Overview
Combretum multinervium Exell, also known as "Mufuti" or "River Bushwillow," is a striking tree endemic to the Zambezi Valley and some of its tributaries in Southern Africa. It belongs to the family Combretaceae and is closely related to the Terminalia species. This plant has various traditional uses and ornamental purposes, making it a valuable species in its native region and beyond.
Appearance
Combretum multinervium can grow up to 15 meters tall, forming a semi-deciduous tree with a rounded or spreading crown. Its bark is gray, with narrow vertical ridges, while its branches are slender, green, and pendant. The leaves are large, glossy, and elliptical, measuring 8-22 cm long, with a shiny upper surface, and slightly hairy beneath. They are arranged alternately, with 16-25 pairs of longitudinal veins, giving the plant its species name. The flowers are small, greenish, and inconspicuous, blooming in dense spikes from December to February. The fruit is a dry, woody capsule containing four-winged seeds that disperse in the wind.
Traditional Uses
The Combretum multinervium plant has a long history of medicinal and cultural uses by indigenous people. Its bark, roots, and leaves are rich in tannins, flavonoids, and other compounds that have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. The stems and roots are used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and other gastrointestinal ailments, while the roots and bark are traditionally used to relieve pain. The leaves and bark also make an infusion that is used to treat fever, coughs, and colds. An infusion of the roots is also used as a wash for wounds, sores, and skin infections. The wood is hard and durable, making it ideal for carving utensils, furniture, and tool handles.
Ornamental Purposes
The Combretum multinervium plant is popular in landscaping and horticulture due to its attractive foliage, elegant shape, and drought-tolerance. It grows well in warm, sunny areas with well-drained soils, making it suitable for gardens, parks, and streetscapes. The tree's shape makes it ideal for use as a shade tree, and the leaves turn yellow and orange in autumn, providing another attractive feature. Combretum multinervium is also planted as a shelterbelt to prevent soil erosion and provide fodder for livestock.
Light Requirements
Combretum multinervium typically grows well in full sunlight or partial shade. It requires at least four hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive. Plants grown in shady areas may bloom less frequently or produce fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
Combretum multinervium grows best in warm to hot climates. It typically thrives in temperatures ranging from 70 to 90°F (21 to 32°C). Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can slow down or damage the plant, while temperatures above 100°F (38°C) can cause dehydration and scorching of leaves.
Soil Requirements
Combretum multinervium prefers well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it grows best in nutrient-rich soils with good moisture-retention capacity.
Cultivation methods
Combretum multinervium Exell, commonly known as Forest Bushwillow, requires a sunny or partially shaded location. It tolerates a wide range of soils but thrives best in well-draining soils. The plant can be propagated from seed or cuttings. If propagating from seeds, the hard outer coat must first be softened by soaking in hot water for 12-24 hours before planting. Cuttings should be taken from semi-hardwood and treated with rooting hormone before planting in a well-draining potting mix.
Watering needs
Forest Bushwillow requires moderate watering. During the growing season, water the plant deeply once a week. Ensure that the soil is well-draining to avoid standing water, which can lead to root rot. The plant can withstand short periods of drought but will require more frequent watering during extended dry periods.
Fertilization
Forest Bushwillow benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for the correct dosage and frequency of application. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months as the plant is dormant and will not benefit from additional nutrients.
Pruning
Forest Bushwillow requires occasional pruning to maintain its shape and size. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, and prune back any branches that have become too long or are obstructing paths or walkways. Avoid pruning more than a third of the plant at a time as this can weaken the plant and reduce its vigor.
Propagation of Combretum multinervium Exell
Combretum multinervium Exell, commonly known as the River Bushwillow or Forest Bushwillow, is a deciduous tree native to Southern Africa, particularly in Angola, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. It is a hardy species that can grow up to 10 meters tall and often used for decoration purposes.
Propagation Methods
There are two principal methods of propagation for Combretum multinervium Exell:
1. Seed Propagation
Propagation through seeds is the most commonly used method. The seeds are found in the plant's fruit, which is a woody capsule. The capsule usually bursts open, spilling the seeds around the parent tree, and the seeds will germinate around the parent tree. To propagate from seeds, follow these steps:
- Collect the ripe fruits of the Combretum multinervium Exell.
- Remove the seeds from the fruit, and discard any damaged seeds.
- Clean the seeds by removing any remaining fruit fiber or flesh.
- Soak the seeds in water overnight.
- Sow the seeds in a suitable germination mix. The mix should be a combination of sand, compost, and loam.
- Water well, and keep in a warm and bright area, out of direct sunlight.
- Seedlings will begin to emerge after three to four weeks.
- Transplant the seedlings into individual pots. Then, transplant to the garden after a year when they are stronger.
2. Vegetative Propagation
Propagation through vegetative means involves growing a new plant from a part of the parent tree, like a cutting. This method ensures that the new plant will be an exact genetic match of the parent tree, making it a clone. To propagate from cuttings, follow these steps:
- Take stem cuttings from a young plant in the spring or summer.
- Prepare the cuttings by removing the lower leaves along the stem, leaving only a few at the top.
- Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone powder.
- Plant the cuttings in a moist rooting mix made of equal parts peat moss and sand.
- Water well and cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a greenhouse effect.
- Place the pot in a warm, bright area for four to six weeks until roots appear and new leaves emerge.
- After the roots have established, transplant the new plant into an individual pot. Then, wait for it to grow strong enough before transplanting it to the garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Combretum multinervium Exell
Combretum multinervium Exell, also known as River Bushwillow, is a tree species native to Southern Africa. Like any other plant, it is prone to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and development. Therefore, proper disease and pest management practices are crucial to maintain the health and vigor of the tree. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Combretum multinervium Exell:
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Combretum multinervium Exell is root rot, caused by Phytophthora spp. This disease can cause wilting, yellowing of leaves, and stunted growth. To manage root rot, it is crucial to ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering the plant. Additionally, infected trees can be treated with fungicides that contain mefenoxam or metalaxyl.
Another disease that can affect Combretum multinervium Exell is leaf rust, caused by the fungus Uredo combreti. Symptoms include yellow to brown spots on leaves, premature defoliation, and reduced vigor. To manage leaf rust, infected leaves should be removed, and the tree should be treated with fungicides that contain copper.
Pests
One of the most destructive pests that can affect Combretum multinervium Exell is the stem borer, a type of moth larvae that burrows into the stem of the tree, causing structural damage and reducing plant vigor. Infected trees can be treated with insecticides containing chlorpyrifos or bifenthrin.
Another pest that can affect Combretum multinervium Exell is the weevil, which feeds on the leaves and reduces plant vigor. To manage weevils, it is crucial to remove infected leaves and apply insecticides that contain imidacloprid or acetamiprid.
In summary, proper disease and pest management practices are crucial to maintain the health and vigor of Combretum multinervium Exell. By identifying common diseases and pests early and taking appropriate management measures, farmers and home gardeners can ensure the successful growth and development of this valuable tree species.
