Overview
Cassine pubescens (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Kuntze, commonly known as the African cassine or African stinkwood, is a small tree or shrub that belongs to the family Celastraceae. The plant is native to southern Africa, where it grows in various habitats such as forests, woodlands, and savannas. With its ornamental value and medicinal properties, Cassine pubescens has been widely used by indigenous communities for various purposes.Appearance
Cassine pubescens is a small evergreen tree or shrub that grows up to 10 meters in height. The plant has a dense, bushy crown and a grey-brown trunk that is covered with small, rough bark. The leaves of Cassine pubescens are lance-shaped, dark green, and shiny, with a hairy, velvety underside. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow, and they are followed by round, bright red fruits that contain a single seed.Common Names
The plant Cassine pubescens has several common names, depending on the region. In South Africa, it is commonly known as African cassine, African stinkwood, or umNandi. In Zimbabwe, it is called mukarati or umkangu, while in Mozambique, it is known as muringa.Uses
Cassine pubescens has several uses in traditional medicine, where it is used to treat various ailments such as stomach pains, flu, and respiratory infections. The plant's bark and roots have antipyretic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties. The leaves are used to make a tea that is believed to have a calming effect. The wood of Cassine pubescens is hard, heavy, and durable, and it is used for various purposes such as furniture, tool handles, and construction. The wood has a characteristic odor that is reminiscent of camphor, which is why it is sometimes called African stinkwood. In addition to its medicinal and economic values, Cassine pubescens is also an ornamental plant that is cultivated for its attractive foliage and flowers. The plant is sometimes used in landscaping as a hedge or ornamental tree.Light Requirements
Cassine pubescens typically grows in areas where it can receive partial shade to full sunlight. This plant species requires a good amount of sunlight for proper growth and development. When grown in partial shade, it should receive at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. But if grown in full sunlight, it should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
Cassine pubescens is well adapted to thrive in temperatures ranging between 20°C and 30°C. It can tolerate high temperatures and hot summer months, but it is not frost-tolerant. Therefore, the minimum temperature for growing this plant is 10°C. If the temperature drops below this level, the plant may suffer from frost damage, stunted growth, or even death.
Soil Requirements
The species prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soils with a pH ranging between 5.0 to 6.5. The plant grows best in soils rich in organic matter, although it can tolerate soils with low organic matter content. Soil structure is also important for proper growth, and it should be able to hold moisture and nutrients. Cassine pubescens can grow in sandy, loamy, or clayey soils, as long as the soil is well-draining and does not become waterlogged for extended periods.
Cultivation Methods for Cassine pubescens (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Kuntze Plant
Cassine pubescens (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Kuntze, also known as the African cassine or wild coffee, can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings. It thrives in well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.0 to 7.0. It prefers partial to full sun exposure and can grow up to 15 meters in height. As a slow-growing plant, it requires minimal pruning and frequent watering to establish roots.
Watering Needs for Cassine pubescens (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Kuntze Plant
Cassine pubescens (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Kuntze plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. Water the plant once a week during the growing season, especially in the summer. During the winter, reduce watering frequency to prevent waterlogging and promote healthy root development. Before watering, ensure that the soil is dry to the touch, as the plant is susceptible to root rot if exposed to too much water.
Fertilization for Cassine pubescens (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Kuntze Plant
Fertilize Cassine pubescens (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Kuntze plant with a slow-release, well-balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers that promote foliage growth, as it can negatively impact fruiting. You can add organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to the soil to provide additional nutrients. However, avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to root burn and other issues.
Pruning for Cassine pubescens (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Kuntze Plant
Cassine pubescens (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Kuntze requires minimal pruning, mainly to maintain its shape and size. Prune any overgrown or damaged branches during the dormant period in late winter or early spring. Also, remove any dead or diseased branches to promote healthy growth. You can also prune the plant to encourage more branching and fruiting. However, avoid excessive pruning, as it can weaken the plant and reduce its overall fruiting potential.
Propagation of Cassine pubescens (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Kuntze
Cassine pubescens is a shrub or small tree that is native to Southern Africa. It is commonly known as the "lekkerbreek" due to its tasty bark and is used in traditional medicine for its various medicinal properties. Propagation of Cassine pubescens can be done through three methods: seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Propagation through Seeds
The seeds of Cassine pubescens need to be collected from mature fruits. The collected seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat. After that, sow the seeds in a pot or seedbed. The soil should be moist, well-drained, and fertile. Keep the pot in a shaded area until germination occurs. Germination can take 3-4 weeks. After germination, the seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots or to the field.
Propagation through Cuttings
Cuttings from semi-hardwood or hardwood stems are appropriate for propagation through cuttings. Collect 15-20cm cuttings from healthy plants during the dormant season. The cuttings should have at least two nodes. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cuttings in rooting hormone powder. Insert the cuttings in well-draining, fertile soil mix and water well. Keep the cuttings in a shaded area and make sure to maintain soil moisture. The cuttings can take 6-8 weeks to root.
Propagation through Layering
Cassine pubescens can also be propagated through a layering method. Choose a healthy and low-hanging branch for this process. Create a shallow wound at the underside of the branch and apply rooting hormone powder. Cover the wound with moist soil and secure it with a wire or stake. After a few weeks, roots will start to form. Cut the branch from the mother plant and transplant the new plant to a new location.
Propagation of Cassine pubescens is relatively easy and can be done through seeds, cuttings, or layering. It is a worthwhile plant to propagate as it has a variety of uses and benefits.
Disease Management
Cassine pubescens, commonly known as the African lemonwood tree, is relatively resistant to diseases. However, certain environmental stressors such as poor soil quality, drought, and overcrowding can make the plant susceptible to various diseases.
One of the common diseases that affect the African lemonwood tree is root rot caused by fungi such as Pythium and Phytophthora. To manage this disease, ensure proper drainage in the planting site and avoid overwatering the plant. Additionally, applying fungicide treatments can help to prevent or reduce the severity of the disease.
Another disease that affects the plant is leaf spot, caused by the fungi Cercospora and Mycosphaerella. Symptoms of this disease include small, dark spots on the leaves that gradually enlarge and cause leaf yellowing and premature leaf drop. To manage this disease, prune infected leaves and treat the plant with fungicides designed to control Cercospora and Mycosphaerella fungi.
Pest Management
The African lemonwood tree is also relatively pest-resistant, but certain pests can cause significant damage to the plant if left unchecked. The common pests that affect the plant include spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs.
Spider mites are small, sap-sucking insects that leave tell-tale signs of white speckling on the leaves. To manage spider mites, regularly inspect the plant for infestations and control them by applying miticide treatments.
Scale insects and mealybugs are also sap-sucking pests that can cause stunted growth and leave a sticky residue on the leaves. To manage these pests, use insecticidal soaps to remove them from the plant or treat with systemic insecticides to prevent future infestations.
Regular monitoring and prompt action can help prevent the severe infestation of pests and diseases on the African lemonwood tree. Proper sanitation, such as removing infected plant debris and keeping the planting site clean, can help reduce the likelihood of disease and pest incidence.
