Combretum Glutinosum Auct.
Combretum glutinosum auct., also known as the Yellow Bush Willow, is a deciduous plant that belongs to the Combretaceae family. It is native to Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in East Africa, where it grows in regions with an altitude of 800-2000 meters above sea level. The plant thrives well in open spaces and rocky areas, especially in savannah and scrub habitats.
General Appearance
The Combretum glutinosum auct. is a small tree or large shrub that can grow up to 5-8 meters tall. It has a narrow to wide-spreading, rounded crown and has a pale bark that is smooth or slightly fissured. The tree is deciduous, which means that it sheds its leaves during the dry season, and sprouts new leaves when the rains return. The leaves are opposite, elongated, elliptical, and have a dark-green, glossy appearance. The tree produces small, elongated, yellow to orange-red flowers that are about 1 cm long. They emerge in clusters between April to August, depending on the region and altitude. After flowering, the tree produces oblong-shaped fruits that are about 2 cm long and turn brown when mature.
Common Names and Uses
Combretum glutinosum auct. has several common names depending on geographic location. In East Africa, it is known as Msufi or Msufi mtambwe in Kiswahili, while in Southern Africa, it is referred to as Geelharpuisbos or Geel-wilgerboom in Afrikaans. The plant has several uses that are both medicinal and non-medicinal. The bark and leaves of the tree contain tannins, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and are used in traditional medicine to treat wounds and skin infections. The plant is also used for making traditional remedies for coughs, colds, and fever. In addition to its medicinal value, the plant is used as a source of fuelwood, and the wood is used to make furniture, poles for building, and charcoal. The tree also serves as a source of food for certain wildlife species.
Light Requirements
Combretum glutinosum, commonly known as the "sticky bushwillow," prefers full sun exposure for optimal growth. As such, it thrives in open areas rather than in shaded locations. The plant can withstand some shade, but insufficient light exposure hampers its growth and development.
Temperature
This plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions, and thus requires a consistently warm climate to grow. It can tolerate occasional temperature drops and can withstand temperatures as low as -3°C (27°F). However, growth rate slows down below 18°C (65°F), and the shrub could die if exposed to freezing temperatures for an extended period.
Soil Requirements
Combretum glutinosum is not choosy when it comes to soil type, as it can grow in a variety of soil conditions. However, the plant prefers well-drained soils and usually grows on lowlands near rivers and steam banks, where soil moisture is sufficient. The plant can also withstand drought, making it ideal for areas with occasional rain.
Cultivation Methods for Combretum Glutinosum Auct.
The Combretum Glutinosum Auct. is a versatile plant that thrives in diverse soil types, from well-drained to marshy soils. Choose a suitable location with optimal sunlight and temperatures ranging from 25 to 32 degrees Celsius for the plant to thrive. You can grow the plant from seedlings or cuttings.
Watering Needs for Combretum Glutinosum Auct.
The Combretum Glutinosum Auct. thrives in areas with high humidity, and frequent watering is necessary for its growth. Water the plant regularly, preferably twice or thrice a week, depending on the weather conditions. Do not overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot, which hinders the growth of the plant.
Fertilization of Combretum Glutinosum Auct.
Applying fertilizer to your Combretum Glutinosum Auct. plant increases the nutrient content of the soil, which enhances its growth. Apply organic fertilizer, preferably manure, once every four months during the growing season. Apply in small quantities to avoid over-fertilizing as this can lead to leaf drop and other adverse effects on the plant's growth.
Pruning of Combretum Glutinosum Auct.
Pruning involves cutting off any weak or dead branches to promote growth and maintain the plant's shape. Combretum Glutinosum Auct. is a fast-growing plant that requires regular pruning. Prune your plant once every two to three months, depending on its growth rate, to remove any damaged or overgrown branches. Ensure that the pruning equipment is sterilized to prevent infections from one plant to another.
Propagation of Combretum glutinosum auct.
There are several methods of propagating Combretum glutinosum auct. which include:
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is a relatively easy way to propagate Combretum glutinosum auct. However, the seeds need to be treated before planting to remove any germination inhibitors. The seeds should be cleaned and soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat. This will allow for easier germination and hasten the time it takes for the seed to sprout. The seeds can then be planted in a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. Germination usually takes between 2-3 weeks, and once the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Cuttings propagation
Cuttings can also be used to propagate Combretum glutinosum auct. Softwood cuttings should be taken from the parent plant during the growing season. The cuttings should be about 6-8 inches long and taken from the tip of the stem. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the remaining leaves should be cut in half to reduce moisture loss. The cuttings should then be dipped in rooting hormone and planted into a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and in a few weeks, the cuttings should start to produce new growth. Once the cuttings have established a good root system, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Air layering propagation
Air layering is another method of propagation used for Combretum glutinosum auct. This method involves making a cut in the stem of the parent plant and surrounding the cut with moist sphagnum moss. The moss is then wrapped in plastic and secured in place with string or twist ties. The cut should be made just below a node where there is the greatest concentration of auxin. In a few weeks, roots should start to grow from the cut area. Once a good root system has formed, the stem can be cut below the new root system and then transplanted to its permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Combretum Glutinosum
Combretum Glutinosum, commonly known as the African bushwillow, is a hardy plant that grows well in most conditions. Although it is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, it can still be affected by a few common problems. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that may affect this plant and the ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by various species of fungi and is characterized by circular or irregularly shaped spots on the leaves of the plant. The spots may be brown, black or yellow, and may have a reddish border. To manage this disease, remove any infected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide.
Root Rot: Root rot is caused by waterlogged soil, and it is characterized by yellowing of the plant's leaves and a general lack of vigor. To manage this disease, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil, and avoid watering it excessively.
Anthracnose: This is another fungal disease that affects the leaves of the Combretum Glutinosum. It is characterized by black, sunken lesions that may have a tan center. To manage this disease, ensure that the plant is grown in well-ventilated conditions, and spray the plant with a fungicide if necessary.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the sap of plants. They are usually found on the undersides of leaves and can cause the leaves of the Combretum Glutinosum to wilt and yellow. To manage an aphid infestation, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, eight-legged pests that suck the sap out of plants. They are usually found on the undersides of leaves and can cause the plant to become stunted. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larval form of moths and butterflies and can eat through the leaves of the Combretum Glutinosum. To manage caterpillars, pick them off by hand and dispose of them, or spray the plant with a biological insecticide such as Bacillus thuringiensis.
By following these disease and pest management strategies, it is possible to keep the Combretum Glutinosum healthy and thriving for years to come.
