Beilschmiedia chevalieri Robyns & R.Wilczek
Beilschmiedia chevalieri, commonly known as Chevalier's Beilschmiedia, is a species of evergreen tree in the Lauraceae family. The plant is native to Central and West Africa, specifically in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, and Cameroon.
Appearance
The tree can grow up to 35 meters tall, with its trunk measuring up to 1 meter in diameter. The bark is brownish-grey and has vertical fissures. The leaves are bright green and lanceolate shaped, measuring about 10-15 cm in length and 4-5 cm in width. The flowers are small and green-yellow in color, while the fruit is spherical and measures about 2-3 cm in diameter.
Uses
Beilschmiedia chevalieri has various medicinal uses in several African countries. The bark of the tree is used to treat stomach pains, diarrhea, and fever. The roots are also used to manage respiratory disorders, and the leaves to treat muscle aches. The fruits are used as an insect repellent. Additionally, the wood of the tree is used for furniture, carpentry, and construction purposes due to its durability and strength.
Typical Growth Conditions of Beilschmiedia chevalieri Robyns & R.Wilczek
Beilschmiedia chevalieri Robyns & R.Wilczek, commonly known as Chevalier's canneloo, is a tropical tree species that is native to Central and West Africa. This evergreen tree species is valued for its hard, durable wood and is often used for furniture making.
Light Requirements
Chevalier's canneloo requires bright, indirect light to thrive. It should be placed near a south or west facing window in a room that receives filtered light. The plant should not be exposed to direct sunlight, as it can lead to leaf scorching and sunburn.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species prefers warm temperatures, with a range between 65 and 85°F (18-29°C). Chevalier's canneloo is not frost-resistant and should be grown indoors in areas with cold climates. The optimal temperature range for this tree should be relatively constant, with little variation between day and night temperature.
Soil Requirements
Chevalier's canneloo requires a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. A good potting soil mix should be a combination of loam, peat moss, and perlite. As an acidic-loving plant, it thrives in soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil's moisture levels should be consistent; a balance between damp and not overwatered soil is essential. Over watering may lead to root rots, and underwatering may cause shedding of leaves.
Providing proper light, temperature, and soil requirements to the Beilschmiedia chevalieri Robyns & R.Wilczek is key to maintaining a healthy and thriving plant. Therefore, if you follow the optimal guidelines for this species, your plants will reward you with their beauty and durability.
Cultivation methods
Beilschmiedia chevalieri, also known as the African walnut, can be grown outdoors in regions that have a subtropical and tropical climate. They prefer well-drained and fertile soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels, but it thrives best in soils with a pH range of 5.0 to 6.5.
The African walnut tree does well in full sun or partial shade. However, if the plant is grown in full shade, it tends to grow taller and lanky with smaller leaves.
Watering needs
Proper watering is essential for the growth and survival of the Beilschmiedia chevalieri. During the growing season, the plant requires regular watering to prevent the soil from drying out. The frequency of watering should be adjusted depending on the moisture content of the soil and the weather conditions. For instance, during hot and dry conditions, the plant may require more frequent watering.
During the dormant season, it's best to reduce watering to prevent waterlogging and root rot. It's worth noting that the tree can tolerate some drought conditions, but prolonged drought stress can cause stunted growth.
Fertilization
Applying fertilizer is crucial in ensuring the rapid and vigorous growth of Beilschmiedia chevalieri. The best time to fertilize is at the beginning of the growing season when the tree puts its first foliage. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied to young plants. Mature trees require more potassium and less nitrogen.
Fertilizer application should be done carefully as applying too much fertilizer can lead to root burn and the death of the tree.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to shape the young trees and promote better growth. The best time to prune is during the dormant season, before the new leaves start to shoot. Dead or diseased branches should be cut off completely. The tree can also be thinned out to allow for better air circulation and disease control. The pruning should be done carefully to prevent damaging the bark, which may lead to bark beetle infestation.
Propagation of Beilschmiedia Chevalieri Robyns & R.Wilczek
Propagation of Beilschmiedia chevalieri Robyns & R.Wilczek is done through seeds and vegetative means.
Propagation through Seeds
Beilschmiedia chevalieri Robyns & R.Wilczek seeds can take up to a year to germinate and may require some form of dormancy breaking to improve their chances of sprouting. The seeds should be collected from ripe fruit that has fallen off the tree. The collected seeds should then be separated from the fruit pulp, washed to remove any remaining flesh, and then air-dried before planting. The seeds should be sown in a seedbed or directly in pots filled with a well-draining medium. The medium should be kept moist, and the seeds should be shielded from intense light. The seedlings should be transplanted into individual containers when they are a few inches tall.
Vegetative Propagation
Beilschmiedia chevalieri Robyns & R.Wilczek can also be propagated by means of vegetative cuttings. However, this method is more challenging, and the success rate is relatively low. The cuttings should be prepared from the tree's dormant hardwood or semi-hardwood shoots. The cuttings should be about 10-15 cm long, and the leaves should be stripped off, leaving only a few at the top. The cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone powder and then planted in a medium of coarse sand and peat. The container should be placed in an environment with high humidity and bright, indirect light. The rooting medium should be kept moist until new growth appears. Once the new shoots have attained sufficient growth, they should be transplanted into individual containers.
Disease and Pest Management for Beilschmiedia chevalieri
Beilschmiedia chevalieri is a beautiful evergreen plant that is native to Central Africa. The plant is relatively resistant to diseases and pests, but it is not immune to them. Here are some of the common pests and diseases that affect the plant and how to manage them.
Diseases
Leaf Spot: This is a common disease that affects the leaves of the plant. It is caused by a fungus and can result in the yellowing and dropping of leaves. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and use a fungicide to prevent its spread.
Powdery Mildew: This is another fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of the plant. When left untreated, it can spread quickly and affect the plant's ability to photosynthesize. To manage this disease, use a fungicide and prune diseased parts of the plant.
Root Rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the plant's roots. It is caused by poor drainage and results in the death of the plant. To manage this disease, provide good drainage and avoid overwatering.
Pests
Spider Mites: These pests are tiny and can be difficult to spot. They infest the plant's leaves and feed on its sap, causing the leaves to become discolored, dry, and eventually fall off. To manage these pests, use an insecticide and remove affected leaves.
Scale: Scale insects are small and can be mistaken for small bumps on the plant's leaves or stems. They feed on the sap of the plant and can cause the leaves to become yellow and fall off. To manage these pests, use an insecticide and prune infected parts of the plant.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars can cause extensive damage to the plant by feeding on its leaves. To manage these pests, manually remove the caterpillars or use an insecticide.
Regularly inspecting your Beilschmiedia chevalieri plant for signs of disease or pests can help you catch and manage problems before they become severe. Always follow the instructions on the insecticides and fungicides carefully to avoid damaging the plant.
