Overview
Bakerisideroxylon revolutum (Baker) Engl. is a type of tree that belongs to the family of Guibourtia. It is a hardwood that is native to tropical Africa, and can be found in countries such as Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, and Nigeria. The plant is also known by several other common names, including bokonge, ovang, orzas, and iboga.
Appearance
The Bakerisideroxylon revolutum is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to 30 meters tall. It has a thick trunk that is covered in a smooth, grayish bark that is hard to peel. The tree has pinnate leaves that can be up to 20 centimeters in length. The leaves are shiny and green in color, with a slightly wavy margin. The flowers are small, yellowish-white, and have a pleasant fragrance. The fruit of the plant is a woody pod that is filled with seeds.
Uses
The Bakerisideroxylon revolutum is highly valued for its timber, which is very durable and resistant to insects, rot, and moisture. It is commonly used in the construction of houses, boats, furniture, and flooring. The bark of the tree is also sometimes used to make a medicinal tea that is known to improve digestion and relieve fever. In some African cultures, the plant is also considered to have spiritual and ceremonial significance, and is used in certain rituals and practices.
Growth Conditions of Bakerisideroxylon revolutum (Baker) Engl.
Bakerisideroxylon revolutum (Baker) Engl. is a tropical tree species commonly found in moist and humid environments. The growth conditions required by this plant species are as follows:
Light Requirements
The Bakerisideroxylon revolutum (Baker) Engl. plant species requires partial shade to full sun conditions for optimal growth. The plant can tolerate bright sunlight but may require shade during the hottest parts of the day. However, insufficient light can impede the growth of the plant and cause stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements
The Bakerisideroxylon revolutum (Baker) Engl. species requires warm tropical and subtropical temperatures for optimal growth. The plant can tolerate temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, but temperatures above 35°C may cause damage to the plant. This tree species can tolerate temperatures as low as 15°C, but it does not fare well in frost or freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The Bakerisideroxylon revolutum (Baker) Engl. plant species prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil pH should range from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5 being optimal. This tree species prefers soils that are moist but not waterlogged. The plant can tolerate short periods of drought but may require irrigation during extended dry periods.
Cultivation of Bakerisideroxylon revolutum
Bakerisideroxylon revolutum is a tree species that is endemic to Africa and is highly valued for its timber. The tree species can grow up to 30 meters tall and is often grown in plantations for commercial purposes. To cultivate Bakerisideroxylon revolutum successfully, here are some important tips:
Watering Needs
During the first two years of growth, Bakerisideroxylon revolutum requires regular watering. Water the tree at least once a week, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Once the tree is established, it can tolerate dry conditions and irregular watering. However, during prolonged dry periods, it's essential to water the tree to prevent wilting and growth stunting.
Fertilization
For Bakerisideroxylon revolutum to grow optimally, it requires soil that is rich in nutrients. Apply fertilizers that have balanced nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content to enhance the growth of the tree. Generally, the tree species requires fertilizer application twice a year. Fertilizer application should be done after pruning when the tree is entering its growth phases, typically in spring and summer.
Pruning
Pruning helps to shape the tree and remove dead and damaged branches. It also promotes flowering and fruiting. Bakerisideroxylon revolutum should be pruned when it's dormant in winter to minimize sap loss. Young trees benefit from for formative pruning, which helps to establish a well-structured tree. Additionally, remove any branches that grow below the graft union to prevent major defects.
Propagation of Bakerisideroxylon revolutum
Bakerisideroxylon revolutum (Baker) Engl. is a tree that belongs to the family Sapotaceae. This plant is commonly propagated by seed or vegetative propagation methods such as cuttings or layering.
Propagation by Seed
Bakerisideroxylon revolutum can be propagated by seed. The seeds are collected from the mature fruits and are sown in a well-draining medium. The soil should be kept moist, and the seeds should be kept in a warm and humid environment until they germinate. The germination time varies from two weeks to two months.
Propagation by Cuttings
Bakerisideroxylon revolutum can also be propagated by cuttings. The cuttings are taken from the young, healthy stems of the plant. The stem is cut into 10-15 cm long pieces and treated with a rooting hormone. The cuttings are then planted in a well-draining medium and kept moist. The cuttings will develop roots within a few weeks to a few months.
Propagation by Layering
Propagation by layering is another method to propagate Bakerisideroxylon revolutum. The selected branch is bent down, and the bark is scraped to expose the inner wood. A rooting hormone is applied to the exposed area, and the branch is then covered with soil. The branch should be watered regularly until it develops roots. This method usually takes several months.
Disease and Pest Management for Bakerisideroxylon revolutum
Bakerisideroxylon revolutum, also known as African sandalwood or Osun in Nigeria, is a highly valued plant due to its numerous medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and productivity. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions on how to manage them.
Diseases
Leaf spots: Leaf spots are caused by fungal infections and are characterized by dark lesions on the leaves. They can cause defoliation, reduce plant vigor and yield. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves, avoid overhead watering, and ensure adequate drainage
Rust: Rust is a fungal disease characterized by reddish-brown pustules on the leaves and stems, which can cause leaf drop and stunted growth. To manage rust, remove and destroy infected leaves and stems, practice crop rotation, and apply a fungicide.
Root rots: Root rots are caused by soil-borne fungi that attack the roots, leading to yellowing and wilting of leaves, poor plant vigor, and stunted growth. To manage root rots, ensure proper soil drainage, avoid overwatering, and apply a fungicide to the soil.
Pests
Scale insects: Scale insects are small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems and suck sap, leading to stunted growth and reduced yield. To manage scale insects, prune infested parts of the plant, use sticky traps, and apply insecticidal soap or oil.
Mealybugs: These are small, soft-bodied, insects covered with a waxy white layer that infests the leaves and stems and causes stunted growth and reduced yield. To manage mealybugs, prune infested parts of the plant, use sticky traps, apply insecticidal soap or oil, and introduce natural predators like lacewings and ladybirds.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that suck sap from the leaves, leading to yellowing and wilting. They thrive in hot, dry conditions. To manage spider mites, use a strong jet of water to wash them off, increase humidity by misting the plant, introduce natural predators like ladybirds, and apply insecticidal soap or oil.
By implementing these disease and pest management strategies, you can protect your Bakerisideroxylon revolutum plant and keep it healthy, productive, and thriving.
