Plant Description
Celtis kraussiana Bernh. var. stolzii Peter, commonly known as the White Stinkwood, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Cannabaceae family. The tree species is native to southern Africa, including Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and South Africa. It can grow up to 20 meters in height with a dense and round crown, typically found in woodlands, riverine forests, and cliffs.
General Appearance
The White Stinkwood is a medium to large size tree with a well-rounded, dense crown. The tree has a pale, smooth bark that peels in long strips, exposing the light grayish-brown wood underneath. The leaves are alternate, simple, ovate to elliptic, and shiny green with wavy margins. It produces showy, greenish-yellow flowers in spring, followed by a small, oval-shaped fruit that matures to yellowish-brown in the fall.
Common Names
The White Stinkwood has several common names such as Witstinkhout, Boekenhout, and Mantsau among native African tribes. In Zimbabwe, it is known as Nzungu in the Shona language, and in South Africa, it is commonly referred to as the "white" because of the pale color of the bark.
Uses
The White Stinkwood has several uses, including medicinal and cultural purposes. The bark is used as a natural remedy for fever, stomach ailments and to promote healing. The dense and durable wood is used to make furniture, flooring, and veneer. The tree is also a popular shade tree, providing shelter to birds and other wildlife. In addition, the tree is considered sacred in some African tribes and used in religious ceremonies and traditional beliefs.
Growth Conditions of Celtis kraussiana Bernh. var. stolzii Peter
Celtis kraussiana Bernh. var. stolzii Peter belongs to the family Cannabaceae and is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree. This plant is native to southern Africa, particularly in regions of Zimbabwe and Mozambique. The growth of this plant is influenced by various environmental conditions, including light, temperature, and soil.
Light Requirements
Celtis kraussiana Bernh. var. stolzii Peter prefers growing in areas with plenty of sunlight. The plant requires direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day to thrive. Therefore, it grows best in open fields, along the edges of forests, or in open woodlands. It can also grow in partially shaded areas, but growth may be stunted.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for the growth of Celtis kraussiana Bernh. var. stolzii Peter is between 15°C and 35°C. However, the plant can tolerate temperatures as low as -5°C and as high as 40°C. Extreme temperatures or sudden changes in temperature may damage the plant or affect its growth. In areas with frost, the plant may lose its leaves during winter, but it will regenerate once the weather warms up.
Soil Requirements
Celtis kraussiana Bernh. var. stolzii Peter grows well in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand. However, the soil should be well-drained, with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. The plant can grow in slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil with moderate fertility. A mixture of organic matter can be added to the soil to improve its texture and nutrient content.
In conclusion, Celtis kraussiana Bernh. var. stolzii Peter is a hardy plant that can tolerate different environmental conditions. However, for optimal growth, it requires direct sunlight, a moderate temperature range, and well-drained soil with moderate fertility.
Cultivation methods
Celtis kraussiana Bernh. var. stolzii Peter, commonly known as Stolz's white stinkwood, is a small deciduous tree that grows up to 10 meters tall under favorable conditions. It requires full sunlight for proper growth and development and prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. Plant the tree in an area with good air circulation and enough space for the roots to spread.
The ideal time for planting Celtis kraussiana Bernh. var. stolzii Peter is during the rainy season when the soil is slightly moist. Before planting, loosen the soil to a depth of at least 30cm and mix it with an organic compound like compost or manure. This will provide essential nutrients to the plant as it grows.
Watering Needs
Stolz's white stinkwood requires regular watering, especially during its early growth stages. Water the tree deeply at least twice a week, saturating the soil to a depth of about 20cm. As the tree grows, you can reduce the frequency of watering to once a week. However, make sure the soil remains moist at all times. Avoid over-watering the tree to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
To boost growth, apply a balanced fertilizer to Celtis kraussiana Bernh. var. stolzii Peter during the growing season. Use a slow-release fertilizer with a nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium (NPK) ratio of 10-10-10. Apply the fertilizer when the tree starts to produce new leaves, and water it in thoroughly.
Avoid applying too much fertilizer, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruit production. Overfertilizing can also cause root burn, which can damage the tree's roots and inhibit nutrient absorption.
Pruning
Prune Celtis kraussiana Bernh. var. stolzii Peter during its dormant season to promote healthy growth and remove any damaged or diseased branches. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to cut off any unwanted growth near the base of the tree, and shape the tree according to your desired form.
When pruning, avoid cutting off more than 25% of the tree's canopy, as this can stress the tree and reduce fruit production. Also, avoid pruning during the rainy season, as this can lead to fungal infections and other diseases.
Propagation of Celtis kraussiana Bernh. var. stolzii Peter
Celtis kraussiana Bernh. var. stolzii Peter, also known as the Stolz's white stinkwood, can be propagated through several methods. These include seed propagation, cutting propagation, and air layering.
Seed Propagation
Propagation through seeds is possible but may take a longer time to grow as the germination rate of the seeds is low. The seeds need to be collected from ripe fruits, cleaned, and sowed in well-draining soil. The planting medium must be kept consistently moist, and it may take up to three months for the seeds to germinate. Seed propagation is an easy method and does not require any special skill.
Cutting Propagation
This method involves rooting stem cuttings from a mature plant. The cuttings should be taken from the current year's growth, and the leaves on the lower part of the stem should be removed. The cutting should be dipped in a rooting hormone to stimulate rooting, and then planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a humid environment, and should root within 4-6 weeks.
Air Layering
Air layering is another propagation method that can be used for Celtis kraussiana Bernh. var. stolzii Peter. It involves making a small cut in the bark of a mature stem and rooting it while it is still attached to the parent plant. A rooting hormone is applied to the cut surface, and the area is then wrapped in moist sphagnum moss and plastic wrap to maintain moisture. It takes around a month for the roots to form, and the newly rooted plant can then be cut off from the parent plant and transplanted.
Disease and Pest Management for Celtis Kraussiana Bernh. Var. Stolzii Peter
Celtis kraussiana Bernh. var. stolzii Peter, also known as African hackberry, is a small, deciduous tree that is native to southern Africa. It is generally hardy and pest-resistant, but can occasionally be affected by diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that might afflict the plant and suggestions for how to manage them.
Diseases
1. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can affect the leaves and stems of Celtis kraussiana. It presents as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To manage this disease, ensure adequate air circulation and avoid wetting the foliage when watering. Fungicidal sprays may also be necessary.
2. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that appears as small, dark circular or irregular-shaped spots on infected leaves. It can cause defoliation and stunt growth. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves and avoid wetting the foliage when watering. Fungicidal sprays may also be necessary.
3. Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of plants, causing them to rot and die. It is caused by overly wet soil and poor drainage. To manage this disease, ensure proper drainage and watering practices. If the plant is severely infected, it may need to be removed and destroyed.
Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of plants, suck the juices from the leaves, and stunt growth. They can be identified by their pear-shaped body and a pair of cornicles on their hind end. To manage this pest, wash them off the foliage with a strong spray of water or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
2. Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, immobile pests that attach themselves to the stems or leaves of the plant. They create a hard, protective covering that can be difficult to remove. Scale insects feed on the sap of plants and excrete a sticky substance, known as honeydew, that attracts other pests. To manage this pest, prune off heavily infested branches or use a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to control outbreaks.
3. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that suck the sap from leaves, causing them to dry out and turn yellow. They are usually identified by the presence of fine webbing on the foliage. To manage this pest, wash them off with a strong spray of water and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil regularly.
By monitoring your Celtis kraussiana Bernh. var. stolzii Peter for signs of disease and pest activity, you can prevent serious damage and keep your plant healthy and beautiful.
