Origin
Balanites angolensis (Welw.) Welw. ex Mildbr. & Schltr. subsp. angolensis is a plant species in the family Balanitaceae. It is native to Angola, Namibia, and Botswana, where it grows in woodlands and savannas.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known by several names including the torchwood tree, mbonga, mutondo, orugaruga and the desert date tree.
Appearance
The torchwood tree grows up to 20m tall and has a short trunk and a broad, rounded crown. The leaves are simple, alternate, and oval in shape. They are dark green, leathery, and shiny with a length of up to 9cm and a width of up to 4cm. The tree flowers from November to April, producing small, fragrant, yellowish-green flowers. The fruit is a large, woody berry, which is 3-4cm in diameter and contains a hard, oily seed.
Uses
The Balanites angolensis subsp. angolensis has various uses. The fruit pulp is edible and can be eaten raw, cooked, or dried. It is a good source of vitamin C, calcium, and phosphorus. The seed oil is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as skin diseases, headache, and fever. The wood is hard and strong, making it suitable for the construction of furniture and implements. Additionally, the plant is used in the production of soap and cosmetics, while the bark and leaves are used for tanning leather.
Light
Balanites angolensis requires full sun exposure to thrive. It cannot tolerate heavy shade or cloudy weather. This species needs plenty of light to photosynthesize and produce energy to grow.
Temperature
The optimal growth temperature range for Balanites angolensis is between 25°C to 35°C. The plant is adapted to semi-arid and arid regions, and it can withstand high temperatures up to 45°C. At temperatures below 20°C, the growth of this species slows down, and it becomes susceptible to frost damage.
Soil Requirements
Balanites angolensis prefers well-drained soils with a pH range between 5 to 8.5. It can grow in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils. This plant is highly resistant to drought and can tolerate poor soil conditions, but it cannot tolerate waterlogged soils. Balanites angolensis has a deep root system that enables it to obtain water from deeper soil layers.
Cultivation of Balanites angolensis (Welw.) Welw. ex Mildbr. & Schltr. subsp. angolensis
Balanites angolensis (Welw.) Welw. ex Mildbr. & Schltr. subsp. angolensis, commonly known as the torchwood tree, is a natural forest species found in sub-Saharan Africa. It is a deciduous tree which grows up to 20 meters tall. It is typically grown from seeds and requires well-draining soil to promote healthy root development.
Watering Needs
Balanites angolensis (Welw.) Welw. ex Mildbr. & Schltr. subsp. angolensis requires moderate watering, especially during the dry season. It is essential to water the plant regularly and thoroughly until the soil is well saturated. However, the plant should not be left in water-logged soil as it can lead to root rot. Therefore, the best way is to water the plant sparingly but consistently to ensure healthy growth.
Fertilization
The torchwood tree needs regular fertilization to encourage growth and ensure healthy foliage. A slow-release fertilizer with balanced nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be applied every six months. Additionally, the plant requires a yearly application of organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to supply nutrients to the soil.
Pruning
Balanites angolensis (Welw.) Welw. ex Mildbr. & Schltr. subsp. angolensis requires minimal pruning as it has a natural growth habit. However, pruning is essential to remove diseased or damaged branches or to shape the plant to the desired form. The best time to prune the torchwood tree is during the late winter or early spring when the plant is dormant. Pruning should be done minimally, and the wounds should be treated with fungicide to prevent infections.
Propagation of Balanites angolensis (Welw.) Welw. ex Mildbr. & Schltr. subsp. angolensis
There are several ways to propagate Balanites angolensis subsp. angolensis, including:
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the most common way to propagate Balanites angolensis subsp. angolensis. The seeds need to be collected during the fruiting season, which is from December to March. The seed pods should be allowed to dry naturally on the tree before harvesting. Once harvested, the pods should be left to dry in the sun for a few days until they split naturally and release their seeds. These seeds can be sown immediately or stored in a cool and dry place for later sowing.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings can also be used to propagate Balanites angolensis subsp. angolensis. Semi-hardwood cuttings should be taken from the current season's growth during the wet season. The cuttings should be approximately 15-20 cm long and should be treated with a rooting hormone before planting. The cuttings should be planted in well-drained soil and kept moist until they have developed roots.
Air-Layering Propagation
Air-layering can also be used to propagate Balanites angolensis subsp. angolensis. This method involves making a cut below a node on a healthy stem, then wrapping the area with damp sphagnum moss and a plastic bag to keep the moisture in. Roots will develop in the moist sphagnum moss and the stem can be cut off and planted once the roots have developed.
Regardless of the propagation method used, the new plants should be kept in a shady area until they are established and then gradually moved into full sun.
Disease Management for Balanites Angolensis
Balanites angolensis is relatively resistant to diseases, however, it may become vulnerable to some diseases under certain conditions. Here are some common diseases that might affect Balanites angolensis and ways to manage them:
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, fruits, branches, and twigs of the plant. The infected leaves will eventually fall off while the fruits will have lesions and rot. To manage this disease, it is recommended to prune off the infected parts of the plant and dispose of them completely. Regular fertilization and watering can strengthen the plant and make it more resistant to the disease.
Canker
Canker is a fungal disease that affects the branches and stems of the plant. It causes wilting, leaf drop, and stem dieback. The infected part of the plant should be cut off and burned or disposed of immediately. The wounds on the plant should be treated with suitable fungicides.
Pest Management for Balanites Angolensis
Balanites angolensis is susceptible to a range of pests, including insects and mammals. Here are some common pests that might affect Balanites angolensis and ways to manage them:
Termites
Termites are one of the most common pests that affect Balanites angolensis. They can cause a lot of damage to the roots and stem, which can eventually lead to the death of the plant. One of the ways to prevent the termites from attacking the plants is to create a barrier around the plant using sand or gravel. Applying insecticides around the plant can also prevent termite infestations.
Scale Insects
Scale insects suck the sap from the plant, which can reduce its vigor. They secrete a sugary substance, which may attract fungi and ants. The use of horticultural oils can prevent or control scale insects. Pruning off and disposing of infected parts of the plant can also help to reduce the population of Scale insects.
Mammalian Pests
Mammalian pests, such as rodents, can cause damage to the plant by gnawing its stem and roots. Applying rodenticides can mitigate mammalian pest infestations. Erecting physical barriers around the plant can also prevent rodent attacks.
Implementing good cultural practices, such as regular watering, fertilizing, and pruning, can help to keep the plant healthy and reduce pest and disease problems. It is also important to monitor the plant regularly for any signs of pests or diseases so that preventive measures can be taken immediately.
