Origin
Bersama abyssinica Fresen. subsp. paullinioides (Planch.) Verdc. is an African evergreen tree species that is native to several countries in sub-Saharan Africa, including Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. It typically grows in areas with high rainfall and can be found in forests, riverine habitats, and cultivated areas.
Common Names
This plant is known by a variety of common names in different African languages. In Kenya, it is called "mwazambangoma" in the Kamba language, "muthiga" in the Kikuyu language, and "mathaga" in the Meru language. In Tanzania, it is known as "mlendo" in the Wamwera language and "mkattikaa" in the Tawi language.
Uses
Bersama abyssinica Fresen. subsp. paullinioides (Planch.) Verdc. has a variety of uses in traditional African medicine. Its bark and leaves are used to treat a range of ailments including malaria, fever, and stomach problems. The plant's strong wood is also used in the construction of buildings and for making furniture and agricultural tools. In addition to its medicinal and commercial uses, the plant is also considered to have cultural and spiritual significance in some African communities.
General Appearance
This plant typically grows to a height of 5-15 meters and has a spreading canopy with a diameter of up to 10 meters. The leaves are leathery and glossy, with a pointed oval shape and a length of up to 15 centimeters. The plant produces small, greenish-white flowers that are followed by clusters of red or orange berries, which are edible but not widely consumed. The bark of the tree is dark brown and rough, with deep furrows and ridges.
Light Requirements
Bersama abyssinica Fresen. subsp. paullinioides (Planch.) Verdc. prefers high levels of light for optimal growth. It is best to place the plant in an area that receives direct sunlight or bright, filtered light for at least six hours a day. Lack of adequate light may negatively impact the plant's growth and health.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Bersama abyssinica Fresen. subsp. paullinioides (Planch.) Verdc. is between 20°C to 27°C. The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C but should be protected from frost. High temperatures above 30°C may also have a negative impact on the plant's growth and productivity.
Soil Requirements
Bersama abyssinica Fresen. subsp. paullinioides (Planch.) Verdc. grows well in well-draining soils with a pH between 6 and 7.5. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, as waterlogging can cause root rot. Adding organic matter to the soil can improve its structure and provide essential nutrients to the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Bersama abyssinica Fresen. subsp. paullinioides (Planch.) Verdc. thrives best in fertile, well-draining, and moist soils. The plant needs full sunlight for optimum growth and should be planted in open positions.
Propagation of this plant is mainly through seeds and cuttings. When planting seeds, it is best to sow them in a nursery bed and transplant the seedlings to the recommended spacing when they attain a height of about 15-20 cm.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. The soil should not be allowed to dry out between waterings as it can lead to leaf drop and reduced flowering. However, care should be taken not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot and other moisture-related issues. A well-draining soil will help to regulate the water intake and ensure that the plant's moisture requirements are met without causing harm.
Fertilization
Bersama abyssinica subsp. paullinioides requires regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth and flowering. A balanced NPK fertilizer with trace elements can be applied every two to three months during the growing season. Organic fertilizers such as compost or manure can also be used. The amount of fertilizer recommended will vary depending on the soil fertility, growth rate, and other environmental factors. A soil test can help to determine the appropriate fertilizer application.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the plant's shape, size, and overall beauty. Bersama abyssinica subsp. paullinioides should be pruned regularly, removing any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Pruning can also be used to control the plant's size and shape. This should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Regular pruning will ensure that the plant remains healthy, and it produces dense foliage and abundant flowers.
Propagation of Bersama abyssinica Fresen. subsp. paullinioides (Planch.) Verdc.
Bersama abyssinica Fresen. subsp. paullinioides (Planch.) Verdc., commonly known as the African dogwood, is a small tree or shrub that belongs to the Meliaceae family. The plant is native to Africa, particularly in East and Central Africa.
Seeds
The most common method of propagating the African dogwood is through seeds. The seeds of the plant are usually collected during the fruiting season. The collected seeds are dried to a moisture content of 5-7% and stored in a cool dry place. Before planting, the seeds are usually soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat and improve germination rates. The seeds are then sown in seedbeds or polythene bags filled with a suitable substrate such as a mix of sand and compost.
Cuttings
Propagation of Bersama abyssinica can also be done through semi-hardwood cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from current season growth, preferably from the middle part of the plant. The cuttings should be approximately 15cm in length and contain a minimum of two nodes. The basal end of the cuttings is dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a substrate such as a mix of perlite and compost. The cuttings are usually covered with a plastic bag or kept in a mist chamber to provide high humidity levels and improve rooting.
Air layering
Another method of propagating African dogwood is through air layering. This method involves creating a wound on a branch and covering it with a moist substrate such as sphagnum moss. The wound is coated with rooting hormone to promote root formation. Roots usually develop within a few weeks, and the rooted branch can then be detached from the parent plant and planted in a suitable substrate.
Disease and Pest Management for Bersama abyssinica subsp. paullinioides
Bersama abyssinica subsp. paullinioides is a plant that is native to Africa and can be grown in home gardens and as a potential source of timber. While this plant species is generally hardy, it can be affected by several diseases and pests that affect growth and yield.
Common Diseases of Bersama abyssinica subsp. paullinioides
Bersama abyssinica subsp. paullinioides is generally resistant to many diseases. However, some common diseases that may affect the plant include:
- Powdery mildew: This disease appears as white powder-like spots on the upper surface of leaves and is caused by fungi. Spraying with a solution of baking soda, soap, and water can help prevent and control powdery mildew.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot appears as brown spots on the leaves and can cause defoliation. Maintaining proper plant spacing, removing affected leaves, and practicing good sanitation can help prevent and control leaf spot.
- Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that appears as yellow, orange, or brown spots on leaves. It can be prevented and controlled by practicing good sanitation, maintaining proper plant spacing, and using fungicides if necessary.
Common Pests of Bersama abyssinica subsp. paullinioides
Bersama abyssinica subsp. paullinioides may be vulnerable to some pests that may damage plants and reduce yield. Some common pests that may attack the plant include:
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are insects that appear as white, waxy clusters on stems and leaves. To manage, prune affected areas or use rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soaps to control infestations.
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that cluster on the undersides of leaves and can cause wilting and stunted growth. They can be controlled with insecticidal soaps, insecticides, or natural predators like ladybugs.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larval stage of moths and butterflies and can be identified by the presence of chewed leaves. They can be managed with natural predators like birds or insecticides like Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
Regular inspection of the plants and prompt actions are essential in preventing and managing diseases and pests. Maintaining good plant health by providing balanced nutrition, removing dead and diseased tissues, and practicing crop rotation can also help manage diseases and pests. In severe cases, consult a professional horticulturist for advice on appropriate chemical treatments.
