Origin
Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. shinyangensis J.B.Gillett is a species of plant in the Burseraceae family and is native to Tanzania, where it grows in open woodland and scrubland.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as the Shinyanga myrrh, named after the area in Tanzania where it is commonly found.
Uses
The resin from the Shinyanga myrrh has been used for medicinal purposes, including being used as a treatment for diarrhea and skin infections. The resin has also been used as a natural insect repellent and as a flavoring for food.
General Appearance
Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. shinyangensis J.B.Gillett is a small deciduous tree that grows up to 5 meters tall. The bark is smooth and grayish-brown in color. The leaves are simple, alternate, and oblong in shape, with a length of 3-7 cm. The flowers are small and white, and the fruit is a drupe that is 1-1.5 cm in diameter, with a reddish-brown color.
Light Requirements
The Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. shinyangensis J.B.Gillett also known as the Shinyanga Myrrh is a sun-loving plant. Therefore, it grows well in bright light conditions and requires plenty of direct sunlight for optimal growth. This plant should be grown in an area where it could receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day.
Temperature Requirements
The Shinyanga Myrrh plant is capable of tolerating high temperatures, and it is reputed for thriving in hot conditions. It prefers warm temperatures, and it can grow well in an average temperature range of 18°C to 35°C. It can tolerate occasional drops in temperature but is only suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 10 through 12.
Soil Requirements
The Shinyanga Myrrh plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH level of 6.5 to 7.5. Soil with good drainage is important because the plant does not like sitting in waterlogged soil. The soil type should be sandy or loamy to aid drainage. An appropriate soil mix for this plant may include a blend of sand, loam, and peat moss.
Cultivation Methods
Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. shinyangensis J.B.Gillett can be grown successfully in warm climates with well-drained soil and full sunlight. The plant has a high tolerance to drought and can grow in various types of soils, including sandy and rocky soils. Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. shinyangensis J.B.Gillett can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. Seeds are usually soaked in water for 24 hours before planting. Cuttings are usually taken from young shoots and need to be planted in well-draining soil.
Watering Needs
Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. shinyangensis J.B.Gillett requires moderate watering during the growing season. However, the plant has high drought tolerance and can survive extended periods of drought. Overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot. It is recommended to water the plant deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
Fertilization
Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. shinyangensis J.B.Gillett does not require heavy fertilization. However, a light application of a balanced fertilizer can be given during the growing season to encourage healthy growth. It is recommended to avoid fertilizing during periods of drought or extreme heat as this can lead to root burn.
Pruning
Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. shinyangensis J.B.Gillett requires minimal pruning. Pruning should only be done to remove any dead or damaged branches. The plant can also be pruned to maintain its shape or size. Pruning should be done during the dormant season to avoid stress to the plant.
Propagation of Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. shinyangensis J.B.Gillett
The propagation of Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. shinyangensis J.B.Gillett can be accomplished through various means:
Seed Propagation
Seeds can be used to propagate Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. shinyangensis J.B.Gillett. The seeds should be collected from mature trees during the dry season. They should be cleaned and sown in a well-prepared seedbed with well-draining soil. The seedlings should be transplanted to their permanent position when they are large enough to handle.
Cutting Propagation
Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. shinyangensis J.B.Gillett can be propagated through cuttings. Hardwood cuttings taken during the dormant season have been found to be successful in propagating the plant. The cutting should be treated with rooting hormones and planted in a well-prepared rooting medium. The cutting should be kept moist but not too wet, and high humidity should be provided. Once the cutting has rooted, it can be transplanted to its permanent position.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting can be used to propagate Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. shinyangensis J.B.Gillett onto rootstock from related species. This method typically produces stronger and more vigorous plants. The scion should be taken from a mature tree during the dormant season and grafted onto a suitable rootstock. The graft should be kept moist and protected until it is established.
Overall, Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. shinyangensis J.B.Gillett can be propagated through various methods, including seed propagation, cutting propagation, and grafting propagation. Each method has its pros and cons, and the propagator should evaluate which method would be most suitable for their situation.
Disease and Pest Management for Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. shinyangensis J.B.Gillett
Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. shinyangensis J.B.Gillett is a relatively hardy plant that grows well in most environments, but it can still be prone to certain pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common ones:
Pests
Spider mites: These tiny pests can be difficult to spot but can cause extensive damage if left untreated. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil
Mealybugs: Mealybugs can cause stunted growth and leaves to drop. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil
Scale insects: These pests can weaken the plant by sucking its sap. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Diseases
Leaf spot: This disease is caused by a fungus and can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves. The affected leaves should be removed, and a fungicide can be applied to prevent further infections.
Root rot: Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, which can lead to wilting, yellowing leaves, and stunted growth. To avoid this, make sure the soil is well-draining and water the plant only when the topsoil is dry to the touch.
Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. It can be controlled by keeping the leaves dry and ensuring good air circulation.
To minimize pest and disease problems, it is important to keep the plant healthy by providing it with proper lighting, adequate water, and well-draining soil. Regularly inspecting the plant for signs of pests and diseases can also help catch any problems early before they become too severe.
