Overview
Commiphora boiviniana Engl. var. crenata Engl. is a rare species of plant from the Burseraceae family. It is native to Madagascar and is found in the dry forests of the south and southwest regions of the island.
Common Names
The plant is locally known as "Fiakarana" in Madagascar.
Appearance
Commiphora boiviniana Engl. var. crenata Engl. is a small to medium-sized tree that can reach up to 10 meters tall. The bark is rough and greyish-brown in color. The leaves are simple, alternate, and have serrated margins. The flowers are small and greenish-white in color. The fruit is a small, round, and fleshy drupe that turns from green to dark brown when ripe.
Uses
The resin of Commiphora boiviniana Engl. var. crenata Engl. is used in traditional medicine in Madagascar to treat various ailments such as respiratory infections, coughs, and digestive disorders. It is also used as incense during religious rituals. The wood is used for construction and fuel.
Growth Conditions of Commiphora Boiviniana Engl. var. Crenata Engl.
Commiphora Boiviniana Engl. var. Crenata Engl. is a shrub that requires specific growth conditions to thrive. Here are the essential elements:
Light Requirements
Commiphora Boiviniana Engl. var. Crenata Engl. requires plenty of sunlight to grow. Therefore, the ideal location for this plant would be in a place where it can receive about 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Inadequate light can diminish growth, making the plant look pale with stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires a warm and dry climate to grow optimally. The minimum temperature required for Commiphora Boiviniana Engl. var. Crenata Engl. to grow is 20°C. If the temperature drops below this mark, the growth will slow down. Moreover, quick temperature changes can cause defoliation, so you should avoid placing the plant near air conditioning ducts, open windows, or doors.
Soil Requirements
Commiphora Boiviniana Engl. var. Crenata Engl. is adapted to grow in rocky and sandy soil with good drainage. It can also grow well in poor-quality soil, but it's best to enrich it with organic matter to enhance the soil's nutrient content. Additionally, the pH level should range from slightly acidic to neutral.
It's always important to note that young plants require more care and attention than mature plants. As such, you should consider watering young plants more often than their adult counterparts while ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Cultivation Methods
Commiphora boiviniana Engl. var. crenata Engl., commonly known as the myrrh tree, is a hardy plant that thrives in hot and dry environments. It is a slow-growing tree that can reach up to 6 meters in height, and it is native to Madagascar. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun to light shade. It can be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings. In the case of stem cuttings, they can be planted directly into the soil or grown in pots until they are ready to be transplanted.
Watering Needs
When it comes to watering, it is important to note that the myrrh tree is drought-tolerant. However, it does need occasional watering during periods of prolonged dryness. The tree should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and ultimately kill the plant.
Fertilization
Although the myrrh tree is able to grow in poor soils, fertilization can help improve its growth and development. A slow-release fertilizer can be applied once a year in the spring before new growth begins. Alternatively, organic fertilizers such as compost or well-rotted manure can be added to the soil. It is important not to over-fertilize as it can lead to excessive growth and weak branches.
Pruning
Pruning is not essential for the myrrh tree, but it can help to maintain its shape and promote bushier growth. It is best to prune the myrrh tree during the dormant season in late winter or early spring. Dead, diseased, or damaged branches should be removed, as well as any branches that are crossing and rubbing against one another. To promote bushier growth, the tips of the branches can be pruned back by one-third of their length.
Propagation methods for Commiphora boiviniana Engl. var. crenata Engl.
Commiphora boiviniana Engl. var. crenata Engl. is a valuable source of essential oil, resin, and medicinal compounds. It is a resilient tropical tree, which is drought-tolerant and adaptable to a range of soil types. Here are the propagation methods available for Commiphora boiviniana:
1. Seeds
The most common and convenient way of propagation of Commiphora boiviniana is through seeds. Seeds must be collected from mature berries, which are dark brown and contain a single seed. Seeds must be cleaned and treated with hot water, to enhance germination. After treatment, the seeds are sown in a pot or nursery at a depth of 1 to 2 centimeters, and watered regularly until germination, which may take up to a month or two. Once the saplings reach a height of 20-30 centimeters, they can be transplanted to the field or garden.
2. Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is an effective way of propagating Commiphora boiviniana if seed availability is limited. Cuttings must be taken from 10-15 cm long branches with mature leaves. The cuttings are preferably taken in the rainy season, as this time favors root initiation. The cuttings are treated with rooting hormones and planted in a nursery of well-drained soil. The cuttings are watered regularly until they establish roots, which may take up to 3-4 months. Once rooted, the saplings can be transplanted in the field or garden.
3. Grafting
Grafting is an effective way of propagating Commiphora boiviniana if seedling or cutting availability is limited. Two methods of grafting can be applied: T-budding and cleft or wedge grafting. Both methods require a healthy rootstock, which is often Commiphora gileadensis or Commiphora africana, and a scion from a mature and healthy tree of Commiphora boiviniana. The best time for grafting is in the early rainy season. The grafted saplings must be regularly monitored for disease and pests, and pruned to maintain the desired height and shape.
Disease Management
Commiphora boiviniana Engl. var. crenata Engl. is prone to various diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
Leaf Spot Disease
Leaf spot disease can be identified by the presence of circular or irregular brown or black spots and can cause the plant's leaves to fall prematurely. Fungicides like copper-based sprays, chlorothalonil, and mancozeb can be sprayed on the plant when it shows its first signs to prevent further spread. The best way to avoid leaf spot disease is to avoid frequent wetting of the leaves.
Root Rot
Root rot can be identified when the plant shows stunted growth, yellowed leaves, and eventually, the plant will die. This disease is caused by a pathogenic fungus present in the soil, and it thrives on moist soil conditions. The best way to manage root rot in Commiphora boiviniana Engl. var. crenata Engl. is to avoid overwatering and ensure proper soil drainage. If the plant is already infected, remove the affected leaves and stems and improve the drainage system to prevent further spread.
Pest Management
Commiphora boiviniana Engl. var. crenata Engl. is also vulnerable to various pests that can cause significant damage to the plant's health and vigor. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Mites
Mites can be recognized by the presence of fine webbing and can cause defoliation of the plant if left untreated. Miticides like insecticidal soap, neem oil, and botanical insecticides can be sprayed directly on the plant when mites are detected to kill them along with their eggs.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars can be identified by the presence of holes in the leaves and can cause severe damage to the plant's foliage if left untreated. Bacillus thuringiensis (BT), a biological control, can be sprayed on the plant to kill the caterpillars without damaging the beneficial insects. Synthetic insecticides such as acephate and carbaryl can also be used, but it is essential to use them with caution to avoid killing the plant as well as beneficial insects.
Regular monitoring and applying preventive measures ensure healthy plant growth and reduce the damage caused by pests and diseases in Commiphora boiviniana Engl. var. crenata Engl.
