Plant Description
Casearia thonneri De Wild. is a small to medium-sized tree, commonly growing up to 25 meters tall. The tree has a narrow and dense crown, with a smooth, grey bark that tends to crack with age.
Origin and Habitat
Casearia thonneri De Wild. is native to tropical Africa and is found in various habitats such as rainforests, swampy areas, and riverbanks. It can be found in countries including Nigeria, Cameroon, Madagascar, and Congo.
Common Names
The plant is referred to by different names across Africa and beyond. In Nigeria, it is called "owo" in Yoruba and "Ufulu" in Igbo. In Cameroon, it is known as "Mutanjo" in Meta and "Likango" in Douala. The plant is also known as "Bois gazelle" in Madagascar and "Umukono" in Uganda.
Uses
Casearia thonneri De Wild. has several traditional medicinal uses across its native regions. The bark, leaves, and roots of the plant have been used to treat various ailments such as fever, cough, sore throat, and skin infections. The plant extract also possesses antimalarial properties and has been used in the preparation of herbal remedies in some African countries.
Beyond its medicinal value, the wood of the plant has been used for various purposes. It is used in the construction of houses, making furniture, and crafting musical instruments such as drums. The plant is also a food source for some animals like the bush pig.
Light Requirements
Casearia thonneri De Wild. is a shade-loving plant and thrives well under moderate or partial shade conditions. It grows well under the canopy of taller surrounding trees or in shaded areas, but requires some access to sunlight for photosynthesis. Exposing the plant to direct sunlight for prolonged periods can cause the leaves to wither and stress the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires a warm and humid climate for growth. The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 20°C and 28°C. Temperatures below 15°C or above 32°C can negatively impact growth and development. This plant may not tolerate frost, and freezing temperatures can kill young plants.
Soil Requirements
Casearia thonneri De Wild. grows well in moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH range between 5.5 and 6.5. The plant is adapted to nutrient-poor soils and can thrive in sandy or clay soils. However, it requires soil with good water-holding capacity as it cannot tolerate drought. Overwatering may lead to root rot, and the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between watering sessions.
Cultivation Methods
Casearia thonneri De Wild. is a plant that prefers warm and humid climates, making it an excellent choice for cultivation in tropical regions.
It can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, and air layering, although the latter is the most viable and recommended method for this plant.
The plant thrives well in well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5, making it essential to ensure the soil is well-drained to avoid waterlogging.
Watering Needs
Casearia thonneri De Wild. requires regular watering to maintain optimal growth.
Watering should be done when the top layer of soil feels dry, but one needs to ensure that the soil does not get waterlogged.
During the dry season, it is essential to water the plant more frequently.
Fertilization
Casearia thonneri De Wild. requires fertilization to maintain healthy growth.
When planting, it is essential to incorporate organic matter, such as well-decomposed manure, into the soil.
Regular fertilization should be done every two to three months, using a balanced fertilizer rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary for maintaining the shape and overall health of the Casearia thonneri De Wild. plant.
The best time to carry out pruning is during the early stages of the rainy season when the plant is actively growing.
It is recommended to remove diseased and damaged branches, as well as overcrowded and crossing branches that impede airflow and light penetration.
When pruning, it is essential to use sterile pruning tools to avoid the spread of diseases to the plant.
Propagation of Casearia thonneri De Wild.
Propagation of Casearia thonneri De Wild. can be done through various methods. The most common methods include seeds, stem cuttings, and air layering.
Seeds
Casearia thonneri De Wild. can be propagated from seeds. The seeds are collected from the plant when they are ripe and sowed in a seedbed. The seedbed should be prepared by mixing soil and organic matter in equal parts. The seeds are sown thinly and covered with a thin layer of soil. Watering is done regularly until the seeds germinate. When the seedlings are big enough to handle, they can be transplanted to individual pots.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Casearia thonneri De Wild. The stem cuttings should be taken from healthy and disease-free plants. A cutting of about 10-15 cm in length should be taken from the plant. The leaves on the lower part of the cutting should be removed, leaving a few leaves at the top. The stem cutting should be dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in a pot that is filled with a mixture of sand and peat moss. The pot should be covered with a plastic bag and placed in a shady spot. Watering should be done sparingly until the cutting has rooted.
Air Layering
Air layering is another method used to propagate Casearia thonneri De Wild. This involves making a small incision on the stem of the plant and inserting a toothpick or small stick to keep it open. Moss is then wrapped around the wounded area of the stem and kept moist. The moss should be covered with plastic wrap to keep it moist. After a few weeks, roots will form on the stem. The stem can then be cut off and planted in a pot.
Regardless of the method used, it is important to keep the plants in a warm and humid environment, out of direct sunlight until they have established themselves.
Disease Management
Casearia thonneri De Wild. is susceptible to several diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant. These diseases include:
- Anthracnose: This disease causes lesions on leaves, twigs, and fruits of the plant, which can weaken and eventually kill the plant. It is caused by a fungus and can be managed by removing infected plant parts, applying fungicides, and improving air circulation around the plant.
- Leaf spot: This disease causes circular lesions on leaves, which can cause defoliation and weaken the plant. It is caused by a fungus and can be managed by removing infected plant parts, applying fungicides, and improving air circulation around the plant.
- Powdery mildew: This disease causes a white powdery substance on leaves, which can weaken the plant and reduce photosynthesis. It is caused by a fungus and can be managed by improving air circulation around the plant, applying fungicides, and removing infected plant parts.
Pest Management
Casearia thonneri De Wild. is also susceptible to several pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. These pests include:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck sap from leaves, causing yellowing and curling of leaves. They can be managed by removing them from the plant manually or applying insecticides.
- Spider mites: These tiny insects can cause yellowing and mottling of leaves, reducing the plant's ability to photosynthesize. They can be managed by improving humidity around the plant and applying insecticides.
- Scale insects: These small insects can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves and can be difficult to manage. They can be managed by applying insecticides and removing infected plant parts.
