Plant Description
Combretum apiculatum Sond. subsp. leutweinii (Schinz) Exell, also known as the bushveld flame creeper, is a perennial woody climber often found in dry savannah regions of southern Africa. It belongs to the family of Combretaceae and is an evergreen plant that can grow up to 10 meters in length.
The plant produces reddish-brown bark and grows thin twigs, which are covered in small hairs. The leaves of combretum apiculatum are simple, ovate to elliptical, 1-5 cm long, small, and bright green in color.
The bushveld flame creeper blooms in spring and early summer, producing bright orange to red, tubular-shaped flowers in showy clusters at the tips of the branches. These flowers are followed by small, flattened, brownish olive fruits that split open when mature to reveal a hard seed in each segment.
Origin and Distribution
The bushveld flame creeper is native to southern Africa, particularly in the regions of Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. It is a common sight in the dry savannah vegetation biome, particularly in the areas that receive annual rainfall between 400-600 mm, making it a drought-tolerant plant species.
Common Names
The shrub is commonly referred to as the bushveld flame creeper, trumpet vine, and kuku fountain. It also has various local names around its natural range, such as !hada bolela (Tswana), umgondlo (Zulu), and ombele (Herero).
Uses of Combretum apiculatum
Traditionally, Combretum apiculatum has been used in African medicine to treat various ailments, including stomach aches, respiratory illness, and skin diseases. The plant has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and it is used to alleviate pain, as well as, reduce fever and fatigue.
The bushveld flame creeper has also been used as a herbal tea and is believed to have diuretic properties, making it a natural remedy for urinary tract infections
In addition to its medicinal uses, the bushveld flame creeper is also grown for landscape purposes, due to its attractive flowering clusters. It is a fast-growing and low maintenance plant, making it ideal for gardeners looking to achieve an exotic look without too much effort. It is also considered as a potential target for beekeeping, as its abundance of brightly colored blossoms can attract pollinators from far and wide.
However, caution must be taken when planting the bushveld flame creeper near buildings and other structures, as it is known to cause damage through its extensive root system.
Light Requirements
Combretum apiculatum Sond. subsp. leutweinii requires full sunlight exposure for optimal growth. It is a sun-loving plant that can withstand drought and high temperatures, making it suitable for hot and arid habitats. Shade or partial shade can lead to stunted growth and reduced flower production.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm to hot climates with temperatures ranging between 20-35°C. However, a minimum temperature of 10°C is necessary for the plant to survive. High humidity is not essential as the plant can tolerate dry conditions.
Soil Requirements
The plant can grow in a range of soil types, from sandy to loamy soils. Ideally, the soil should be well-draining to prevent waterlogged conditions that can lead to root rot. A slightly acidic to alkaline soil pH of 6.0-8.0 is suitable for Combretum apiculatum Sond. subsp. leutweinii. The plant prefers soils with high organic matter content and benefits from regular fertilization with balanced N-P-K fertilizers.
Cultivation of Combretum apiculatum Sond. subsp. leutweinii
Combretum apiculatum Sond. subsp. leutweinii is an evergreen plant that can grow up to 5 meters tall. This plant requires full sunlight and well-drained soil to thrive. It can be grown in pots, but it is best suited for outdoor gardens or landscapes.
The ideal planting time for Combretum apiculatum Sond. subsp. leutweinii is in the spring or early summer when the temperature is warm. It is important to dig a hole that is slightly larger than the pot in which the plant was purchased. This allows for better root growth and development.
Watering Needs
Combretum apiculatum Sond. subsp. leutweinii needs regular watering during the growing season, which is usually from spring to fall. It is important to keep the soil moist but not overly saturated. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
The frequency of watering depends on the climate and soil conditions. In hot and dry areas, the plant may require daily watering, while in cooler and more humid areas, weekly watering may be sufficient. As a general rule, the plant should be watered when the top few inches of soil are dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Combretum apiculatum Sond. subsp. leutweinii should be fertilized once a year, preferably in the spring. A slow-release fertilizer can be used to provide a steady supply of nutrients to the plant. It is important not to over-fertilize as this can lead to excessive growth and weaken the plant.
Composting is an effective way to provide nutrients to the plant. Compost can be added to the soil during planting or as a top dressing around the base of the plant. Composting also improves soil quality by increasing its moisture retention and nutrient content.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the health and shape of Combretum apiculatum Sond. subsp. leutweinii. It is best to prune the plant in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. The goal of pruning is to remove dead or damaged branches, improve air circulation, and promote new growth.
Dead and damaged branches should be pruned first, followed by any crossing or rubbing branches. It is important to use sharp and clean pruning tools to avoid damaging the plant. Care should be taken to avoid over-pruning as this can weaken the plant and reduce its ability to produce flowers.
Propagation of Combretum apiculatum Sond. subsp. leutweinii (Schinz) Exell
Combretum apiculatum Sond. subsp. leutweinii (Schinz) Exell, commonly known as the African bush willow, can be propagated through various methods. Here are some of the most effective:
Seed propagation
The African bush willow produces seeds that are small and have a relatively hard coat. These seeds can be collected directly from the plant when they are mature and then planted in a seedbed or raised in pots or containers. The seedbed or planting pots should be filled with well-drained soil and kept moist. The seeds usually take between two to four weeks to germinate, and after that, they can be transplanted to a permanent site.
Cutting propagation
Another way to propagate Combretum apiculatum Sond. subsp. leutweinii (Schinz) Exell is through cutting. The cuttings should be taken from mature wood shoots of the plant during its growing season. The cuttings should be approximately 20-30cm long and should be treated with rooting hormone to facilitate root growth. The cuttings should then be planted in a well-draining soil mix. It is important to keep the soil moist and warm. The cuttings should take about two to three months to root properly. After this, they can be transplanted to a permanent site.
Air layering
Air layering is another method to propagate the African bush willow. This involves taking a branch of the plant and making a small incision on the stem. Then, the stem is wrapped with a moist sphagnum moss and covered with a plastic bag. The moss should be kept moist, and after a few months, roots will form. Once this occurs, the branch can be removed and planted in a well-draining soil mix. Water regularly and ensure the plant is in a sunny area.
Propagation of Combretum apiculatum Sond. subsp. leutweinii (Schinz) Exell can be achieved through a variety of methods, making it an accessible plant for hobbyists, gardeners, and horticulturalists.
Disease and Pest Management for Combretum apiculatum Sond. subsp. leutweinii (Schinz) Exell
Combretum apiculatum Sond. subsp. leutweinii (Schinz) Exell is a resilient plant that can survive in various environmental conditions. However, it is still susceptible to pests and diseases that can affect its growth and overall health. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that can affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Canker - This disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the bark of the plant, creating cankers and causing it to weaken. The affected bark will turn brown or black and may start to crack. To manage canker, remove all infected plant parts and dispose of them properly. Use fungicides to control the spread of the disease.
Root Rot - Root rot is caused by fungi that attack the roots of the plant, causing them to rot and decay. Infected plants will have discolored and mushy roots. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering the plant and make sure it is growing in well-draining soil. Use fungicides to control the spread of the disease.
Pests
Thrips - These tiny insects feed on the plant's leaves, causing them to turn brown or yellow. Infested plants will have distorted leaves and may stop growing. To manage thrips, remove all affected plant parts and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
Caterpillars - Caterpillars can cause significant damage to the plant by feeding on its leaves, buds, and flowers. Infested plants will have holes in their leaves and may stop growing. To manage caterpillars, remove all affected plant parts and use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) to control their population.
Aphids - These tiny insects feed on the plant's sap, causing it to weaken and become stunted. Infested plants will have curled leaves and may stop growing. To manage aphids, remove all affected plant parts and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
Regular inspection of the plant can help identify any early signs of disease or pest infestations. Early detection and appropriate management will help maintain the health and growth of Combretum apiculatum Sond. subsp. leutweinii (Schinz) Exell.
