Overview
Belmontia ohlendorffii (Eckl. ex Griseb.) Griseb. is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree that belongs to the family Celastraceae. It is native to southern Africa and is commonly known as the Harpuisboom.
Appearance
The Harpuisboom tree can grow up to 8-15 meters tall and has a dense crown of glossy, dark green leaves. The leaves are simple, leathery, and slightly serrated along their edges. The tree also produces small, white flowers that are densely arranged in terminal clusters. The fruit it produces is smooth and glossy, colored bright red when ripe, and contains one or two seeds.
Uses
The bark of the Belmontia ohlendorffii tree has been traditionally used in African traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments, including fever, flu, and malaria. The roots and leaves are also used for their medicinal properties. The tree is also commonly grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and small fruit that is attractive to birds.
Light Requirements
Belmontia ohlendorffii prefers medium to bright indirect light. Placing the plant near a window that faces east or west is ideal as it receives morning or evening sun without experiencing harsh midday sun. The plant should be protected from direct sunlight, which can burn the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
Belmontia ohlendorffii prefers warm temperatures ranging from 65-80 degrees Fahrenheit (18-26 degrees Celsius). The plant should not be exposed to temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius) as it can suffer from cold damage.
Soil Requirements
Belmontia ohlendorffii grows well in rich, well-draining soil that is moist but not overly wet. A good mix for the plant would be one part peat moss, one part potting soil, and one part perlite or sand to improve drainage. The soil should also be slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.0.
Cultivation methods
Belmontia ohlendorffii is a mild-growing shrub that thrives in subtropical regions. The plant prefers full or partial sunlight, well-drained acidic soil, and moderate humidity levels. During the dry seasons, relocate the plant to a location that has shelter from the strongest sun in the afternoon.
Belmontia ohlendorffii requires moderate watering; therefore, avoid overwatering the plant. The optimal temperature for the plant should be between 18 and 27°C.
Watering needs
As mentioned earlier, Belmontia ohlendorffii favors moderate watering. Water the plant when the upper layer of soil is dry to the touch, usually when the top 2-3 inches of soil have become dry. The roots of the plant require moist soil, but the stem and leaves must never remain damp for extended periods since they may rot. In addition, the temperature and humidity levels might impact the watering; consider all three factors when watering the plant.
Fertilization
Belmontia ohlendorffii requires regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth. Use a well-balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-3 months during the active growth phase, which is typically in the spring and summer seasons. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the autumn and winter when growth is typically slow. A mature plant may require re-potting after every two years to provide extra nutrition and space to grow.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for maintaining the size and shape of Belmontia ohlendorffii. The plant should be pruned when it becomes too leggy or overgrown, usually in the spring season. Pinch off the tips of the stems to encourage fuller growth and prune the stems to 1/3 of their current size. Be cautious to avoid causing shocks to the plant and destroying its delicate form.
Propagation of Belmontia ohlendorffii
Belmontia ohlendorffii can be propagated using different methods including seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Propagation using Seeds
The seeds of Belmontia ohlendorffii can be collected from the parent plant and sown immediately or stored for future use. To sow the seeds, prepare a well-drained seedling mix and sprinkle the seeds on top. Cover lightly with soil, mist with water, and provide bottom heat and bright light. Seedlings usually emerge within three weeks and can be transplanted once they have grown bigger.
Propagation using Stem Cuttings
Better results can usually be obtained using stem cuttings. To propagate by stem cuttings, first sterilize a sharp knife or scissors. Select a healthy stem with several nodes and remove the lower leaves to expose the stem. Then, make a diagonal cut just below a node and dip the end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and keep it warm and moist until roots have formed. Transplant the new plant to a larger pot once it has grown a few inches.
Propagation by Division
Belmontia ohlendorffi can also be propagated by division. This method involves separating an existing clump or root ball and repotting each section separately. To do this, gently dig up the parent plant and separate the root ball into several sections, each with a healthy stem and root system. Replant each section in a well-draining soil mix and keep it moist until new growth appears.
Disease Management
Some diseases that may affect Belmontia ohlendorffii include leaf spot, root rot, and powdery mildew. To manage these diseases, it is important to ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and not overwatered. Avoid wetting the foliage during watering, as this can contribute to the spread of diseases. Remove any infected plant material promptly and treat with fungicides as recommended by a horticulturist or plant expert.
Pest Management
Common pests that may affect Belmontia ohlendorffii include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. To manage these pests, regularly inspect the plant and remove any visible pests by hand. Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to treat infestations, following the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Avoid overfertilizing the plant, as this can attract pests and make the plant more vulnerable to infestations.
