Overview
Combretum psidioides Welw. subsp. glabrum Exell is a tree that belongs to the Combretum genus in the plant family Combretaceae. It is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 20 meters tall and has thorny branches.
Origin
Combretum psidioides Welw. subsp. glabrum Exell is native to tropical Africa, specifically found in Angola, Congo, and Zambia.
Common Names
This tree is commonly known by several names, including Apple Leaf, Blister Bush, Cherry Bark, and Combretum.
Uses
The bark of Combretum psidioides Welw. subsp. glabrum Exell is traditionally used in African medicine to treat various ailments. This includes using the bark as an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and as a laxative. The tree is also a popular ornamental plant that is grown in gardens and parks.
General Appearance
The tree has a straight trunk with rough, grey-brown bark that splits into long, thin strips. The leaves of Combretum psidioides Welw. subsp. glabrum Exell are oblong to elliptical and shiny, with a leathery texture and a dark green color that turns reddish-brown before falling off. The flowers are small and orange-red, arranged in clusters at the end of branches. The tree's fruit is a dark red, nut-like drupe that is flattened and has a hooked end.
Light Requirements:
Combretum psidioides subsp. glabrum prefers a well-lit area with bright, but indirect sunlight. They thrive in tropical and subtropical regions where there is plenty of light, but not direct exposure to the harsh rays of the sun.
Temperature Requirements:
This plant species requires temperate to warm temperatures, typically between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. They can thrive in areas with high humidity, but they do not do well in frosty temperatures or cold drafts. Therefore, it's important to protect them from freezing temperatures in winter.
Soil Requirements:
Combretum psidioides subsp. glabrum thrives in a well-drained soil substrate. The soil should be a mixture of sand, loam, and clay, with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. This plant species requires soil that is rich in organic matter and well-aerated to allow for proper root development. However, it should not be waterlogged at any given time, as this could cause root rot and eventually lead to the death of the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Combretum psidioides Welw. subsp. glabrum Exell is a hardy plant that grows well in tropical and subtropical regions. It is drought-tolerant and can survive in different soil types, but prefers well-draining soils.
Plant Combretum psidioides Welw. subsp. glabrum Exell in a spot with full sun exposure, as it requires plenty of light to grow and thrive. The recommended planting time is during the rainy season, as this will reduce the need for frequent watering until the plant establishes itself in the soil.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Combretum psidioides Welw. subsp. glabrum Exell are minimal once it has become established. Watering should only be done when the soil is dry to the touch, and the amount of water given should be enough to wet the root zone. Overwatering can cause root rot and other diseases which can be detrimental to the plant.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for Combretum psidioides Welw. subsp. glabrum Exell to grow and thrive. However, adding organic matter to the soil during planting can help improve the soil structure and provide essential nutrients.
If the plant appears pale or is not growing as expected, a controlled-release fertilizer can be applied at the beginning of the growing season. This will provide slow-release nutrients over time, allowing the plant to absorb them as needed.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Combretum psidioides Welw. subsp. glabrum Exell to grow and bloom, but it can help shape the plant and keep it from becoming too leggy. Pruning can be done at any time of year when necessary, but it is best to avoid pruning during the plant's dormant period.
When pruning, use sharp, clean tools to avoid damaging the plant. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches first, then shape the plant as desired. Be sure to make clean cuts just above the node or bud to promote new growth.
Propagation Methods for Combretum psidioides Welw. subsp. glabrum Exell
Propagation of Combretum psidioides Welw. subsp. glabrum Exell can be done by using both seeds and vegetative means.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Combretum psidioides Welw. subsp. glabrum Exell can be collected from the mature fruits. The collected seeds should be cleaned and sown directly or stored for future use. The ideal time for sowing Combretum psidioides Welw. subsp. glabrum Exell seeds is at the beginning of the rainy season when there is plenty of moisture in the soil. The germination rate is usually high and can be enhanced by soaking the seeds in water for a few hours before sowing.
Propagation by Vegetative Means
Propagation of Combretum psidioides Welw. subsp. glabrum Exell can also be done by vegetative means. The plant can be propagated from stem cuttings, root cuttings or layering. The stem cuttings should be taken from mature stems of at least 2 to 3 years of age and treated with rooting hormones before planting. Root cuttings should be taken from healthy roots and planted in well-drained soil.
Layering is another effective vegetative propagation method for Combretum psidioides Welw. subsp. glabrum Exell. In this method, a low branch of the plant is selected, and a section of the stem is wounded and bent to the ground. The wounded section is then covered with soil, and roots soon develop. After some time, the rooted section can be severed from the mother plant and transplanted.
Disease Management
Combretum psidioides Welw. subsp. glabrum Exell can be susceptible to various diseases which can cause severe damage to the plant and even lead to death if not managed properly. Below are some of the common diseases:
Leaf Spot
This disease is caused by various fungal pathogens, and symptoms include small, circular, tan to brown spots on the leaves. The spots may merge and cause defoliation in severe cases. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and avoid overhead irrigation. Applying fungicides may also be necessary.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can cause a white powdery growth on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can also cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. Good sanitation and proper plant spacing can help prevent this disease. Fungicides may also be used to manage the disease.
Root Rot
This disease is caused by various soil-borne fungi and can cause wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of the plant. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering and improve drainage. Applying fungicides may also be necessary.
Pest Management
Combretum psidioides Welw. subsp. glabrum Exell can also be affected by various pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. Below are some of the common pests:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can cause yellowing and stippling on the leaves of the plant. They can also produce fine webbing on the leaves. To manage spider mites, you may use a forceful spray of water or insecticidal soap. Applying miticides may also be necessary for severe infestations.
Leaf Miner
Leaf miners are tiny larvae that can burrow into the leaves of the plant, causing "mines" or trails on the leaves. To manage this pest, remove infested leaves and avoid overcrowding of plants. Applying insecticides may also be necessary for severe infestations.
Aphids
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that can suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, causing them to yellow and wilt. They can also produce a sticky substance called honeydew that can attract other pests. To manage aphids, you may use a forceful spray of water or insecticidal soap. Applying insecticides may also be necessary for severe infestations.
