Description of Albizia tanganyicensis Baker f. subsp. tanganyicensis
Albizia tanganyicensis Baker f. subsp. tanganyicensis is a medium-sized deciduous tree belonging to the family Fabaceae. It is commonly known as the Forest False-thorn or the Red Monkey Thorn tree and is native to tropical Africa, particularly Tanzania where it was first discovered and named after.
General Appearance
The Albizia tanganyicensis Baker f. subsp. tanganyicensis is a slow-growing tree that reaches a height of 10-12 meters when fully matured. It has a round, spreading crown and a smooth, gray-brown bark that becomes rough and deeply fissured as it ages. The tree's distinctive feature is its straight, sharp, and reddish-brown thorns that grow to about 7cm long.
The leaves of the Albizia tanganyicensis Baker f. subsp. tanganyicensis are compound, with pinnate leaflets that are ovate to elliptic. The leaflets have an alternate arrangement and are around 3-5cm long. The tree's flowers grow in clusters and are small and white. The fruit is a flat pod that is around 10-15cm long and 3-5cm wide.
Uses of Albizia tanganyicensis Baker f. subsp. tanganyicensis
The Albizia tanganyicensis Baker f. subsp. tanganyicensis is a valuable tree that has several uses. Its thorny branches are used as fences, and its bark is used for making ropes and baskets. The tree is also used for its medicinal value, as it contains alkaloids that are effective in treating coughs, fever, and malaria. Additionally, its pods are used as fodder for livestock, and its timber is used for making furniture and construction.
Albizia tanganyicensis Baker f. subsp. tanganyicensis is a hardy and useful tree that contributes significantly to the economy of Tanzania. Its thorny branches not only provide excellent natural fencing, but its medicinal and lumber value also make it an important resource in the region.
Light Conditions
The Albizia tanganyicensis Baker f. subsp. tanganyicensis thrives under full sun exposure. However, it can also tolerate partial shading, provided it receives a few hours of direct sunlight each day. It is important to note that insufficient light will lead to stunted growth and poor flower-bearing tendencies.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in tropical and subtropical climates with temperatures ranging from 15 to 28 degrees Celsius. It cannot tolerate cold temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius, although it can withstand brief temperatures of 5 degrees Celsius. Any exposure to frost can lead to the death of the plant.
Soil Requirements
The Albizia tanganyicensis Baker f. subsp. tanganyicensis thrives in well-drained soils that are not waterlogged. It is best to plant the tree in slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH level of between 5.5 and 7.5. The plant can survive in a range of soil types, from sandy loams to clay soils. However, it prefers soils that are rich in organic matter and nutrients. It is important to maintain good soil moisture levels for optimal growth.
Cultivation Methods
Albizia tanganyicensis Baker f. subsp. tanganyicensis is best cultivated from seeds or cuttings. If you are starting from seeds, be sure to scarify them before planting them. After planting, keep them in warm, moist soil until they have grown to about 15 cm in height. Alternatively, you can take cuttings during the summer and root them in a rooting hormone, then plant the cuttings in soil in autumn.
Watering Needs
Albizia tanganyicensis requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. The soil should be kept consistently moist, but be careful not to overwater as this could lead to root rot. Watering once or twice a week should suffice, but make sure to adjust the frequency depending on the weather conditions.
Fertilization
Although Albizia tanganyicensis does not require frequent fertilization, it benefits from an annual application of a slow-release fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer during the growing season and make sure to follow the package instructions carefully. Additionally, the plant can benefit from the addition of organic matter to the soil.
Pruning
Regular pruning encourages bushy growth and helps to maintain the plant's shape and size. Albizia tanganyicensis should be pruned during the winter dormant season, before new growth emerges in the spring. Remove any dead or damaged wood, suckers, and any crossing branches. Be careful not to remove too much foliage, as this could stress the plant.
Propagation of Albizia tanganyicensis Baker f. subsp. tanganyicensis
Albizia tanganyicensis Baker f. subsp. tanganyicensis can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods.
Propagation through seeds
The plant's seeds can be collected from the pods that mature and dry up on the tree. The pods can be left to dry on the tree, and then collected. The seeds should be separated from the pods and should be stored in a cool, dry place to maintain their viability. Before sowing, the seed coat may need to be scarified, and the seeds soaked for 24 hours to aid in their germination. Subsequently, the seeds should be planted in trays or pots filled with well-drained soil. Germination can take up to 2 weeks and should be watered regularly after sowing.
Propagation through cuttings
Albizia tanganyicensis Baker f. subsp. tanganyicensis can also be propagated asexually through cutting. Softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings from the parent plant can be used for propagation. The cutting should be 10-15 cm in length and cut below the node, with the lower leaves removed. The cutting should then be planted into well-draining soil, and misted regularly to maintain humidity levels, for about 2-3 weeks. Once rooted, the cutting can be transplanted into a larger pot or into the ground.
Disease Management
Albizia tanganyicensis Baker f. subsp. tanganyicensis is generally resistant to most diseases. However, in certain conditions, the plant may be susceptible to some diseases. Some common diseases that may affect this plant include:
- Leaf spot: This disease is caused by fungal pathogens and is characterized by the appearance of dark circular spots on the leaves of the plant. It can be managed by removing infected leaves and reducing humidity levels around the plant.
- Canker: Canker is caused by fungal pathogens and is characterized by the appearance of sunken, discolored, or dying areas on the bark of the plant. Infected branches should be pruned as soon as possible, and the pruning tools should be sanitized to avoid spreading the disease to other parts of the plant.
- Root rot: Root rot is caused by fungal pathogens that attack the roots of the plant, leading to reduced growth and eventual death. Avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage to prevent this disease from affecting the plant.
Pest Management
Albizia tanganyicensis Baker f. subsp. tanganyicensis can be affected by various pests. Some common pests that may affect this plant include:
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause foliage to appear yellow or brown. They can be controlled by using neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars can cause widespread damage to the leaves of the plant. Handpicking caterpillars and using insecticides are effective methods of controlling them.
- Scale insects: Scale insects are small pests that attach themselves to the plant and feed on its sap, causing wilting and yellowing. They can be controlled using insecticides or by manually removing them with a cotton swab soaked in alcohol.
Regularly monitoring the plant and maintaining good gardening practices such as proper watering and fertilization can help keep Albizia tanganyicensis Baker f. subsp. tanganyicensis healthy and resistant to pests and diseases.
