Introduction
Combretum glutinosum Perr. ex DC. var. relictum (Hutch. & Dalziel) Aubrév. & Pellegr. is a plant species that belongs to the family Combretaceae. It is a variant of the species Combretum glutinosum, which is commonly known as the yellow bushwillow or shinakati in southern Africa. It is a deciduous, multi-stemmed shrub or small tree with a wide distribution in Africa, particularly in the southern and eastern regions of the continent.
Common Names
The plant has several common names, including:
- Yellow bushwillow (for the species)
- Shinakati (for the species in southern Africa)
- Musemba (for the var. relictum in Zambia)
- Muhaka (for the var. relictum in Malawi)
Appearance
The var. relictum of Combretum glutinosum Perr. ex DC. has distinct characteristics that differentiate it from other variants of the species. It has a shiny, dark-green leaf color on the upper surface, with a lighter shade of green on the underside. The stems are thick and twisted, with a reddish-brown color and a rough texture. The bark is greyish-brown and flaky. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow, with a tubular shape and a sweet scent. The fruit is a small capsule that contains a single seed.
Uses
Combretum glutinosum Perr. ex DC. var. relictum has several uses in traditional medicine. In Zambia, the bark and leaves are used to treat infertility, urinary tract infections, and diarrhea. In Malawi, the bark and roots are used to treat snakebites and fever. The plant also has several uses in agroforestry systems. It is used as a hedge plant to control soil erosion and as a source of firewood and fencing material. The plant is also useful in beekeeping, as the flowers are a source of nectar for honeybees.
Typical Growth Conditions of Combretum glutinosum Perr. ex DC. var. relictum (Hutch. & Dalziel) Aubrév. & Pellegr.
Combretum glutinosum Perr. ex DC. var. relictum (Hutch. & Dalziel) Aubrév. & Pellegr., commonly referred to as "Lai" or "Gum Arabic Tree," is a species of plant that thrives in the African tropics. This plant typically grows as a bush or a small tree and can reach a height of up to 8 meters. Its leaves are simple and opposite, and its flowers are small and greenish-white. The fruit of the plant is a four-winged capsule that contains one seed. To cultivate this plant successfully, certain growth conditions must be met.
Light Requirements
Combretum glutinosum Perr. ex DC. var. relictum requires full sun exposure to grow optimally. It cannot tolerate shade, and therefore, it is recommended to plant it in a spot that receives direct sunlight. The plant requires about six hours of sunlight daily to maintain its growth and produce flowers and fruits.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires warm temperatures that range from 21-33°C (70-90°F) to grow optimally. It thrives in a tropical climate with high humidity. In regions with cooler temperatures, the plant may grow slowly or not at all. Therefore, it is recommended to plant it in a warm and humid place.
Soil Requirements
Combretum glutinosum Perr. ex DC. var. relictum grows best in rich, well-drained soil with a pH ranging from 6.0-7.5. The soil should be deep enough to allow the roots to grow properly. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged or compacted soils. Therefore, it is recommended to plant it in well-draining soil. The plant can also tolerate sandy soils with low moisture content, making it adaptable to different soil types in its native range.
Cultivation methods
Combretum glutinosum Perr. ex DC. var. relictum (Hutch. & Dalziel) Aubrév. & Pellegr. prefers well-draining, loamy soil and requires plenty of sunlight to grow successfully. The plant typically thrives in tropical and sub-tropical regions.
Watering needs
Watering requirements for Combretum glutinosum Perr. ex DC. var. relictum (Hutch. & Dalziel) Aubrév. & Pellegr. depend on the season and weather conditions. During the dry season, the plant should be watered at least once a week. In the wet season, watering can be reduced to once every two weeks.
Fertilization
Fertilization helps to promote healthy growth and increased flowering. The use of organic fertilizers such as compost or manure is recommended for Combretum glutinosum Perr. ex DC. var. relictum (Hutch. & Dalziel) Aubrév. & Pellegr. Fertilizers should be applied to the soil around the base of the plant, preferably once every two months.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for the continued health and growth of Combretum glutinosum Perr. ex DC. var. relictum (Hutch. & Dalziel) Aubrév. & Pellegr. The best time to prune is during the dry season, after the plant has finished flowering. Dead or diseased branches should be removed, and any growth that is crossing or rubbing against another branch should also be cut back. Aim to create an open and balanced shape.
Propagation of Combretum glutinosum Perr. ex DC. var. relictum
Propagation of Combretum glutinosum Perr. ex DC. var. relictum can be achieved through various methods. These methods include:
1. Seeds propagation
Seeds propagation is one of the commonest methods for propagating Combretum glutinosum var. relictum. The seeds are taken from mature fruits, cleaned, and then sown in seedbeds or nursery beds. In the nursery beds, the seeds are covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist until germination occurs.
2. Stem cuttings propagation
Stem cuttings propagation is another method used for propagating Combretum glutinosum var. relictum. For this method, semi-hardwood cuttings about 20-25 cm long are taken from healthy mother plants. The cuttings are usually taken during the rainy season, and care should be taken to ensure that the cuttings are kept moist until they develop new roots.
3. Grafting propagation
Grafting is another propagation method that can be used for Combretum glutinosum var. relictum. In this method, a scion is taken from the desired mother plant and grafted onto a rootstock of a similar species. Grafted plants usually have better disease resistance and perform better than those propagated through other methods.
4. Layering propagation
Layering is a propagation method that involves bending a low-lying branch of the mother plant to the ground and then covering a section of the branch with soil. After some time, roots will develop from the covered section of the branch. The branch can then be cut from the mother plant and grown as a new individual.
Disease Management
Combretum glutinosum Perr. ex DC. var. relictum is susceptible to several diseases that can be detrimental to its overall health and productivity. These diseases include:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can lead to leaf yellowing, wilting, and defoliation. It can be managed by pruning infected parts of the plant and applying fungicides.
- Root rot: Caused by waterlogged soil and fungal infections, root rot can stunt growth and eventually lead to plant death. Proper soil drainage and selective fungicide application can help control this disease.
- Powdery mildew: A common fungal disease that leaves a white, powdery residue on leaves and stems, powdery mildew can be prevented by providing good air circulation and applying fungicides.
Pest Management
Combretum glutinosum Perr. ex DC. var. relictum is also susceptible to various pests that can damage the plant. These pests include:
- Spider mites: Tiny insects that suck plant juices and cause yellowing and wilting of leaves, spider mites can be managed by regularly washing the plant with water or applying insecticides.
- Caterpillars: These pests feed on the leaves of the plant and can cause severe defoliation. They can be manually removed or controlled using insecticides.
- Mealybugs: Soft-bodied insects that suck plant sap and leave a white, powdery residue on leaves and stems, mealybugs can be managed by regularly washing the plant with water or applying insecticides.
