer should be applied during the growing season, i.e. between spring and summer, to provide the plant with essential nutrients required for optimal growth. Over-fertilization should be avoided as it can cause salt buildup, which can harm the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape and size of Albizia intermedia De Wild. & T.Durand. Pruning should be done during the dormant period, i.e. in late winter or early spring before the plant starts growing new foliage.
The plant can be pruned to remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches. It is advisable to use appropriate pruning shears to prevent stem damage. It is also essential to sterilize the pruning shears with alcohol before use to avoid spreading any diseases.
Propagation of Albizia intermedia De Wild. & T.Durand
Albizia intermedia De Wild. & T.Durand propagates mainly through seeds.
The seeds of Albizia intermedia De Wild. & T.Durand can be collected from pods that mature during the dry season. To ensure successful germination, the seeds should be collected when they are mature but have not yet fallen off the pods. The seeds should be cleaned, dried, and stored in a cool and dry place until planting time.
Before sowing the seeds, they should be soaked in boiling water for a few seconds and then allowed to cool. This process is known as scarification, and it helps to break down the hard seed coat, allowing water and air to penetrate the seed more easily.
Once the seeds are scarified, they can be sown in a germination tray or directly into the ground. If sowing in a germination tray, use a well-draining soil mix and cover the seeds lightly with soil. Keep the soil moist, but not too wet, and place the tray in a warm and well-lit area. The seeds should germinate within two to three weeks.
If sowing directly into the ground, choose a well-draining location with plenty of sunlight. The soil should be prepared by loosening it and removing any weeds. Carefully sow the seeds and cover lightly with soil. Keep the soil moist until germination occurs.
Albizia intermedia De Wild. & T.Durand cuttings can also be used for propagation, but it is not a common method since the plant is not known to produce roots easily from cutting.
Disease Management
Like most plants, Albizia intermedia is susceptible to various diseases. However, the most common diseases that affect it are:
- Wilt disease: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. The first sign of wilt disease is the yellowing of leaves, followed by wilting and eventually death of the plant. To manage this disease, ensure proper drainage, avoid overwatering and planting the tree in well-drained soils.
- Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that forms spots on the leaves. The spots are usually yellow or brown and may cause defoliation of the tree. To manage this disease, prune any affected leaves or branches and apply fungicides.
Pest Management
Albizia intermedia is also prone to pest infestations, which can reduce its growth and productivity. The common pests that attack this tree include:
- Spider mites: These are tiny pests that suck the sap from leaves, causing leaves to dry up and turn brown. To manage spider mites, apply pesticidal soaps or neem oil to the affected area.
- Thrips: These are small, slender insects that can cause leaves to curl and distort. To manage thrips, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Caterpillars: These are the larvae of certain moths, which feed on leaves and cause defoliation. To manage caterpillars, handpick and destroy them or use insecticides.
Regular inspection and prompt management of pests and diseases are essential to maintaining a healthy and productive Albizia intermedia tree.
