Overview of Combretum viscosum Exell
Combretum viscosum Exell is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the Combretaceae family. It is a tropical plant that is commonly found in East and West Africa, particularly in the savannah regions. It is also known by several other names such as the sticky bushwillow, mwavuli, and umkhiwa in different regions where it grows.
Appearance of Combretum viscosum Exell
The sticky bushwillow grows up to a height of 2 to 8 meters and has a diameter of approximately 30 cm. It has a straight trunk and a rounded crown with several branches. The leaves of the plant are simple, opposite, and grow up to 8 cm in length and 4 cm in width. They are dark green and shiny on the upper surface and grayish-green on the underside.
The flowers of Combretum viscosum Exell are small, yellowish-white, and occur in clusters at the end of the branches. The plant produces fruit in the form of a five-ribbed capsule that contains small, winged seeds that are dispersed by wind.
Uses of Combretum viscosum Exell
The sticky bushwillow has many traditional uses in African medicine. The plant’s bark, roots, and leaves have been used to treat various ailments such as fever, diarrhea, dysentery, and coughs. The leaves have also been used to treat headache and toothache, and the bark used as a remedy for snake bites.
Combretum viscosum Exell also has several non-medical uses. The wood of the plant is used for fuel and making charcoal, while the branches are used for fencing and as poles for building huts and kraals. The plant is also useful for soil stabilization and erosion control owing to its extensive rooting system that holds soil together and prevents soil erosion.
The sticky bushwillow is also grown as an ornamental plant and planted in gardens and parks for its attractive foliage and flowers.
Growth Conditions for Combretum viscosum Exell
As a shrub that belongs to the combretaceae family, Combretum viscosum Exell is a perennial plant that typically grows in savannas, wooded grasslands, and rocky hills. It has a distinctive sticky texture that covers its entire surface. In order to grow and thrive, it requires specific environmental conditions for optimal growth.
Light Requirements
Combretum viscosum Exell requires full sunlight to grow optimally. The plant needs at least six hours of direct sunlight each day, with no shade interruptions. It is therefore important to ensure that the plant is situated in an open area without any nearby trees or tall structures that may block the sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
As a savanna plant, Combretum viscosum Exell thrives in warm temperatures that range from 17 to 25 degrees Celsius. Extremely hot temperatures or frosty conditions can damage or kill the plant. It grows best in areas with moderate humidity levels.
Soil Requirements
Combretum viscosum Exell can grow in a variety of soils provided that they are well-drained. The ideal soil pH for the plant ranges from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 being optimal. The soil should also be rich in nutrients to give the plant sufficient food for growth. The plant requires proper soil aeration to ensure that its roots receive adequate oxygen.
Cultivation Methods
Combretum viscosum Exell grows best in areas with hot, dry climates with well-draining soil. It can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or grafting. If planting from seeds, they should be sown in warm, moist soil and covered lightly with soil. Germination usually occurs in 2-4 weeks. When planting, make sure to leave enough space for the plant to grow. Combretum viscosum Exell can be grown as a shrub or tree, and it can reach heights of up to eight meters.
Watering Needs
Combretum viscosum Exell is drought-tolerant and can survive long periods without water. However, it does best with regular watering during the growing season. It's important not to overwater, as the plant can be susceptible to root rot. When watering, make sure to soak the soil thoroughly, allowing water to reach the roots.
Fertilization
Combretum viscosum Exell doesn't require frequent fertilization. Applying a slow-release fertilizer once a year at the beginning of the growing season can help promote healthy growth. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can promote leafy growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning
Pruning Combretum viscosum Exell can help maintain a desired shape and promote healthy growth. It's best to prune during the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Prune away any dead or diseased branches, as well as any crossing or rubbing branches. You can also prune to control the height and spread of the plant. When pruning, make sure to use sharp, clean tools to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Combretum viscosum Exell
Combretum viscosum Exell, also known as the sticky bushwillow, is a beautiful shrub that can be propagated using various methods.
Seed propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagating Combretum viscosum Exell is through seed propagation. The seeds of this plant can be collected from the fruits. Once collected, the seeds need to undergo seed treatment to improve germination rates. Soaking the seeds in hot water for 24 hours, followed by cold stratification for 3-4 weeks can improve germination rates significantly. After the treatment, the seeds can be planted in well-draining soil with proper sunlight and moisture.
Cuttings
Combretum viscosum Exell can also be propagated through cuttings. Choose a mature and healthy stem and take a cutting that is 6-8 inches long. Remove the lower leaves, dip the stem in rooting hormone, and plant it in sterilized soil mix. Cover the container with a plastic bag to increase humidity and place it in partial sunlight. Once the cutting has established roots, it can be transferred to a bigger container or planted in the ground.
Air-layering
Air-layering is another method of propagation that can be used for Combretum viscosum Exell. Choose a healthy stem and make a small cut near a node. Cover the cut area with moist sphagnum moss or soil mix and wrap it with plastic wrap to maintain moisture. Once roots have formed, the stem can be cut below the root formation and planted in well-draining soil.
Propagation can be a fun and rewarding way to increase the number of Combretum viscosum Exell plants in your garden. It is always important to follow the correct method and maintain proper care for the new plants to ensure successful propagation.
Disease Management for Combretum viscosum Exell
Plant diseases can have a significant impact on Combretum viscosum Exell. Here are some of the most common diseases that may affect the plant and ways to manage them;
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a common disease that affects many plants. It is caused by a fungal pathogen. The infected leaves will have black or brown spots. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the infected leaves. Avoid watering the plant from above, which can help the disease spread.
- Anthracnose: Anthracnose is caused by a fungus and can cause defoliation, cankers, and dieback. Infected leaves will show brown patches. To manage anthracnose, prune infected branches and dispose of them in the trash. Ensure the plant has adequate airflow and avoid overhead watering.
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To control this disease, spray the plant with fungicidal soap and improve air circulation to prevent moisture buildup.
Pest Management for Combretum viscosum Exell
Pests can also damage Combretum viscosum Exell. Here are some of the common pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them;
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that feed on plant sap and secrete honeydew, which promotes the growth of black sooty mold. To control aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water or insecticidal soap. Use natural predators like ladybugs to help control the population.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from a plant. They are easily identified by their white, cotton-like coating. To control them, remove the bugs using a cotton swab dipped in 70% alcohol or a strong jet of water.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that may appear as small red or brown dots on the leaves. They feed by piercing the leaves and sucking out the plant's fluids. To manage spider mites, use a spray of water to dislodge the mites or apply a miticide.
