Commiphora Calciicola Engl.: A Detailed Description
Commiphora calciicola Engl., also known as the calcium-loving myrrh, is a shrub species from the Burseraceae family. This plant is endemic to the coastal region of Kenya, specifically in the Kwale and Kilifi counties. It is a rare and threatened species due to habitat loss and degradation caused by human activities such as deforestation, urbanization, and agriculture.
General Appearance
The plant has a distinct tree-like appearance, growing up to 5 meters high. It has a smooth and grey bark and a thin canopy of leaves with a leathery texture. The leaves are oblong-elliptic in shape, about 5-7 mm long, and have a glossy dark-green color. The plant also has a unique habit of exuding resin that covers the stem and leaves, giving it a characteristic aromatic smell.
Common Names and Uses
The plant is known by several common names, including Mbeli in Swahili, Calcium-dependent myrrh, and Coastal myrrh. The resin from this plant has been used traditionally by the local communities in Kenya for medicinal purposes. The resin is believed to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties and has been used to treat various ailments such as toothache and skin infections. The resin also has cultural significance and is used in traditional rituals and ceremonies.
In conclusion, Commiphora calciicola Engl. is a rare and threatened plant species endemic to the coastal region of Kenya. It is a unique and aromatic plant with several medicinal and cultural uses that make it important for conservation and protection.
Light Requirements
Commiphora calciicola is a sun-loving plant and needs full sunlight exposure to grow and thrive. The plant requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight in a day. Therefore, it is best to position the plant where it can get maximum sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Commiphora calciicola is a plant that grows well in warm temperatures. The plant thrives in temperatures between 25°C and 30°C. Nonetheless, the plant can survive in temperatures as low as 10°C and as high as 45°C but may not grow well in such extreme temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-drained, slightly acidic to basic soil to grow. A pH range of 6.0 to 8.0 is optimal for the plant. The soil should also be loose, moist, and rich in nutrients. Sandy loam or loamy soil is ideal for this plant. It is imperative to ensure that the soil's drainage is perfect since stagnant water can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Commiphora calciicola Engl. is a hardy plant that grows best in arid or semi-arid regions. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun exposure. The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 20-30 degrees Celsius.
To cultivate the plant, it is recommended to sow the seeds in the spring once the soil has warmed up. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil or in pots. It is important to keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which could take up to two weeks.
Watering Needs
Commiphora calciicola Engl. is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. It is important to ensure that the soil is well-drained, as the plant does not tolerate water-logging. During the growth phase, it may need a moderate amount of water, but it should be reduced during the dormant phase.
It is recommended to water the plant once a week or whenever the soil dries out. To prevent water-logging, it is advisable to allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions.
Fertilization
Commiphora calciicola Engl. does not require frequent fertilization. The plant thrives in poor soils and may not respond well to heavy fertilization. However, applying a small amount of a balanced fertilizer during the growth phase may help encourage plant growth.
It is recommended to apply the fertilizer in early spring and late summer. It is important to avoid applying the fertilizer directly to the plant roots and to water the soil immediately after applying the fertilizer.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Commiphora calciicola Engl. However, removing dead or damaged branches may help promote plant growth. It is important to use clean and sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. It is recommended to prune during the dormant phase for best results.
It is important to note that the sap of Commiphora calciicola Engl. is resinous and can be irritating to the skin. Wearing gloves and long sleeves is recommended when pruning.
Propagation of Commiphora calciicola Engl.
Commiphora calciicola Engl., also known as the limestone myrrh, is a rare and endangered plant species that mainly occurs within calcareous rocky sites.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Commiphora calciicola is through its seeds. The seeds can be collected from mature fruits that have turned brownish-red or black. After collecting, they should be cleaned and dried in the shade for a few days.
Before sowing, the seeds should be softened by soaking them in lukewarm water for 24 hours. After this, they can be sown in a mixture of well-draining sandy soil and organic matter. The pot should be placed in a warm and bright location away from direct sunlight.
Within two to three weeks, the seeds should germinate, and after a few months, they will establish a good root system.
Cuttings Propagation
The second method of propagation is through cuttings. It involves taking stem cuttings from a mature plant, which is then planted to grow a new plant.
The cuttings should be taken from mature, woody stems during the growing season in summer. The cutting should be 6 to 8 inches long and should be taken just below a node. The lower leaves should be stripped off, and the cutting should be allowed to dry and develop a callus for a few days.
The prepared cutting can then be planted in a well-draining sandy soil and placed in a warm and bright location away from direct sunlight. Mist the cutting regularly until it starts to grow new leaves.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another method of propagating Commiphora calciicola. It involves wounding the stem and wrapping it with moist sphagnum moss to develop roots at the wound site.
The stem to be air layered should be selected during the growing season in summer when the bark is slipping easily from the wood. A section of bark about 2 to 3 inches long should be removed in a ring, and the exposed wood should be dusted with rooting hormone.
The wound should then be wrapped with moist sphagnum moss and covered with plastic to keep the moisture. After a few weeks, roots will grow from the wound site, and the stem can be cut below the new root system and transferred into a well-draining sandy soil.
The propagation of Commiphora calciicola is quite challenging but rewarding. The most successful method of propagation is seed propagation, followed by cuttings propagation and air layering propagation.
Disease and Pest Management for Commiphora calciicola Engl.
Commiphora calciicola Engl. is a species of plant that is quite hardy and disease-resistant compared to other plants. However, there are still some common pests and diseases that might affect the plant. Proper management strategies are essential to keep the plant healthy and productive.
Common Diseases
Some of the most common diseases that can affect Commiphora calciicola Engl. include leaf blight, root rot, and powdery mildew. Leaf blight is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant, causing yellowing and wilting. Root rot is another fungal disease that affects the roots, causing stunted growth and wilted leaves. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant.
Disease Management
To manage these diseases, it is important to maintain good sanitation practices and prevent overcrowding of plants. Remove any infected leaves or stems as soon as possible and dispose of them properly. A fungicide treatment can also help prevent and control fungal diseases.
Common Pests
Some of the most common pests that can affect Commiphora calciicola Engl. include aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing, stunted growth, and distortion. Spider mites are tiny mites that cause yellowing and webbing on the plant. Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and stunted growth.
Pest Management
The best way to manage these pests is to maintain good plant hygiene and regular monitoring. Remove any infected plant parts and dispose of them properly. Introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings to control aphids and spider mites. For severe infestations, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the pests.
