Introduction
Bridelia ndellensis Beille x B. micrantha (Hochst.) Baill. ex Hell. refers to a hybrid plant resulting from a cross between Bridelia ndellensis and Bridelia micrantha. It belongs to the family Phyllanthaceae and is native to Africa.Common Names
The plant has different common names depending on the region where it is found. In Cameroon, it is called akom, abar, or bachong, while in Gabon, it is known as nzong. The plant is also referred to as the river hackberry or the bird cherry.Uses
Bridelia ndellensis Beille x B. micrantha has numerous uses in traditional medicine. The bark and leaves of the plant are used for the treatment of different ailments such as diarrhea, cough, and other respiratory infections. The plant's bark is also used as an antidote for snakebites, while the leaves are used in the treatment of malaria. The plant's roots and stems, on the other hand, are utilized in the treatment of sexually transmitted infections. The plant has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, and its bark and leaves are believed to possess anti-diabetic and antiulcer effects.General Appearance
Bridelia ndellensis Beille x B. micrantha is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to 20 meters tall. The tree has a straight trunk with a grayish-brown bark that peels off in flakes. The leaves are oval-shaped, with a dark green glossy surface, and a lighter green underside. The plant produces small greenish-yellow flowers that are followed by small cherry-like fruits that turn purplish-black when they ripen. Overall, the hybrid plant has a bushy appearance with dense foliage that provides shade and shelter for a variety of animals and insects.Light requirements
Bridelia ndellensis Beille x B. micrantha (Hochst.) Baill. ex Hell. requires full sunlight for optimal growth and fruiting. Therefore, it is recommended to grow this plant in an open space without any shade or obstruction. However, young plants can be raised in a partially shaded area until they are well-established.
Temperature requirements
This plant grows well in tropical and subtropical regions with temperatures ranging between 20°C to 35°C. It is not frost tolerant and cannot withstand temperatures below 15°C. Therefore, it is best suited for regions with warm and humid climatic conditions.
Soil requirements
Bridelia ndellensis Beille x B. micrantha (Hochst.) Baill. ex Hell. grows well in a wide range of soil types, including sandy loam, clay loam, and laterites. However, the plant prefers well-drained soils that are deep, rich in nutrients, and not excessively acidic or alkaline. To improve soil fertility, it is recommended to add organic matter or compost to the soil before planting.
Cultivation
The Bridelia ndellensis Beille x B. micrantha (Hochst.) Baill. ex Hell. is a tropical plant that thrives in warm, humid environments. It requires a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter and should be planted in a spot that receives partial or full sun. Planting should be done in early spring when the temperatures are warm enough for the plant to grow.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Watering should be done when the soil is dry to the touch but avoid overwatering. Too much water can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Additionally, the plant should be watered from the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can encourage the growth of fungal diseases.
Fertilization
The Bridelia ndellensis Beille x B. micrantha (Hochst.) Baill. ex Hell. benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer throughout the growing season. Fertilization should be done every two to three weeks. The fertilizer should be applied to the base of the plant and should be watered in thoroughly after application.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and health of the plant. The plant should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Dead, damaged, and diseased branches should be removed, and any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other should be pruned to prevent damage. Additionally, the plant can be pruned to control its size and shape.
Propagation Methods of Bridelia Ndellensis Beille x B. Micrantha (Hochst.) Baill. ex Hell.
Bridelia Ndellensis Beille x B. Micrantha (Hochst.) Baill. ex Hell. can be propagated through various methods. The following are the most common:
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagation for Bridelia Ndellensis Beille x B. Micrantha (Hochst.) Baill. ex Hell. is through seed. The seeds can be collected from mature fruits and sown in a seed tray filled with a well-draining potting mix. The seeds should be covered lightly with soil and kept moist until germination. Germination usually takes about 2-4 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted after they have developed a few leaves.
Cuttings Propagation
Bridelia Ndellensis Beille x B. Micrantha (Hochst.) Baill. ex Hell. can also be propagated through cuttings. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken from the current season's growth are the best for this purpose. The cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long and stripped of their lower leaves. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone powder and inserted into a rooting medium. Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid place with bright, indirect light. It may take several months for the cuttings to root and produce new growth.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is another method that can be used to propagate Bridelia Ndellensis Beille x B. Micrantha (Hochst.) Baill. ex Hell. This method involves combining a scion from a desired cultivar with the rootstock of a related species. The scion and rootstock must be compatible, and the graft should be done during the dormant season. Grafted plants usually grow faster and are more disease-resistant than those grown from seed or cuttings.
In conclusion, Bridelia Ndellensis Beille x B. Micrantha (Hochst.) Baill. ex Hell. can be propagated through seed, cuttings, or grafting. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to choose the method that is most suitable for the individual plant and growing conditions.
Disease Management for Bridelia ndellensis Beille x B. micrantha (Hochst.) Baill. ex Hell.
Like all plants, Bridelia ndellensis Beille x B. micrantha (Hochst.) Baill. ex Hell. is also prone to diseases that can affect its growth and production. Some of the common diseases of this plant are:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease affects leaves, stems, and fruits of the plant, causing brown or black circular spots, which might have a yellow halo around them. To manage anthracnose, the infected parts must be pruned and removed. Fungicides can also be applied to prevent further spread of the disease.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease affects the leaves of the plant, resulting in white powdery spots on the surface. To manage powdery mildew, the infected parts should be pruned and removed. Fungicides can also be used to prevent further spread of the disease.
- Bacterial leaf spot: This bacterial disease affects the leaves of the plant and causes small circular lesions on them. To manage bacterial leaf spot, the infected parts should be pruned and removed. Copper sulfate can also be used to prevent further spread of the disease.
Pest Management for Bridelia ndellensis Beille x B. micrantha (Hochst.) Baill. ex Hell.
Besides the diseases, pests can also cause harm to the plant, affecting its growth. Here are some of the common pests that can affect Bridelia ndellensis Beille x B. micrantha (Hochst.) Baill. ex Hell.:
- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to deform and curl up. To manage aphids, insecticidal soap can be sprayed on the plant.
- Mealybugs: These insects secrete a white powdery substance that covers the leaves and can cause the plant to wither. To manage mealybugs, they should be removed by hand, and insecticidal soap can be used to control them.
- Mites: These pests also suck the sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to turn yellow and brown. To manage mites, insecticidal soap or neem oil can be sprayed on the plant.
Regular inspection of the plant can help identify the diseases and pests early, and appropriate measures can be taken to manage them and prevent their spread.
