Overview
Combretum exalatum Engl. is a species of plant that belongs to the Combretaceae family. It is also commonly known as the 'Velvet bushwillow' due to its soft, velvety leaves. This plant is native to eastern and southern parts of Africa and is commonly found in various types of African vegetation, including savannahs and woodlands.
Appearance
The Combretum exalatum Engl. is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can grow up to 5-9 meters in height. The tree trunk has a grey-brown color with a smooth and corky texture. The leaves of this plant are oblong and oval-shaped, with a leathery texture and light green color on top, and a velvety texture and a light brown color beneath. During the flowering season, the plant features clusters of small, yellowish-green flowers that bloom at the ends of the branches, followed by the growth of small, reddish-brown fruit.
Uses
The Combretum exalatum Engl. has a range of traditional uses. The plant's bark is typically used to make traditional medicine that can treat diarrhea, dysentery, and a range of other digestive disorders. The leaves of the plant are also believed to have some medicinal properties, including antifungal and antimicrobial effects. In addition, the plant has been used as an alternative to timber, as the wood is hard and durable making it suitable for building fences, furniture, and other household items. The tree has also been used for carbon sequestering, soil conservation and erosion control through the binding of soil particles together which reduces movement of topsoil.
Overall, the Combretum exalatum Engl. is a versatile and beneficial plant with a range of uses that has been valued by many communities in Africa since ancient times.Light requirements
Combretum exalatum Engl. typically grows well in areas where there is plenty of sunlight. It requires full exposure to the sun, such that it is not obstructed by any shades. It's, therefore, recommended to plant it in open areas, where there's no shading. Incase it's planted in an area that has some shade, the plant may fail to grow to its full potential
Temperature requirements
The Combretum exalatum Engl. grows well in areas where temperatures range from 15°C to 35°C. It prefers warmer temperatures, but it's not tolerant of frost or freezing temperatures. The best temperature for the plant is 23°C to 27°C. In case the temperatures go below 10°C, the plant may not survive and may wilt.
Soil conditions
The Combretum exalatum Engl. plant prefers soils that are well-drained and have a mix of clay and loamy soil. It can grow in a wide range of soils ranging from sandy to clay soils. However, for the plant to grow to its full potential, it should be planted in soils that are rich in organic matter. The pH level of the soils should range from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, that is, between 6.5 to 7.5.
Cultivation methods for Combretum exalatum Engl.
Combretum exalatum Engl. can be grown outdoors as an ornamental plant in areas with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C. This plant prefers full sun and requires soil with good drainage. The best time to plant Combretum exalatum is early spring or fall, depending on your climate. They need to be planted deep enough to cover the roots and ensure they stand firm in their position.
Watering needs for Combretum exalatum Engl.
Water your Combretum exalatum plant thoroughly and deeply for the first few months to encourage root growth. Once the roots have established themselves in the soil, the plant will require less frequent watering. During the growing season, the plant should be watered once a week, or whenever the soil feels dry 2 inches below the surface.
Fertilization for Combretum exalatum Engl.
Combretum exalatum Engl. should be fertilized once a month to keep them healthy. Use a balanced fertilizer that contains phosphorus, potassium, and nitrogen, following the package instructions. Fertilization should be done during the growing season, from spring to fall.
Pruning for Combretum exalatum Engl.
Pruning Combretum exalatum Engl. is vital to maintain its shape and encourage vigorous growth. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. You should remove all dead, damaged, and diseased branches first. The next step is to prune any out of place or crossing branches to open up the canopy.
Propagation of Combretum exalatum Engl.
Propagation of Combretum exalatum can be done through various means such as:
Seed propagation
Seeds of Combretum exalatum can be collected and sown. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and watered regularly. Germination usually takes about 2-3 weeks.
Cuttings propagation
Combretum exalatum can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from the parent plant during its dormant season. The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormones and planted in well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist, and the cuttings should be protected from direct sunlight until they develop roots.
Air-layering propagation
Air-layering is another method of propagating Combretum exalatum. In this method, a branch of the plant is selected and partially scraped to expose the cambium layer. The exposed area is treated with rooting hormones and covered with moist soil or sphagnum moss. The area is then wrapped with a plastic sheet to retain moisture. Roots should develop in about 6-8 weeks, after which the rooted branch can be removed from the parent plant and potted.
Propagation of Combretum exalatum is relatively easy and can be achieved through any of the above-mentioned methods. However, care should be taken to provide the necessary growing conditions to ensure the success of the propagation.
Disease and Pest Management for Combretum exalatum Engl.
Combretum exalatum Engl., also known as African leadwood, is generally a hardy plant with few serious disease or pest problems. However, some pests and diseases may affect the health of the plant. Below are some common diseases and pests that affect Combretum exalatum Engl., and how to manage them:
Black Spot
Black spot is a common fungal disease that may affect the leaves of Combretum exalatum Engl. This disease is characterized by the appearance of black circular spots that grow in size and may cause the leaves to fall off. The best way to prevent this disease is to remove infected plant material as soon as possible and destroy it. Regular inspection of the plant and providing adequate water and nutrients will also help to prevent black spot.
Aphids
Aphids are small sap-sucking insects that may attack Combretum exalatum Engl. They are usually found on the underside of the leaves and can cause the leaves to curl and become distorted. To control aphids, one can use insecticidal soaps or oils, which suffocate them. Alternatively, one can introduce beneficial insects like ladybirds, lacewings, or parasitic wasps that feed on aphids.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies that may feed on the leaves of Combretum exalatum Engl. They can cause significant damage to the plant if not controlled. The best way to prevent caterpillar infestations is to remove the larvae by hand or use Bacillus thuringiensis, a naturally occurring soil bacterium, which is effective against most caterpillar species.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are oval and often immobile pests that may attach themselves to the bark of Combretum exalatum Engl. They can cause the plant to lose vigor and may lead to death in severe infestations. One can remove scale insects by using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol and rubbing it over the affected areas. Alternatively, one can introduce predatory insects like ladybird beetles and parasitic wasps that feed on scale insects.
Regularly inspecting your Combretum exalatum Engl. plant and promptly addressing any disease or pest problems can help to ensure that it stays healthy and continues to thrive.
