Origin
Buchnerodendron stipulatum (Oliv.) Bullock, commonly known as the Cameroon limba, is a tree species that is native to the tropical rainforests of Cameroon and Nigeria in West Africa.
Common Names
Aside from Cameron limba, Buchnerodendron stipulatum also goes by the following common names: African limba, kaku, frake, eyong, framire, and bari.
Uses
This tree species is highly valued for its quality timber, which is used for furniture, flooring, paneling, and other wooden products. The wood is known for its durability, strength, and resistance to decay, making it an excellent material for outdoor use. Additionally, the bark and leaves of Buchnerodendron stipulatum have been traditionally used for medicinal purposes in Africa.
General Appearance
Buchnerodendron stipulatum is a large tree species that can reach up to 60 meters in height and 2.5 meters in diameter. It has a straight trunk and a rounded canopy of long, spreading branches. The bark is pale grey and smooth when young, but becomes rough and furrowed with age. The leaves are large, pinnately compound, and glossy dark green. The tree produces small, white flowers that are followed by woody, cylindrical fruits that split open to release winged seeds.
Light Requirements
Buchnerodendron stipulatum (Oliv.) Bullock is a shade-loving plant that thrives in low to medium light conditions. It cannot grow under direct sunlight as it can damage the leaves and cause stunted growth. It needs partial to full shade to grow, making it an ideal indoor plant.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature for Buchnerodendron stipulatum (Oliv.) Bullock growth ranges between 18°C to 24°C. The plant is susceptible to cold drafts and cannot survive at temperatures below 13°C. Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can cause damage to the leaves and affect the overall plant growth.
Soil Requirements
Buchnerodendron stipulatum (Oliv.) Bullock prefers a well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH ranges between 5.5 to 6.5. A fertile soil mix containing sand, peat moss, and perlite is an excellent growing medium. The plant does not prefer soggy soil; ensure the soil is moist but never waterlogged.
Cultivation Methods
Buchnerodendron stipulatum, also known as the African Walnut, is a tropical plant that flourishes in warm, humid environments. The plant prefers well-draining, organically rich soil that is slightly acidic and can grow in either partially shaded or fully shaded areas. When planting, be sure to dig a hole three times larger than the root ball and add compost or manure to enrich the soil.
Propagation can be done through seed germination or stem cuttings. Seed germination can take up to six months, so be patient when starting from scratch. Stem cuttings can be taken from the parent plant and propagated in a mixture of sand and soil in a warm, humid environment.
Watering Needs
Ensure that the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged. Buchnerodendron stipulatum prefers regular watering but it is essential not to overwater to avoid root rot. Watering once or twice weekly, depending on the environmental conditions and humidity, should be sufficient.
Fertilization
Fertilizers rich in nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus are essential for the healthy growth of Buchnerodendron stipulatum plants. The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with an all-purpose liquid fertilizer or a slow-release fertilizer. A balanced formula of 10-10-10 is ideal for the plant’s growth process.
Pruning
Pruning is not a necessary requirement for Buchnerodendron stipulatum. However, if the plant becomes too large and bushy, it may need to be trimmed to maintain a desired size or shape. It is recommended to trim the plant during the dormant season when the plant is not actively growing to prevent shock or damage.
Propagation of Buchnerodendron stipulatum (Oliv.) Bullock
Buchnerodendron stipulatum (Oliv.) Bullock, commonly known as the Savannah Oak, is a West African tree species with ornamental value due to its showy and fragrant flowers. Propagation of this species can be achieved through various methods.
Seed Propagation
The Savannah Oak can be propagated via seeds. The seeds are collected from mature fruits and are sown in pots filled with a soil mixture comprising equal parts of loam and river sand. The pots are then placed in a shade house and watered regularly. The seeds should germinate within 2-3 weeks, and the resulting seedlings can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the field.
Cuttings Propagation
Another propagation method for the Savannah Oak is through cuttings. Semi-hardwood cuttings of the tree are taken from the parent plant during the growing season, and the lower leaves are removed. The cuttings are then dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a potting mixture consisting of equal parts of sand and peat. The planting medium is then irrigated and covered with a clear plastic bag to create a humid environment. The cuttings should root within four to six weeks, and the resulting seedlings can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the field.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another propagation method used for the Savannah Oak. A section of the parent plant bark is removed, and the wound is treated with a rooting hormone. The exposed area is then wrapped with moist sphagnum moss, and the area is enclosed in plastic wrap. The moss is kept moist, and roots should form within a few months. Once roots have formed, the new plant can be removed and transplanted.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting can also be used as a propagation method for the Savannah Oak. In this method, a scion from the preferred cultivar is grafted onto a seedling rootstock. The graft union is then wrapped with grafting tape to protect and secure the connection. The grafted plant is then placed in a mist environment until the graft union is healed, and the plant can be transplanted into the field.
Disease and Pest Management for Buchnerodendron stipulatum (Oliv.) Bullock
Buchnerodendron stipulatum (Oliv.) Bullock, commonly known as the African Pear, is a relatively disease-resistant plant. However, it is not entirely immune to pests and diseases, and it requires certain measures to ensure optimal health and growth.
Common Diseases
The most common disease affecting Buchnerodendron stipulatum is fungal leaf spot. This disease is characterized by small, circular or irregularly shaped spots on the leaves, which can grow and merge, leading to defoliation and stunted growth. Leaf spot is more likely to occur during periods of high humidity and rainfall, and it can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and providing good air circulation. If leaf spot does occur, affected leaves should be quickly removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease. Fungicides can also be applied to prevent or control leaf spot, but it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and avoid overuse.
Common Pests
Buchnerodendron stipulatum is relatively resistant to most pests. However, some insects can still be a problem, including mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. Mealybugs and scale insects are sap-sucking insects that can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves, as well as stunted growth. Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the underside of leaves, causing whitish discoloration and webbing. These pests can be controlled by regular inspection, handpicking, and use of insecticidal soaps or oils.
In addition to insects, Buchnerodendron stipulatum can also be susceptible to some larger pests, such as rodents and deer. To prevent damage from larger animals, wire mesh or fencing can be used to protect the plant.
Overall, the best way to prevent disease and pest problems in Buchnerodendron stipulatum is to maintain good cultural practices, such as proper watering and fertilization, as well as regular inspection and prompt removal of any damaged or diseased plant material.
