Description
Cleistopholis albida, also known as the white sausage tree, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Bignoniaceae family. This flowering tree is native to tropical Africa, particularly in Cameroon, Gabon, and Nigeria.
General Appearance
The white sausage tree can reach up to 25 meters in height and 60 centimeters in diameter. The tree's bark has a smooth texture that is grayish-brown or yellowish-brown in color. Its leaves are compound and can measure up to 30 centimeters long. The flowers of the white sausage tree are large and bell-shaped, with colors ranging from cream to white. Its fruits are sausage-shaped and can grow up to 60 centimeters long, hence its name.
Common Names
Cleistopholis albida is commonly known as the white sausage tree, African sausage tree, and African tulip tree. In Nigeria, it is called "Opepe" in Yoruba and "Mpuatu" in Bini.
Uses
The white sausage tree has many uses, particularly in traditional medicine and woodworking. In traditional medicine, the bark, leaves, and stem of the tree are used to treat various ailments such as malaria, fever, and gastrointestinal disorders. The tree's bark contains alkaloids that possess anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to alleviate pain. In woodworking, the tree's wood is highly durable and resistant to insect attacks, making it ideal for furniture, flooring, and construction.
Light Requirements
Cleistopholis albida thrives in full to partial sunlight. It requires enough exposure to sunlight to undergo photosynthesis. The plant grows healthily under bright and indirect light, but it must be protected from direct sunlight as it may damage the foliage.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for Cleistopholis albida growth is between 18°C to 28°C. It is highly sensitive to frost and cannot withstand temperatures below 0°C. In areas where the temperature falls below the ideal range, the plant can survive, but growth is usually slow, and the plant may not flower.
Soil Requirements
Cleistopholis albida prefers well-draining soils rich in organic matter. The soils must be moderately fertile with a pH range of neutral to slightly acidic. The plant cannot tolerate waterlogged soils as it may lead to root rot.
The use of organic fertilizers can provide additional nutrients to the plant to enhance growth and development. Mulching is also crucial for maintaining moisture levels in the soil, suppressing weed growth, and providing organic matter to the soil.
Cultivation Methods for Cleistopholis Albida
The Cleistopholis Albida plant is a tropical evergreen tree. It enjoys a warm and humid climate. If you want to cultivate this plant, it is recommended to grow it in a container since it is not frost-tolerant.
The tree requires well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter. It can be grown outdoors in tropical climates or inside in pots in cooler climates. The seedlings should be planted in a pit that's at least 50 cm wide and 50 cm deep, filled with well-drained soil mixed with compost. Lightly cover the roots to avoid exposure to the sun.
Watering Needs for Cleistopholis Albida
The Cleistopholis Albida plant requires consistent watering from spring through fall which reduces to a minimum during the winter months. Water requirements are high as it grows, picking up pace during the warmer months of the year. Watering is necessary during any dry spells.
Ensure not to overwater since this can lead to root rot. The plant should be watered early in the morning and late in the afternoon to avoid waterlogging the roots.
Fertilization for Cleistopholis Albida
It is also recommended to apply a slow-release balanced fertilizer in early spring. This is the optimal time for the plant to gain optimum nutrients to bloom beautifully. Foliar feeding using a diluted balanced fertilizer is possible during the summer season.
The Cleistopholis Albida plant should not be fed during the winter season since it is dormant and not actively growing.
Pruning for Cleistopholis Albida
Pruning can be done to give a nice shape to the tree and to remove any damaged or diseased branches. It is recommended to prune after the fruiting season, which is generally in autumn.
If the tree is grown indoors, pruning can be done during the summer season. Cutting the branch ends will encourage the growth of new branches. You should remove weak and dead branches to encourage the growth of new and healthy limbs.
Propagation of Cleistopholis albida
Cleistopholis albida can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. Both methods require specific conditions to enhance the chances of successful propagation.
Seed Propagation
When propagating Cleistopholis albida from seeds, it is recommended to use fresh seeds collected from the plant. The seeds need to be cleaned and soaked in warm water for 24 hours to increase germination rates.
After soaking, the seeds are planted in pots or seedling trays filled with well-draining soil and placed in a warm and humid environment, preferably with temperatures ranging between 25-30°C. It is essential to keep the soil evenly moist throughout the germination period, which could take anywhere from 2-4 weeks.
Once the seedlings reach 3-4 inches, they can be transplanted to individual pots and then transferred to their permanent location when they reach one year old.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is another common method used to propagate Cleistopholis albida. The best time to take cuttings is during the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. It is recommended to take cuttings that are between 6-8 inches long and contain at least 2-3 nodes.
The cuttings are dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-drained potting mix. The pot is placed in a shaded area, and daily misting is essential to keep the cuttings hydrated. It is also recommended to cover the pot with a transparent plastic bag to maintain high humidity levels.
The rooting process takes approximately 4-6 weeks, after which, the rooted cuttings can be transferred to individual pots or planted in their permanent location if preferred.
Disease and Pest Management for Cleistopholis albida (Engl.) Engl. & Diels
Cleistopholis albida (Engl.) Engl. & Diels is a popular ornamental tree species native to tropical regions, known for its white flowers and aromatic fruits. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pests that can cause damage or even death if left uncontrolled. In this article, we will discuss the common diseases and pests that affect Cleistopholis albida and suggest ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Cleistopholis albida is vulnerable to various diseases caused by fungi, bacteria, and viruses that can weaken or kill the plant. One of the most common diseases is anthracnose, caused by the fungus Colletotrichum, which attacks the leaves and twigs, causing dark blotches and curling. To manage anthracnose, prune and destroy infected parts, and avoid overcrowding and overwatering, which promote the spread of the fungus.
Another disease that affects Cleistopholis albida is powdery mildew, caused by the fungi Erysiphe and Oidium, which produce a white powdery growth on the leaves and flowers, reducing photosynthesis and inhibiting growth. To manage powdery mildew, spray affected leaves with a mixture of water and baking soda or use a commercial fungicide. Proper air circulation and soil drainage can also help prevent powdery mildew.
Common Pests
Cleistopholis albida is also prone to insect pests that can suck the sap and nutrients from the plant, causing yellowing, wilting, and stunting. One of the most common pests is the mealybug, a small white soft-bodied insect that secretes a powdery wax and feeds on the leaves and bark. To manage mealybugs, wash the plant with soapy water or rubbing alcohol, or use a systemic insecticide.
The Cleistopholis albida tree is also vulnerable to scale insects, such as the magnolia scale, which produce a hard shell that covers and protects their bodies and eggs. The scale insects suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and defoliation. To control scale insects, prune and destroy infested parts, use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings.
Conclusion
Managing diseases and pests in Cleistopholis albida requires a combination of preventive measures, such as proper pruning, watering, and fertilization, and reactive measures like spraying or using insecticides when infestations occur. By being vigilant and taking action early, you can keep Cleistopholis albida healthy and thriving.
