Overview
Bersama abyssinica Fresen. var. holstii (Gürke) Verdc. is a plant species from the family Meliaceae that is native to various regions of Africa. It is also commonly known as Oromo pepper, Abyssinian cedar, or the Ethiopian mahogany. This plant species has many uses and benefits that are valued by the local communities where it grows.Appearance
The plant Bersama abyssinica Fresen. var. holstii (Gürke) Verdc. is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 15 meters tall. It is known for its tall and straight stem, which has a diameter of about 50 cm. The plant has a large, spreading crown with a broad, flat, and rounded top. Its bark is dark brown or grey, rough, and fissured, with long flakes peeling away from the stem. The branches of the plant are thick and have reddish brown pubescence, which is present on young stem and leaf. Its leaves are alternate, pinnately compound, with a length of 25–40 cm. It has a robust petiole that can reach 7.5 cm in length. The leaves can be eaten by cattle and sheep.Origin
Bersama abyssinica Fresen. var. holstii (Gürke) Verdc. is native to various regions of Africa, including Ethiopia, Somalia, Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.Common Uses
The plant Bersama abyssinica Fresen. var. holstii (Gürke) Verdc. has many uses, including medicinal, cultural, and economic. The bark, leaves, and fruits are used by traditional healers to treat many ailments, including stomach pains, fever, and skin diseases. The plant is also used for cultural purposes, such as making music instruments, furniture, and household utensils. The fruits of the plant are rich in oil and protein and have potential as a source of food and income. The seeds are edible, roasted, or boiled and mainly used as coffee blends. Overall, Bersama abyssinica Fresen. var. holstii (Gürke) Verdc. is a plant that has many uses and is highly valued by the communities where it grows. Its long-term survival needs to be supported through sustainable management strategies.Growth conditions for Bersama abyssinica Fresen. var. holstii (Gürke) Verdc.
Light: Bersama abyssinica Fresen. var. holstii (Gürke) Verdc. requires full or partial sunlight to grow and thrive. It is best to place the plant in a spot with bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight may lead to leaf scorching, so it is essential to provide shade during the hottest parts of the day.
Temperature: This plant thrives in warm temperatures. The optimum temperature range for Bersama abyssinica Fresen. var. holstii (Gürke) Verdc. growth is between 20-30°C (68-86°F). It can tolerate temperatures as low as 15°C (59°F) and as high as 35°C (95°F). Avoid exposing the plant to temperature fluctuations as it can lead to stress and stunted growth.
Soil: The Bersama abyssinica Fresen. var. holstii (Gürke) Verdc. plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH range for the soil should be between 5.5 to 6.5, slightly acidic. The plant is sensitive to waterlogged soil, so ensure that the soil is well-drained. Regularly adding compost or fertilizer will help keep the soil healthy and provide the necessary nutrients to the plant.
Cultivation
Bersama abyssinica var. holstii is a slow-growing plant that can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. When growing from seeds, it's recommended to sow them in a well-draining soil mixture, as they may rot in overly wet conditions. Seeds should be started indoors and transplanted outdoors when the seedlings are robust enough to handle environmental stress.
Planting site selection is crucial to the successful cultivation of this plant. Bersama abyssinica var. holstii prefers well-draining, rich, and slightly acidic soil with a pH of between 4.5 and 6.5. The site should also be sheltered from wind and have access to at least six hours of partial sun.
Watering Needs
While this plant can tolerate drought, it grows best when adequately watered. Water the plant twice a week during the hot season and once a week during the cold season. However, you should reduce water in the rainy season because overwatering can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
This plant type benefits from periodic fertilization with nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer, and preferably an organic option.
Pruning
Pruning can be performed at any time of the year, removing dead or diseased branches or the ones taking away from the plant's aesthetics. Use sterilized pruning shears to cut back the branches to the desired size. However, pruning too much will lead to stunted growth.
Propagation of Bersama abyssinica Fresen. var. holstii (Gürke) Verdc.
There are several ways to propagate Bersama abyssinica Fresen. var. holstii (Gürke) Verdc., including:
Seed propagation
The plant produces seeds inside its fruits. The seeds should be collected when the fruit turns brown and is about to split open. The seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before planting them in well-draining soil. It is essential to maintain constant moisture until the seedlings have developed. Seed propagation is simple and effective for the plant.
Cuttings propagation
Softwood cuttings can be taken from the plant during spring or summer. The cuttings should be made from stem tips that are not yet woody. The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone before planting them in soil or rooting medium. They should be kept in a warm, moist environment until they root. Hardwood cuttings can be taken during the dormant season, treated with rooting hormone, and kept in a cool, moist environment.
Division propagation
Bersama abyssinica Fresen. var. holstii (Gürke) Verdc. can be propagated by dividing the plant during the dormant season. The plant should be dug out of the ground, and the roots should be separated by hand or with a sharp knife. The divided sections should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until they establish.
Disease and Pest Management for Bersama abyssinica Fresen. var. holstii (Gürke) Verdc.
Bersama abyssinica Fresen. var. holstii (Gürke) Verdc. is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests that can affect its growth and productivity. Here are some common diseases and pests that affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases:
Leaf Spot:
Leaf spot is one of the common diseases that affects Bersama abyssinica Fresen. var. holstii (Gürke) Verdc. The symptoms include the presence of small, circular, and dark lesions on the leaves. The disease is caused by fungi, and it can be managed by using a fungicide. Spray the fungicide on the affected plant parts, and repeat the application after every 14 days. The timely removal of diseased leaves and proper disposal can also help in the control of the disease.
Anthracnose:
Anthracnose is another fungal disease that affects Bersama abyssinica Fresen. var. holstii (Gürke) Verdc. It causes dark, sunken lesions on the leaves, stems, and fruits. The disease spreads quickly in wet and humid conditions. To control the disease, apply a copper-based fungicide. Ensure the plant spacing is adequate, promote proper air circulation through pruning of diseased parts and removing debris, and avoid over-irrigating.
Pests:
Mealybugs:
Mealybugs are common pests that feed on plant sap, causing the leaves to wilt and yellow. Severe infestations can lead to stunted growth and plant death. Use horticultural oil or neem oil to control or eliminate these pests. Alternatively, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to wipe the pests away and disrupt their protective wax coating. Repeat these applications regularly to keep the pests at bay. Proper sanitation and removal of debris can significantly prevent infestations of mealybugs.
Spider Mites:
Spider mites feed on the plant cell sap, leading to yellowing of leaves and the presence of a white or yellow stippling overtime. Regularly check for signs of pest presence, paying keen attention to the undersides of leaves or areas that show any damage. You can use insecticidal soaps or neem oil to manage spider mites. Ensure the plant is always hydrated and moist, as spider mites thrive in dry conditions.
With these disease and pest management strategies, you can keep your Bersama abyssinica Fresen. var. holstii (Gürke) Verdc. plants healthy and productive. Prevention and early detection are critical, and in case of a severe infestation, seek professional assistance.
