Overview of Combretum arbuscula Engl. & Diels
Combretum arbuscula Engl. & Diels, also known as the forest bushwillow, is a species of plant in the Combretaceae family. It is a small tree or shrub that is endemic to Eastern Africa, particularly in Kenya and Tanzania.
Description of Combretum arbuscula Engl. & Diels
Combretum arbuscula has a distinct appearance characterized by its multi-stemmed form and thin, grey-brown bark that peels off in small circular scales. Its leaves are ovate to elliptic in shape, with a glossy, dark green upper surface and a paler underside. The plant produces flowers in dense, terminal spikes that range in color from pale pink to red or orange. Its fruit is a three-winged capsule that contains small, angular seeds.
Common Names of Combretum arbuscula Engl. & Diels
Combretum arbuscula is commonly known by several names in different regions it grows. In Kenya, it is referred to as Mchembere, while in Tanzania, it is called Kinkonde. In English, it is often referred to as the forest bushwillow.
Uses of Combretum arbuscula Engl. & Diels
Combretum arbuscula has several uses in traditional medicine and local communities. Its bark and roots are used to treat various ailments such as malaria, fever, and coughs. The plant's leaves are sometimes used as a vegetable, and its fruit is a valuable source of food for local wildlife. Additionally, Combretum arbuscula is sometimes cultivated as an ornamental plant and used in landscaping due to its attractive flowers and foliage.
Light Requirements
Combretum arbuscula is a plant that requires a lot of sunlight to grow and thrive. It performs best in areas that receive full sun exposure, at least 6-8 hours a day. When planted in shaded areas, the plant tends to grow taller and lean towards the light.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is well adapted to warm tropical climates and can tolerate high temperature and humidity levels. The minimum temperature required for its growth is around 15°C, while the optimal range falls between 20°C to 35°C.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soils including sand, loam, and clay but performs best in sandy soils that are slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5). The plant is drought-tolerant but can benefit from regular watering during periods of prolonged dryness.
Cultivation of Combretum arbuscula Engl. & Diels
Combretum arbuscula is known for its ability to grow in a wide range of soils, including sandy, clayey, and loamy soils. It prefers well-draining soils rich in organic matter. Plant it in an area that receives full sun to promote healthy growth. It is essential to ensure the plant is well-positioned since it can grow up to 10 meters tall.
Watering Needs of Combretum arbuscula Engl. & Diels
Combretum arbuscula is drought-resistant but requires enough water during establishment. Once established, water moderately, making sure the soil is slightly moist. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while inadequate watering can stunt the plant's growth and reduce foliage. Ensure the topsoil is dry to the touch before the next watering to avoid waterlogging and suppress fungal attacks.
Fertilization of Combretum arbuscula Engl. & Diels
Combretum arbuscula requires minimal fertilization but can benefit from moderate applications of general-purpose fertilizer during the growing season. The organic-nitrogen fertilizer is highly recommended since it provides a slow-release of nutrients. Additionally, you can spread an inch of organic matter on the base in early spring, promoting soil fertility, good drainage, and stimulating growth.
Pruning Combretum arbuscula Engl. & Diels
Pruning the Combretum arbuscula should be done during the early phases of growth to establish the ideal shape. Do not prune after the plant begins to flower as it may affect the overall appearance. Typically, pruning the plant involves removing dead, damaged, and diseased branches, especially during the growing season, which may hinder healthy growth. Use gardening shears to cut the branches just above the nearest branch intersection.
Propagation of Combretum arbuscula Engl. & Diels
Combretum arbuscula Engl. & Diels can be propagated through both seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
The plant produces seeds that can be collected once they are matured. The seeds can be planted directly into the soil, but before planting, they should be soaked in warm water overnight to soften the hard outer shell. The seeds should be sown at a depth of around 1 cm, and the soil should be kept lightly moist until germination occurs.
Germination usually takes around 2-4 weeks, but it can take longer. Once the plants have grown to a height of around 5-10 cm, they can be transplanted into larger containers or directly into the ground.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is a quicker and more reliable method than growing from seeds. The best time to take cuttings is during the spring or summer months. Take cuttings that are around 10-15 cm long, and make sure they have at least two nodes.
Remove the bottom set of leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cuttings in a soil mix of peat and perlite, and water them well. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, and place the container in a spot that gets indirect sunlight.
After around 4-6 weeks, the cuttings should have developed roots, and they can be transplanted into larger containers or directly into the ground.
Disease management
Combretum arbuscula is a relatively disease-resistant plant. However, some diseases can still affect it, reducing crop yield and quality. Common diseases that may affect Combretum arbuscula include:
- Leaf spot: This disease is caused by fungi and manifests as gray or brownish spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, affected leaves and branches should be removed and destroyed immediately. Also, applying copper fungicides can help control the spread of the disease.
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that causes brown, circular spots on the leaves. To manage anthracnose, affected parts of the plants should be removed and destroyed, and copper fungicides should be applied.
- Root rot: Root rot is caused by waterlogging and can be prevented by ensuring the soil is well-drained. If root rot occurs, affected plants should be uprooted and destroyed to prevent further spread.
Pest management
Insect pests can also affect the yield and quality of Combretum arbuscula. Some common pests that may affect the plant include:
- Spider mites: These are tiny red or black bugs that suck sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and dry. To manage spider mites, spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help reduce their population.
- Caterpillars: These pests can cause significant damage to the leaves, resulting in reduced crop yield. Using biological control measures such as introducing natural enemies like parasitic wasps can help prevent caterpillar infestation.
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that also suck sap from the leaves, reducing the quality of the crop. To manage aphids, spraying with a solution of water and soap or using insecticidal soap can be effective.
Regular inspection of the Combretum arbuscula can identify any sign of disease or pest infestation. Early detection, proper sanitation, and proper chemical control measures can help manage diseases and insect pests that could affect the yield and quality of Combretum arbuscula.
