Overview
Celtis mildbraedii Engl. is a deciduous tree species belonging to the Ulmaceae family. It is native to Africa, particularly in countries such as Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, and Nigeria.
Common Names
This plant goes by a variety of common names such as White-stem hackberry, whiteman's-tea, and African hackberry.
Appearance
The Celtis mildbraedii Engl. tree can grow up to 20 meters in height and has a straight trunk with a diameter of about 80 cm. Its roots extend deep into the soil, giving it stability, and it has a wide and rounded crown. The bark of the tree is smooth and grayish-white in color, while its leaves are simple, alternate, and serrated along the edges, with a glossy surface. The petioles are reddish-brown, while the young branches are hairy and greenish, becoming reddish-brown as they age. The flowers are small but fragrant and are produced in clusters. The fruits are small and fleshy, oblong in shape and yellowish-green when young, eventually turning dark purple as they mature.
Uses
Celtis mildbraedii Engl. has several medicinal properties and has been traditionally used in African medicine for treating respiratory infections, fever, coughs, and gastrointestinal disorders. The bark, leaves, and fruits of the plant have been found to have antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. The wood is hard and durable, making it useful in the construction of houses, furniture, and tools.
Light Requirements
Celtis mildbraedii requires bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade, but too little light will result in slow growth and sparse foliage.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures ranging from 21 to 24°C during the day and 18 to 20°C at night. Temperatures below 10°C can cause damage to the foliage and slow down growth. This makes Celtis mildbraedii better suited to subtropical and tropical climates.
Soil Requirements
Celtis mildbraedii grows well in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The soil should be well-draining, as wet conditions can lead to root rot. The pH level of the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.5. Adding organic matter to the soil can improve its fertility and structure, enabling better growth of the plant.
Cultivation
Celtis mildbraedii Engl. is a low-maintenance plant and easy to grow, making it a great choice for beginners or those who don't have a lot of time to devote to their garden. The plant thrives in well-draining soil, so make sure the area where you're planting it has good drainage. It also prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Watering Needs
Celtis mildbraedii Engl. should be watered regularly but not overwatered. Once established, the plant is drought-tolerant and can survive with less frequent watering. Ensure that the soil around the plant stays moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
Fertilization
Celtis mildbraedii Engl. doesn't require much fertilization, but you can choose to fertilize the plant during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Fertilizing the plant once or twice a year, ideally in spring, can enhance its growth rate. Make sure not to over-fertilize and always follow the instructions on the package.
Pruning
Pruning Celtis mildbraedii Engl. is generally not necessary as it grows into a shrub or small tree with a natural shape. However, if you want to shape or encourage bushier growth, prune the plant during the dormant season. Remove any dead or diseased branches and cut back any overgrowth, making sure to avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time. Be careful to prune it gently to not cause severe damage to the plant.
Propagation of Celtis mildbraedii Engl.
Celtis mildbraedii Engl., also known as the African hackberry, is a small tree that is native to Africa. It is known for its attractive, dark green leaves and small, edible fruits. Propagating Celtis mildbraedii can be done through several methods.
Seed Propagation
The easiest way to propagate Celtis mildbraedii is through seed propagation. The seeds should be harvested from ripe fruits and cleaned properly. After removing the flesh, the seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours and then sown in nursery bags or seed trays filled with well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be buried at a depth of about twice their size and kept moist. Germination usually occurs within four weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted after two months of growth.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings propagation is another method for propagating Celtis mildbraedii. It involves cutting a stem of the tree and rooting it in moist soil. Cuttings should be taken from mature, healthy plants during the growing season and treated with rooting hormone. They should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist. To improve the chances of success, cuttings should be kept in a warm and humid environment. Roots will usually start to form within four weeks.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is a technique used for propagating Celtis mildbraedii by encouraging roots to form on a stem while it is still attached to the parent plant. This method is suitable for slightly woody stems. A section of the stem is wrapped with moist sphagnum moss and covered with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. Adventitious roots should start forming within one to two months, at which point the stem can be cut off and planted in soil.
Overall, propagating Celtis mildbraedii is relatively easy. It can be done through seed propagation, cuttings propagation, or air layering. Each method has its pros and cons, and the choice of propagation method should be based on the experience and preference of the gardener.
Disease and Pest Management for Celtis mildbraedii Engl. Plant
Celtis mildbraedii Engl., commonly referred to as White Stinkwood, is an indigenous tree species known for its high durability and resistance to environmental challenges. Despite its resilience, this tree is not immune to pests and diseases that can affect its growth and development.
Common Diseases of Celtis mildbraedii Engl.
The most common diseases that might affect Celtis mildbraedii Engl. include anthracnose, root rot, and powdery mildew. Anthracnose is a fungal infection that causes twig dieback and leaf spots. Root rot is caused by a water mold called Phytophthora that leads to the decay of the root system. Powdery mildew is a fungal infection that affects the leaves, causing them to turn white and dry.
To manage these diseases, one approach is to apply chemical fungicides that are effective in controlling fungal growth. Another useful strategy is to increase air circulation and promote good drainage around the base of the plant, which helps to prevent moisture accumulation and fungal growth. Additionally, proper pruning techniques can help to remove infected parts of the plant and control the spread of the disease.
Common Pests of Celtis mildbraedii Engl.
The common pests that might affect Celtis mildbraedii Engl. include scales, aphids, and whiteflies. Scales are small insects that suck plant sap and secrete honeydew, which attracts sooty mold and causes stunted growth. Aphids are tiny insects that feed on the sap of new growth, causing leaves to curl and turn yellow. Whiteflies are small flies that suck plant sap, causing yellowing of leaves and wilting.
To manage these pests, one approach is to introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings that feed on the pests. Additionally, horticultural oils and insecticidal soaps can be applied to control pest populations. Another effective strategy is to maintain proper plant health by providing adequate water, fertilizer, and pruning, which helps to reduce pest infestations.
Overall, managing pests and diseases in Celtis mildbraedii Engl. requires an integrated approach that includes proper plant maintenance, regular monitoring, and the use of effective control techniques.
