Overview
Albizia schimperiana Oliv. var. schimperiana is a fast-growing, deciduous tree that belongs to the Mimosa family (Fabaceae). This tree is native to East Africa and is commonly found in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania.
Common Names
Albizia schimperiana Oliv. var. schimperiana is commonly known as silk tree, flame tree, and African siris. In Ethiopia, it is locally known as "beshasha" in Amharic and "agamsa" in Oromiffa.
Appearance
The tree can reach up to 20 meters in height, with a spreading crown that is supported by a short trunk and a few large branches. The bark is smooth and greyish-brown, and the young branches are green. The leaves are pinnately compound, with numerous small leaflets that are lanceolate (6–10 cm long and 1.5–3 cm wide) and arranged in opposite pairs. The flowers are pink or crimson and are arranged in inflorescences that are 12–15 cm long. The fruit is a flat pod that reaches up to 15 cm in length and 2.5 cm in width.
Uses
The tree has various uses in traditional medicine. The bark, leaves, and roots are used to treat fever, malaria, diarrhea, and other ailments. In addition, it is used as a source of firewood and charcoal due to its fast growth rate and high calorific value. The tree is also planted as an ornamental tree due to its beautiful flowers and foliage. Furthermore, the leaves and pods of Albizia schimperiana Oliv. var. schimperiana are an important source of forage for livestock during the dry season.
Light Requirements
Albizia schimperiana Oliv. var. schimperiana grows best in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not flower as prolifically in areas with too much shade. Therefore, it's best to provide it with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is well adapted to tropical and subtropical climates. Optimal growth temperature range is between 20°C - 30°C (68°F - 86°F). Albizia schimperiana Oliv. var. schimperiana cannot tolerate frost, hence not suitable for cold climates.
Soil Requirements
Albizia schimperiana Oliv. var. schimperiana prefers well-draining soils that are rich in nutrients. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it does not do well in waterlogged soils as it can cause root rot and possible death. Soil pH can range between 6 - 8.
Cultivation Methods
Albizia schimperiana Oliv. var. schimperiana can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. To propagate from seeds, the seeds should be scarified and soaked in water for 48-72hrs before sowing in a well-draining potting mix. The potting mix should be kept moist to facilitate germination, which occurs within 2-4 weeks. For cuttings, they should be taken from semi-hardwood or hardwood in the fall or winter. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting in a well-draining potting mix. It should root within 4-6 weeks.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is critical for Albizia schimperiana Oliv. var. schimperiana. This plant prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering or underwatering can lead to root rot or other diseases. To ensure proper watering, check the top inch of soil and water when it feels dry to the touch. During periods of growth, it may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
Albizia schimperiana Oliv. var. schimperiana does not require heavy fertilization. A slow-release organic fertilizer applied in the spring and again in the fall will suffice. The fertilizer should be applied to the soil around the plant, not directly on its leaves. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive growth, which can weaken the plant and make it more prone to disease.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Albizia schimperiana Oliv. var. schimperiana. However, if the plant becomes too tall or leggy, it can be pruned back in the late winter or early spring. This plant is generally low-maintenance and does not require regular pruning.
Propagation of Albizia schimperiana Oliv. var. schimperiana
Albizia schimperiana Oliv. var. schimperiana can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods. The plant is commonly propagated using seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is the most common method used for Albizia schimperiana Oliv. var. schimperiana. The seeds are collected from fully matured pods that have turned brown. After collecting the seeds, they are directly sown in the prepared soil. The seeds should be sown in a well-drained soil and should be watered regularly after sowing. Germination usually occurs after 4-6 weeks of sowing. The young seedlings can be transplanted after they develop their second set of true leaves.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is another method used for Albizia schimperiana Oliv. var. schimperiana. The best time for taking cuttings is during the rainy season. The cuttings should be taken from healthy and disease-free plants. The cuttings should be about 20-25 cm long and should be taken from the previous year's growth. The lower part of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-drained soil mixture. The soil should be kept moist, and the cutting should be regularly monitored for any signs of disease or insects. Roots usually develop after 4-6 weeks, and the young plants can be transplanted after they have grown to a suitable size.
Disease Management
Albizia schimperiana Oliv. var. schimperiana is vulnerable to several diseases that cause health problems in the plant. These diseases include:
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that leads to leaf spot, yellowing, defoliation, and stunted growth. It can be managed by pruning infected parts and applying fungicidal sprays.
- Powdery mildew: This disease causes white patches on the leaves. It can be treated with a fungicide, pruning of infected parts, and reducing the humidity around the plant.
- Leaf rust: This fungal disease causes rusty-colored spots on the leaves. Prune infected parts and apply a fungicide to manage it.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by fungi that thrive in moist soils and leads to root decay, wilting, and yellowing of leaves. Remove infected plants and avoid waterlogging to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Besides diseases, Albizia schimperiana Oliv. var. schimperiana attracts several pests that can cause significant damage. These pests include:
- Mites: These small insects cause discoloration and yellowing of leaves. Use acaricides to control them.
- Caterpillars: These pests feed on the leaves and damage the plant. They can be controlled by manually removing them or applying insecticides.
- Scale insects: These insects suck sap from the plant, leading to wilting and yellowing of leaves. They can be managed by pruning infected parts and applying insecticides.
- Mealybugs: These insects feed on the plant's sap and secrete honeydew, leading to sooty mold growth. Control them by using insecticides and pruning infected parts.
Regular monitoring of the plant's health, proper pruning, and timely application of pesticides and fungicides can help manage the diseases and pests that affect Albizia schimperiana Oliv. var. schimperiana.
