Overview:
Celtis rendleana G.Taylor, commonly known as the White Stinkwood or Witstinkhout, is a small tree species that belongs to the Cannabaceae family. This tree species is native to southern Africa and is primarily found in South Africa, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Eswatini. White Stinkwood is an attractive tree that can reach a height of up to 10 meters.
Appearance:
The White Stinkwood tree has a smooth grey bark that peels in strips and leaves behind an irregular pattern. Its leaves are alternate and ovate with a pointed apex and a toothed margin. The leaves have a glossy dark green color which turns yellow in autumn. The tree has cream-colored tiny flowers which are nondescript, and its fruit is a small yellow-green drupe that ripens in winter.
Common names:
The White Stinkwood is a common name given to this tree in English-speaking countries due to the unpleasant odour emitted by the bruised leaves. The tree is known as Witstinkhout in Afrikaans and Muhunguti in Shona language in Zimbabwe.
Uses:
The White Stinkwood tree has several uses. The tree's leaves, bark, and fruit are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, dysentery, and respiratory problems. The tree's timber is used for making furniture, flooring, and general carpentry due to its hardness and durability. The tree's fruit is also eaten by various bird species, making it an essential source of food for birds.
In conclusion, Celtis rendleana G.Taylor is a small tree species that has extensive traditional value and is an attractive ornamental tree. Its foliage turns yellow in autumn, making the tree an attractive landscape tree.
Growth Conditions for Celtis Rendleana G.Taylor
Light Requirements: Celtis rendleana G.Taylor prefers full sunlight to grow. It can also tolerate partial shade, but the growth rate will be slower in such conditions. Therefore, it is recommended to plant the Celtis rendleana G.Taylor in places with full sunlight exposure.
Temperature Requirements: Celtis rendleana G.Taylor will grow well in a warm to hot climate. It can tolerate temperature fluctuations between 20°C to 38°C. However, during the winter season, it can withstand temperatures -2°C, and frosty conditions due to dormancy. In areas where the temperature is consistently below freezing, it is recommended to cover the plant with a protective layer.
Soil Requirements: Celtis rendleana G.Taylor is a highly adaptable plant and can thrive in varied soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. However, the plant grows best in well-draining soils with moderate to high fertility. The plant also prefers neutral to slightly acidic soil with a pH range between 6.0 to 7.5. It is recommended that the soil is regularly checked and fertilized to maintain its nutrient level.
Water Requirements: Celtis rendleana G.Taylor will grow well in areas with moderate rainfall. Irrigation is only necessary during extremely dry periods, and it's important not to overwater the plant. The plant should be watered thoroughly once or twice a week in well-drained soil conditions.
Cultivation Methods
Celtis rendleana, commonly known as white stinkwood, is a small to medium-sized tree native to South Africa. It can grow up to 10 meters in height with a spread of 4-6 meters. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate both shade and full sun, making it a versatile plant for gardens and landscapes.
To cultivate Celtis rendleana, prepare a site with well-draining soil and partial shade. Plant in early spring or late fall, and water regularly until established. Mulching around the base can help retain moisture and keep the roots cool.
Watering Needs
Celtis rendleana requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. Water the plant deeply once a week to encourage deep root growth. However, take care not to overwater, as root rot can occur in waterlogged soil. During the winter, reduce watering and only water when the soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilization
To encourage healthy growth, fertilize Celtis rendleana in the early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the amount to apply, taking care not to over-fertilize. You can also apply a slow-release fertilizer in the fall to help prepare the plant for winter. Avoid fertilizing during the summer, as this can cause tender new growth that is susceptible to damage from frost.
Pruning
Prune Celtis rendleana during the winter months when the plant is dormant. Remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as any crossing or rubbing branches. You can also gently shape the tree by cutting back any long shoots or branches to encourage a more compact growth habit. Avoid pruning during the summer, as this can cause the tree to respond with tender new growth that is susceptible to winter frost damage.
Propagation of Celtis rendleana G.Taylor
The propagation of Celtis rendleana G.Taylor can be done by using both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual propagation
The sexual method of propagation involves the use of seeds. The seeds should be collected when they are ripe, and they should be planted immediately in a seedbed or a pot. The seeds should be covered with a layer of soil of about 1 cm, and they should be watered lightly. The seedbed or pot should be kept moist, and the seeds should be kept in a warm and shaded area until they germinate.
Asexual propagation
The asexual method of propagation includes the use of cuttings and grafting.
Cuttings
Cuttings should be taken from mature wood during the dormant season. The cuttings should be about 10-15 cm long, and they should be taken from the tips of the twigs. The lower leaves of the cuttings should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept in a warm and humid environment until they develop roots.
Grafting
Grafting can be done using either whip graft or side graft. The grafting should be done during the dormant season. A scion should be taken from a mature tree, and it should be grafted onto a suitable rootstock. The graft union should be wrapped with grafting tape and covered with a plastic bag to create a humid environment until the graft forms callus and starts to grow.
Whether propagating by sexual or asexual methods, it is essential to keep the new plants in a warm and humid environment until they become well established before moving them to their permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Celtis rendleana G.Taylor
Celtis rendleana G.Taylor is a hardy plant that grows well in many conditions. However, like any plant, it is vulnerable to diseases and pests that can affect its growth and overall health. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Celtis rendleana, as well as some ways to manage them.
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Celtis rendleana is anthracnose. This is a fungal disease that can cause brown or black spots on the leaves and stems and can eventually lead to defoliation. To manage anthracnose, start by clearing away any dead leaves or debris around the plant. Then, spray the tree with a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease.
Another disease that can affect Celtis rendleana is powdery mildew. This disease presents as a white powder-like substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, prune any affected parts of the plant and dispose of them. Then, spray the remaining plant with a fungicide designed to treat powdery mildew.
Pests
One of the most common pests that can affect Celtis rendleana is spider mites. These tiny arachnids can cause leaf drop and defoliation. To manage spider mites, start by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off. Then, use a pesticide designed to kill spider mites.
Another pest that can affect Celtis rendleana is the caterpillar of the cecropia moth. These pests can cause significant damage to the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage cecropia moth caterpillars, start by handpicking them off the plant and disposing of them. You can also use a pesticide designed to treat caterpillars.
Overall, if you notice any signs of disease or pests on your Celtis rendleana plant, it's important to act quickly to prevent the problem from spreading. Regular pruning, cleaning, and treatment with appropriate fungicides and pesticides can help keep your plant healthy and productive for years to come.
