Origin and Common Names
Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips, also known as African mallotus or African balsam pear, is a tree species that belongs to the family of Euphorbiaceae. This plant is native to tropical Africa, from Sierra Leone to the Democratic Republic of Congo.Uses
African mallotus is widely used in traditional African medicine due to its various medicinal properties. Its leaves, bark, and roots are used to treat a wide range of ailments, including fever, headache, stomachache, and diarrhea. The plant is also used for its antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties and is used to treat skin disorders, wounds, and respiratory problems. Aside from its medicinal uses, African mallotus is also used for its timber, which is durable and resistant to termites. The wood is used for construction, furniture, and carving. The plant is also used as a shade tree, ornamental tree, and for soil conservation.General Appearance
Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips is a large, semi-deciduous tree that can reach up to 20 meters in height. The tree has a straight trunk, and its branches form a dense, rounded crown. The bark is smooth, gray, and slightly flaky at the base, becoming rough and brownish towards the top of the tree. The leaves are alternate, simple, lanceolate, and have a pointed tip. They are dark green and glossy on the upper side, and paler on the bottom. The flowers are small, greenish-yellow, and are borne in clusters at the base of the leaves. The fruit is a greenish-yellow, spherical capsule that splits open when ripe, revealing three seeds that are covered with a bright red aril.Growth Conditions of Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips
Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips, commonly known as the Forest Mahogany, is a slow-growing tropical tree that can grow up to 20 meters in height. It is native to Southeast Asia and is found in lowland and hillsides forests.
Light Requirements
The Forest Mahogany prefers partial to full sun exposure. It needs a minimum of 4 - 6 hours of direct sunlight for proper growth and development. If planted in shaded areas, it may result in poor growth and reduction in foliage density.
Temperature Requirements
Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips grows well in warm tropical climates with a temperature range of 23 - 30°C (73 - 86°F). The humidity levels should also be high for the tree to thrive. An ideal moisture range is between 70 - 90%, and the tree requires consistent rainfall throughout the year.
Soil Requirements
Forest Mahogany prefers well-drained soils that are fertile, loamy, and rich in organic matter. The tree needs a pH range of 5.5 - 6.5 to grow and develop healthy roots. Additionally, it should be planted in soils that are free of contaminants such as toxic chemicals or heavy metals, which can impact the tree's growth and development.
Overall, Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips is a hardy tree that can grow in various soil types and climatic conditions. However, it is essential to provide the optimal growth conditions for the tree to thrive and reach its maximum potential.
Cultivation of Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips
Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips, also known as the Chambeyronia macrocarpa, is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. It requires moderate sunlight and can be grown in both full sunlight and partial shade. It is best grown in well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.0 to 6.0. The plant prefers temperatures between 20°C to 30°C but can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C.
Watering Needs
Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. The plant does not like soggy soil, so it is essential to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot and ultimately damage or kill the plant. Rainwater is the best choice for irrigation.
Fertilization
Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips requires regular feeding to maintain vigorous growth and healthy foliage. The ideal fertilizer blend for the plant is a balanced 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer during the growing season, which typically runs from spring through summer. The plant does not require fertilization during the dormant season.
Pruning
Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips does not require frequent pruning, but you can perform basic maintenance pruning to remove any dead or diseased leaves or stems. It is advisable to prune the plant in late winter before the growing season to encourage healthy new growth during the spring. Remove spent flowers and dead leaves promptly to keep the plant clean and free from debris.
Propagation of Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips
Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips is a rare and endangered tree species that is native to the Eastern Arc Mountains of Tanzania. Propagation of this plant can be quite challenging as it has a slow growth rate, and the seeds have a short viability period. However, there are some propagation methods that can be used, including:
Seed Propagation
The most common propagation method for Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips is through seed propagation. The seeds are collected from mature trees, and they should be sown as soon as possible as they have a short shelf life. Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting to enhance germination. Seeds are then sown in a well-draining soil mix and placed in a warm and bright location. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and germination should occur within 4-6 weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips can also be propagated through stem cuttings, although success rates are lower than seed propagation. Take woody stem cuttings of about 15cm length, and remove all leaves except the top pair. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and plant the cuttings in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and place the cuttings in a warm and bright location. It may take several months for roots to develop, and once established, the cutting can be transplanted to a larger pot or directly to the ground.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting can be done as a propagation method for Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips, but it is relatively uncommon. The rootstock used should be a closely related species, and the scion should be taken from mature trees. The bark on both the rootstock and scion should be slit, and they should be joined together tightly to promote union. Once the graft has taken, the plant can be transplanted to a larger pot or directly to the ground.
Disease and Pest Management for Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips
Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips is a relatively hardy plant species native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa. However, it is not immune to diseases and pests that can affect its growth and vigour.
Common Diseases that Affect Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips
Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips is susceptible to a range of fungal and bacterial diseases, including leaf spot, powdery mildew, and rust. These diseases can result in discoloured and distorted leaves, stunted growth, and reduced fruit production.
To manage fungal and bacterial diseases in Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips, it is important to maintain good hygiene practices in the garden or farm. This includes removing any infected plant debris and pruning infected branches as soon as they are noticed. It may also be necessary to apply fungicides and bactericides to the plant to prevent further spread of the disease.
Common Pests that Affect Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips
Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips is also affected by a variety of insect pests, including mealybugs, aphids, and scales. These pests can cause extensive damage to the leaves and fruits of the plant and affect its overall health.
One effective way to manage insect pests in Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips is to use predatory insects, such as ladybugs and lacewing larvae, to control the pest population naturally. Additionally, neem oil, insecticidal soap, and horticultural oils can be used to control pest populations.
Regular monitoring and vigilance are essential to managing diseases and pests in Bersama swinnyi E.Phillips. Early detection and intervention can prevent the spread of diseases and minimize the damage caused by pests, ensuring a healthy and productive plant.
