Origin
Combretum lasiocarpum Engl. & Diels is a plant species that belongs to the Combretaceae family, which is known for its tropical and subtropical trees and shrubs. It is native to Africa, specifically in the countries of Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Congo, Ivory Coast, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Togo, Uganda, and Zaire.
Common names
Combretum lasiocarpum Engl. & Diels is known by several common names depending on the country or region, such as velvet bushwillow, woolly fruit bushwillow, mokalalo, and ngwana-motlhala.
Uses
The plant has a variety of uses, particularly in traditional medicine. The bark, leaves, and roots have been used to treat several ailments, including dysentery, diarrhea, stomach ache, sore throat, and respiratory infections. The roots have also been used as a remedy for snakebites and scorpion stings. In addition, the plant's fruit is used as a source of food for both humans and livestock.
General appearance
Combretum lasiocarpum Engl. & Diels is a large shrub or small tree that can reach up to 6 meters in height. The plant has a single trunk with a dense spherical to irregular crown. The leaves are simple, opposite, and measure about 8-20 cm long and 5-10 cm wide. They are velvety on the upper surface and woolly on the lower surface. The flowers are small and white, borne in dense clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a four-winged drupe that measures about 1-2 cm in length, with dense woolly hairs that cover the wings of the fruit.
Typical Growth Conditions of Combretum lasiocarpum Engl. & Diels
Combretum lasiocarpum Engl. & Diels, commonly known as the velvet bushwillow or large-fruited bushwillow, is a deciduous tree belonging to the family Combretaceae. This plant is commonly found in the savannas and woodlands of southern and eastern Africa.
Light Requirements
Combretum lasiocarpum requires full sunlight to grow and thrive. This plant cannot tolerate shade and requires direct exposure to sunlight to reach its full potential. Therefore, it is recommended to plant the seeds or saplings in an area with adequate sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Combretum lasiocarpum grows in areas with tropical and subtropical climates. This plant can tolerate high temperatures, with an average temperature range of 20? to 30?. During the winter season, the temperature can drop below 10?, and this plant can survive these colder temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Combretum lasiocarpum grows best in soils that are well-drained and rich in organic matter. This plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including loam, sand, and clay soils. It is important to note that the pH of the soil should be neutral to slightly acidic, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. This plant cannot tolerate waterlogged or saline soils.
In summary, Combretum lasiocarpum requires full sunlight, a temperature range of 20? to 30?, and well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. By meeting these growth conditions, the velvet bushwillow can grow into a beautiful tree that can provide numerous benefits to the ecosystem and the community.
Cultivation Methods
The Combretum lasiocarpum Engl. & Diels is a hardy plant that is drought-tolerant and can grow in various soil types. It thrives in full sun or partial shade, so it's best to plant it in a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight daily.
When planting, ensure that the hole is twice the size of the plant's root ball and loosened to enable the roots to establish themselves better. Spread a layer of compost over the soil, then add a layer of mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Watering Needs
This plant is drought resistant, but you'll need to water it occasionally to keep it healthy and promote growth. During the first few months after planting, water it frequently to help the roots establish themselves. Once the plant is established, reduce the frequency of watering but ensure that the soil remains evenly moist.
Fertilization
Combretum lasiocarpum Engl. & Diels doesn't require frequent fertilization. However, you can add some compost or organic fertilizer to the soil before planting to supply the plant with vital nutrients. You can also use a balanced slow-release fertilizer twice a year, ideally during the growing seasons.
Pruning
Regular pruning is crucial to keep Combretum lasiocarpum Engl. & Diels healthy and vigorous. Pruning it annually, ideally during the winter months, helps to keep the plant compact and maintain its desired shape. You can remove any damaged or diseased branches, inward growth, or weak stems.
Ensure that you use clean and sharp tools when pruning and make clean cuts to avoid damaging the healthy parts of the plant.
Propagation of Combretum lasiocarpum Engl. & Diels
Combretum lasiocarpum Engl. & Diels commonly known as velvety Combretum is a popular shrub that is native to Africa. The plant is known for its beautiful, showy red flowers that bloom in late winter to early spring. Propagating Combretum lasiocarpum is easy and can be done through various ways.
Propagation methods
1. Seed propagation
Propagation of Combretum lasiocarpum can be done by seed. Collect mature seeds from the plant and soak them overnight in warm water to soften the seed coat and enhance germination. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil mix in a warm and brightly lit area. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which should take between 2 to 4 weeks.
2. Stem cuttings
Another propagation method for Combretum lasiocarpum is through stem cuttings. Take a healthy stem from the plant, make a clean cut using sharp and sterilized pruning shears. Remove all the leaves from the bottom half of the stem. Dip the cut end of the stem into a rooting hormone to promote rooting, and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Cover the plant with a clear plastic bag to create a humid environment that encourages rooting.
3. Layering
Layering is another way to propagate Combretum lasiocarpum. To do this, select a lower branch on the plant and scrape a small section of the bark near the ground area. Bury this scraped area under the soil, keeping the rest of the branch above the soil surface. Water it and wait for roots to develop from the scraped area. Once rooted, cut the branch from the mother plant and transplant to its own pot.
With the above propagation methods, propagating Combretum lasiocarpum is easy and can be done anytime throughout the year. Select the most convenient propagation method that suits your conditions and preferences.
Disease Management for Combretum lasiocarpum Engl. & Diels
Combretum lasiocarpum Engl. & Diels is generally a sturdy plant that is tolerant to diseases, but it is not entirely immune. Here are some common diseases that may affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Bacterial Leaf Spot
Bacterial leaf spot is a common disease that affects Combretum lasiocarpum Engl. & Diels. The symptoms include water-soaked spots on the leaves that eventually turn brown and necrotic. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and prune any affected branches. Also, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation and drainage to prevent the spread of the disease.
Canker
Canker is another disease that can affect Combretum lasiocarpum Engl. & Diels. It is caused by a fungi that causes sunken and discolored areas on the branches and stems. Prune the affected areas and dispose of them to prevent further infections. Provide good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent the spread of the disease.
Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that attacks the roots of Combretum lasiocarpum Engl. & Diels. It is usually caused by over-watering or poorly draining soils. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing, and leaf drop. To manage this disease, avoid over-watering the plant and ensure that the soil is well-draining. Also, remove any infected plants to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management for Combretum lasiocarpum Engl. & Diels
Combretum lasiocarpum Engl. & Diels is relatively resistant to pests, but here are some common pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are small insects that can cause significant damage to Combretum lasiocarpum Engl. & Diels. They feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves. To manage this pest, introduce natural predators like ladybirds, lacewings, and parasitic wasps. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the population.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are another pest that can cause damage to Combretum lasiocarpum Engl. & Diels. They are tiny insects that feed on the plant, causing stippling, discoloration, and premature leaf drop. To manage this pest, introduce natural predators like ladybirds and lacewings. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the population.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are another common pest that can feed on Combretum lasiocarpum Engl. & Diels leaves. They can cause significant damage, especially in large numbers. To manage this pest, hand-pick the caterpillars and dispose of them. Also, introduce natural predators like birds or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticide.
