Overview of Balsamea angolensis
Balsamea angolensis (Engl.) Hiern, also known as the Angola balsam, is a tropical tree species from the family of Burseraceae. It is native to Africa and commonly found in Angola, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Common Names
The Angola balsam is known by various common names including African balsam, Angola resin, balsamo, copal, kannen, mozambicanum, and umwenje.
General Appearance
The Angola balsam is a medium-sized evergreen tree that can grow up to 25 meters in height. It has a straight trunk with a dark grey or brown bark. The leaves are compound, alternately arranged, and pinnate, with each leaflet being about 7-18 cm long and 2-4 cm wide. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow, clustered in inflorescences. The fruit is a capsule containing one or two seeds.
Uses
The Angola balsam is widely used in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties. The resin of the tree is aromatic and has antimicrobial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is used for treating wounds, skin infections, and respiratory problems. The resin is also used as incense and in perfumes. The wood of the tree is hard and durable, making it suitable for construction, furniture, and utensils. The leaves and bark of the tree are used for tanning leather. Additionally, the tree is planted as an ornamental tree due to its attractive appearance.
Light Requirements
Balsamea angolensis requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. In its natural habitat, this plant usually grows in open woodland or savannah areas where it receives a mix of direct sunlight and filtered shade. If grown in areas with hot temperatures, partial shade may be preferable to prevent overheating and sun damage.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to Angola, where the climate is warm and tropical. Balsamea angolensis prefers temperatures within the range of 20 to 35 degrees Celsius. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but colder temperatures should be avoided as they can cause stunted growth or even death.
Soil Requirements
Balsamea angolensis thrives in well-draining soils with a high organic matter content. It prefers neutral to slightly acidic soil pH levels between 6.0 and 7.0. The soil should also be rich in nutrients, particularly nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It is important to avoid waterlogged soils as this can lead to root rot and other diseases. This plant can also grow in sandy soils as long as there is enough organic matter to retain moisture.
Cultivation Methods
Balsamea angolensis (Engl.) Hiern thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. It is commonly found in Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. It prefers sandy soil that is well-drained and slightly acidic. The plant can tolerate both full sun and partial shade, but the latter is more favorable.
To propagate Balsamea angolensis, take softwood cuttings in the spring and plant them in sandy soil. Keep the soil moist and ensure there is good aeration to prevent diseases. Germination can take up to four weeks, and it may take months to see significant growth.
Watering Needs
Balsamea angolensis requires regular watering to grow healthy and strong. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil moisture. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, as overly wet soil can lead to root rot. However, avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as this can cause the plant's leaves to wilt and drop off.
Fertilization
Balsamea angolensis benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer in the spring and summer months when the plant is actively growing, and skip feeding during the dormant period. The amount and frequency of application will depend on the specific fertilizer's instructions, so check the label before applying.
Pruning
Balsamea angolensis requires minimal pruning beyond basic maintenance. Remove any dead or diseased branches, which can be done at any time of the year. If you want to shape or reduce the size of the plant, prune in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Use a sharp pair of pruners or loppers and make clean cuts at a 45-degree angle.
With proper cultivation and care, Balsamea angolensis can grow into a beautiful and healthy plant.
Propagation of Balsamea angolensis (Engl.) Hiern
Balsamea angolensis (Engl.) Hiern can be propagated through several methods which include seeds, stem cuttings, and air layering. However, seed propagation is the most efficient method as it is the most viable one and produces a high yield of plants.
Seed Propagation
To propagate Balsamea angolensis through seeds, the seeds must first be collected when they are ripe and healthy. The seeds must then be sown into a greenhouse or a seedling tray filled with well-draining soil or substrate. The soil must be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Germination should occur within two to three weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots after six months.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Stem cuttings are also an effective propagation method for Balsamea angolensis. To propagate through stem cuttings, select healthy and strong stems that are not too woody. The cuttings should be approximately 15-20 cm in length and contain at least three to four nodes. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Place the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining soil and keep it moist. Roots should start to grow within a few weeks, and the plant can be transplanted after six months.
Air Layering
Air layering is another propagation method that can be used for Balsamea angolensis. Select a healthy stem and make a small cut on the stem, making sure not to cut all the way through. Apply rooting hormone powder at the cut site and then wrap the cut site with moist sphagnum moss and wrap the moss with plastic wrap. After a few weeks, roots should start to grow from the cut site. Cut the stem below the roots and plant the rooted stem in a pot with well-draining soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Balsamea angolensis
Balsamea angolensis, also known as the African copal tree, is a plant species native to Africa and is used for various purposes such as medicinal, cultural, and resin extraction. However, the plant is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can reduce its productivity and quality.
Common Diseases
Balsamea angolensis is vulnerable to a range of diseases, including:
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by fungi that live in the soil and attack the roots of the plant. It can cause the roots to decay, leading to stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and eventually death. To avoid root rot, avoid overwatering, ensure proper drainage, and use well-draining soils.
- Canker Disease: This disease is caused by fungal pathogens that enter through wounds or cracks on the bark of the plant, leading to wood decay and death of branches or the entire tree. To prevent canker disease from spreading, prune infected branches and avoid physical injury to the plant.
- Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by fungi that attack the leaves of the plant, leading to yellowing, browning, or blackening of leaves. To prevent leaf spot, avoid overhead watering, ensure good ventilation, and remove infected leaves and debris.
Common Pests
Balsamea angolensis is also susceptible to various pests that feed on its leaves, stems, and roots. Some common pests include:
- Caterpillars: These insects feed on the leaves of the plant, leading to defoliation and reduced growth. To control caterpillars, handpick them or use insecticides.
- Aphids: These small insects suck sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth, curling of leaves, and reduced yield. To control aphids, use insecticides or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs.
- Mites: These tiny creatures feed on the leaves of the plant, causing yellowing and withering. To control mites, use insecticides or improve humidity levels.
To effectively manage these diseases and pests, it's essential to maintain good plant hygiene, ensure proper watering, fertilization, and lighting, and promptly address any signs of infection or infestation. Use of biological or chemical controls and natural predators can also help control diseases and pests without harming the plant or the environment.
