Origin and Common Names
Combretum collinum Fresen. subsp. kwangense (P.A.Duvign.) Okafor, also known as Kwang Tropical Almond, is a plant species that belongs to the Combretaceae family. The plant is native to West Africa, specifically in Nigeria, Ghana, and Sierra Leone. It is commonly found in tropical rainforests, where it grows in highlands and lowlands.
Appearance
The Kwang Tropical Almond is a tree that can grow up to 25 meters tall. It has a large, rounded canopy that provides ample shade. The tree can also be easily identified by the bark, which is gray-brown with deep furrows. The leaves are alternate, simple, and oblong to obovate in shape, with a glossy green color that can reach up to 12cm in length. The flowers are small and white, and the fruit is a small, woody, four-winged nut that is approximately 2-3cm in length.
Uses
The Kwang Tropical Almond has many uses. The fruit is edible, although it is not widely consumed because it is relatively small and hard. The tree's bark and leaves are used for medicinal purposes, treating a wide range of ailments, including stomach problems, respiratory conditions, and skin diseases. Additionally, the wood of the tree is strong and durable, making it popular for construction and furniture-making. The tree is also planted as an ornamental species due to its attractive foliage and canopy, providing much-needed shade in hot climates.
Growth Conditions of Combretum collinum Fresen. subsp. kwangense (P.A.Duvign.) Okafor
Combretum collinum Fresen. subsp. kwangense (P.A.Duvign.) Okafor, commonly known as bushwillow, is a drought-resistant shrub that is native to Africa. This plant species is widely distributed in the African continent, and it can thrive in various ecological zones. The following are the typical growth conditions required for Combretum collinum Fresen. subsp. kwangense (P.A.Duvign.) Okafor:
Light
Combretum collinum Fresen. subsp. kwangense (P.A.Duvign.) Okafor requires full sunlight to grow. The plant needs at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive. Bushwillows thrive in open habitats, such as grasslands and savannas that receive abundant sunshine. If grown indoors, the plant requires exposure to bright light to grow optimally.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for growing Combretum collinum Fresen. subsp. kwangense (P.A.Duvign.) Okafor is between 20°C to 30°C. The plant can endure hot, dry summers and cold winters. However, frost can damage the plant's leaves and branches. For optimal growth of this species, it requires mild temperatures that are neither too hot nor too cold.
Soil Requirements
Combretum collinum Fresen. subsp. kwangense (P.A.Duvign.) Okafor grows best in well-draining sandy loam soil. The soil should have a neutral to slightly acidic pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The plant can also thrive in slightly alkaline soils. The soil's organic matter should be at least 2% for optimal growth. Bushwillows are drought-resistant, and they can withstand long periods of water scarcity. However, regular watering can enhance the plant's growth rate.
Cultivation Methods
Combretum collinum Fresen. subsp. kwangense (P.A.Duvign.) Okafor, commonly referred to as the Kwango combretum, is a deciduous shrub belonging to the Combretaceae family. It is indigenous to West Africa and thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. This plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers full sun to partial shade and is intolerant of frost and drought conditions.
When cultivating the Kwango combretum, ensure that the soil is prepared by incorporating mature compost or rotted manure into it. This will enable it to retain moisture and enhance nutrient availability. Planting is best done during the rainy season when the plant can establish a strong root system. The shrub reaches a height of 4 to 5 meters and requires ample space to spread its branches. Therefore, planting distances should be at least three meters apart from each other.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is critical for the growth and development of the Kwango combretum. This plant requires consistent but not excessive watering. During the rainy season, regular watering may not be necessary as the plant can absorb moisture from the soil. However, during dry spells, ensure that the shrub receives enough water to keep the soil moist. Overwatering can lead to the development of fungal diseases and root rot. Once the plant has established its roots, it can tolerate short-term droughts.
Fertilization
The Kwango combretum responds well to regular application of organic fertilizers. During the growing season, fertilize the plant monthly using well-rotted manure, compost, or a slow-release organic fertilizer. This will provide the necessary nutrients to support healthy growth and development. Avoid using chemical fertilizers as they may damage the plant and compromise soil fertility in the long run.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to promote healthy growth and prevent overgrowth of the Kwango combretum. Pruning should be done during the dormant season, ideally at the beginning of the rainy season. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches to prevent the spread of diseases and fungi. Additionally, thin out any overcrowded branches to promote better air circulation and light penetration. Pruning also helps to maintain the desired shape and size of the plant.
Propagation of Combretum collinum Fresen. subsp. kwangense (P.A.Duvign.) Okafor
Combretum collinum Fresen. subsp. kwangense (P.A.Duvign.) Okafor can be propagated through different methods. Some of the commonly employed propagation techniques are:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Combretum collinum Fresen. subsp. kwangense (P.A.Duvign.) Okafor are readily available and can be used to propagate new plants. The seeds are obtained from ripe fruits, which are collected between March and May. The collected fruits are processed to remove the seeds, which are sown immediately in seedbeds or pots containing well-prepared soil. Germination occurs within a few weeks and the seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent growing positions after they have developed two to three leaves.
Cuttings Propagation
Combretum collinum Fresen. subsp. kwangense (P.A.Duvign.) Okafor can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Softwood cuttings, which are taken from the tips of young stems, are suitable for propagation. The cuttings are prepared by removing the leaves from the lower half of the stem and treated with rooting hormone. They are then planted in a rooting medium, such as sand or perlite, and kept in a warm and humid environment. Rooting occurs within a few weeks and the rooted cuttings can be potted and grown into mature plants.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another propagation technique that is suitable for Combretum collinum Fresen. subsp. kwangense (P.A.Duvign.) Okafor. This method involves creating a wound on a mature stem, applying rooting hormone on the wound, and covering it with moist sphagnum moss or a similar material. A plastic bag is then wrapped around the covered area to maintain moisture and promote root development. When roots have formed, the stem is cut below the wound and transplanted to its permanent position.
Division Propagation
Combretum collinum Fresen. subsp. kwangense (P.A.Duvign.) Okafor can also be propagated through division of the plant. This method is suitable for mature plants that have developed multiple stems or suckers. The plant is carefully dug up and the stems or suckers are separated by cutting them at the base. Each stem or sucker is then planted separately in a well-prepared growing medium.
Disease Management
Combretum collinum Fresen. subsp. kwangense (P.A.Duvign.) Okafor may be affected by various diseases that can cause leaf spots, wilting, stem cankers, and premature leaf drops. The most common diseases include:
- Leaf spot: This disease caused by fungal infection results in the appearance of dark to brown circular or angular spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the affected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used.
- Powdery mildew: This disease leads to the appearance of white powdery areas on the leaves and stems. To control it, maintain proper air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also help.
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal infection that causes irregularly shaped brown lesions on the leaves and flowers. To manage it, remove and destroy the affected plant parts and apply fungicides.
The prevention of diseases is also key to the management of Combretum collinum Fresen. subsp. kwangense (P.A.Duvign.) Okafor disease. Ensure that the plant has adequate nutrients, sunlight, water, and proper air circulation. Promote proper drainage and avoid over-watering.
Pests Management
Combretum collinum Fresen. subsp. kwangense (P.A.Duvign.) Okafor is also susceptible to attack by pests that can hinder its growth and development and lead to economic losses. Some of the common pests include:
- Aphids: These pests suck sap from the leaves, resulting in distorted and curled leaves. To control aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These pests suck sap from the leaves, causing the leaves to have yellow speckles. To control spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Caterpillars: These pests chew and feed on the leaves. To control them, use organic insecticides such as Bacillus thuringiensis.
Preventive measures can also help in controlling pests. Inspect the plants regularly and maintain proper sanitation. Avoid overcrowding the plants, as it can promote pest infestation. Use physical barriers such as nets or insect traps to prevent pests from accessing the plants and disrupting their growth.
