Overview of Combretum basarense Engl.
Combretum basarense Engl. is a small tree species found in Africa, particularly in Cameroon and Nigeria. It belongs to the Combretaceae family, which comprises approximately 530 species of trees and shrubs.
Common Names
The plant has several common names, including African scented combretum, mango bush, and Zafi.
Appearance
Combretum basarense Engl. typically grows up to 10 meters tall, and it has a pale-grey bark with vertical fissures. Its leaves are opposite, ovate or elliptic, and glossy green. The tree also produces yellow flowers that bloom from October to December.
The plant's fruit is an oval-shaped drupe that turns purple when ripe. These fruits contain a single seed and are an important source of food for birds.
Uses
Combretum basarense Engl. has a variety of uses in traditional herbal medicine across Africa. Its bark, leaves, and roots are used to treat various illnesses, including diarrhea, malaria, and respiratory infections.
The tree's bark is also used to produce a red dye that is used in textiles and cosmetics.
The fruit of the Combretum basarense Engl. is edible and is consumed by both humans and animals as a source of food.
Furthermore, the plant's wood is used to make furniture, firewood, and charcoal.
Growth conditions of Combretum basarense Engl.
Light: Combretum basarense Engl. thrives best in full sunlight, although it can tolerate partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to grow and develop optimally.
Temperature: This plant prefers warm temperatures and cannot survive in temperatures below 8°C. It grows well in climates with temperatures ranging from 18-30°C.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained and fertile soils that are slightly acidic. It does not grow well in heavy clay soils. Combretum basarense Engl. is known to thrive well in sandy loam and alluvial soils that are rich in organic matter.
Water: The plant requires moderate watering with well-draining soil. It does not thrive well in waterlogged soil, as this can cause root rot. It prefers slightly moist soil.
Fertilization: This plant requires regular fertilization to maintain optimal growth. It is recommended to use slow-release fertilizers at the beginning of the growing season.
Pruning: Regular pruning is essential to maintain the plant's shape and promote bushy growth. Prune annually in the spring after the flowering season has ended.
Propagation: Propagation is done by seed or cuttings. It is recommended to use semi-hardwood cuttings in rooting hormone. Seeds must be scarified and soaked in water for 24 hours before sowing.
Cultivation of Combretum basarense Engl.
Combretum basarense Engl. is a drought-tolerant plant that requires well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight, making it an ideal plant for warmer regions. It is recommended to grow the plant in large containers or raised garden beds to ensure good drainage. The plant can also be grown directly in the ground, provided the soil is of good quality and well-drained.
Watering Needs of Combretum basarense Engl.
Although Combretum basarense Engl. is drought-tolerant, it still requires regular watering, especially when planted in containers. The plant should be watered frequently during the growing season, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. However, it's important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization of Combretum basarense Engl.
Combretum basarense Engl. does not require heavy fertilization, and overuse of fertilizers can actually harm the plant. A slow-release fertilizer can be added to the soil when planting or during the growing season, but only in small amounts. Alternatively, organic fertilizers such as compost or well-rotted manure can be used.
Pruning of Combretum basarense Engl.
Pruning is not essential for Combretum basarense Engl., but it can help to keep the plant in shape and promote healthy growth. The best time to prune the plant is during the dormant period, which is usually in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. It's important to use sharp and clean pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant, and to remove any dead or diseased branches first.
Propagation of Combretum basarense Engl.
Combretum basarense Engl. can be propagated through different methods which include:
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the most common method of propagating Combretum basarense Engl. and they should be sown during spring. Before sowing, the seed should be treated with a fungicide to prevent damping off. Place the seeds on the surface of the soil and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and germination should begin within two weeks.
Cutting Propagation
Combretum basarense Engl. can also be propagated through cuttings. Take cuttings from the current season growth and make sure they have at least two leaf nodes. Remove the leaves from the bottom two nodes and dip the cuttings in rooting hormone before planting in a well-draining soil mixture. Keep the soil moist and the cutting should root within two to four weeks.
Budding Propagation
Budding propagation is another method that can be used for Combretum basarense Engl. Take a bud from a mature plant and graft it onto a seedling rootstock. The rootstock should be healthy and disease-free. The bud should be covered with a plastic bag to maintain humidity until it begins to grow. In a few months, the plants should be separated and allowed to grow on their own.
Disease and Pest Management for Combretum basarense Engl.
Combretum basarense Engl. is a beautiful ornamental plant that is known for its attractive foliage and stunning flowers. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and beauty. Therefore, it is essential to learn how to manage these problems effectively.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Combretum basarense Engl. is root rot, which is caused by fungi. This disease can be identified by the plant's wilting leaves and the presence of a foul smell around the roots. To manage root rot, it is essential to water the plant properly and avoid overwatering. It is also recommended to apply a fungicide to the soil.
Another disease that can affect Combretum basarense Engl. is powdery mildew. This disease is caused by a fungal infection and can be identified by the appearance of powdery white spots on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to improve air circulation and apply a fungicide to the leaves.
Common Pests
Combretum basarense Engl. is also susceptible to various pests such as mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. Mealybugs are small insects that feed on the plant's sap and can cause leaf distortion and stunted growth. To manage mealybugs, it is recommended to apply an insecticidal soap to the leaves.
Scale insects are another common pest that can affect Combretum basarense Engl. These insects attach themselves to the plant's leaves and stems and suck out their sap, causing yellowing and wilting of leaves. To manage scale insects, it is essential to prune the affected parts of the plant and apply insecticidal soap to the remaining parts.
Spider mites are tiny pests that can damage the plant's leaves by sucking out their sap. They can be recognized by the appearance of small web-like structures on the leaves. To manage spider mites, it is essential to improve air circulation around the plant and apply an insecticidal soap to the leaves.
In conclusion, Combretum basarense Engl. is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and beauty. However, with proper management techniques, these problems can be effectively treated and prevented. It is important to monitor the plant regularly and take immediate action if any signs of disease or pests are noticed.
