Origin and Common Names
Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. wajirensis J.B.Gillett is a rare and unique species of plant that belongs to the Burseraceae family. It is native to the Horn of Africa region, specifically found in northeastern Kenya, where it thrives in arid and semi-arid habitats. The plant is commonly known as the Wajir myrrh or simply the Wajir Commiphora.
Appearance
The Wajir Commiphora is a small, deciduous tree, typically growing up to 8 meters tall, with a single or several trunks. Its bark is grey and rough, covered in corky fissures. The leaves are pinnate, alternate, and clustered at the end of branches, with each leaf composed of 3–7 leaflets. The plant produces small, white flowers that are densely clustered in short spikes, which eventually lead to the formation of a fruit. The fruit is a red-brown capsule that contains numerous small, black seeds.
Uses
The Wajir Commiphora has a rich cultural history and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The plant's bark, resin, and leaves are highly valued for their medicinal properties, which are believed to aid in the treatment of various ailments. The resin is commonly used in perfumes, incense, and as a flavoring agent in food and beverages. Additionally, the plant's roots are used to make chewing sticks, which are used as a natural toothbrush. The Wajir Commiphora also has ecological significance, where it acts as a primary source of food for grazing livestock, particularly during the dry season when other food sources are scarce.
Growth Conditions for Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. wajirensis J.B.Gillett
Light: Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. wajirensis J.B.Gillett grows well in bright sunlight. It thrives in full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade.
Temperature: This plant grows well in hot and dry climates and can tolerate high temperatures up to 50?. It does not tolerate freezing temperatures and is recommended to be grown in warm regions.
Soil: Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. wajirensis J.B.Gillett prefers well-draining soils and can thrive in poor and rocky soils. Growing this plant in water-logged soils can cause root rot. It is best to use sandy or loamy soils mixed with gravel or rocks to improve drainage.
Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and can survive prolonged periods without water. It is recommended to water it sparingly during the growing season and to keep the soil dry during the dormant season. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, so it is important to allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Fertilizer: Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. wajirensis J.B.Gillett does not require regular fertilization. However, applying a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season will assist in promoting growth and development.
Propagation: The plant can be propagated from stem cuttings or seeds. Cuttings should be taken in the spring or early summer while the plant is actively growing. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil in early spring.
Cultivation Methods for Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. wajirensis J.B.Gillett
Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. wajirensis J.B.Gillett is a hardy plant that can grow in arid and semiarid environments. To cultivate this plant in your garden, choose an area with well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It is also essential to avoid low-lying areas that are prone to waterlogging.
Watering Needs for Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. wajirensis J.B.Gillett
Although Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. wajirensis J.B.Gillett is drought-tolerant, it requires regular watering to establish well. Water the plant deeply every week or two during its first year of growth. Afterward, watering this plant once every two or three weeks is sufficient. However, avoid overwatering the plant as it can easily rot in waterlogged soils.
Fertilization for Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. wajirensis J.B.Gillett
Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. wajirensis J.B.Gillett is a plant that can do well without abundant fertilization. Fertilize the soil with organic manure or compost once a year during early spring. Avoid using too much nitrogen fertilizer, as this can lead to soft growth that is prone to pest and disease attack.
Pruning for Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. wajirensis J.B.Gillett
Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. wajirensis J.B.Gillett is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal pruning. Prune the plant lightly every two or three years to remove any dead or diseased branches. Avoid severe pruning as it can damage this plant's trunk or lead to sunburn on the leave and branches.
Propagation Methods
Propagation of Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. wajirensis J.B.Gillett can be done by two primary methods: Seeds and stem cuttings. However, the plant responds best to stem cuttings over seeds, which may require certain conditions to germinate.
Propagation by Seeds
To propagate the plant by seeds, you can sow them in a well-draining soil mix such as a 1:1 combination of sand and peat. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and maintain a temperature of around 25°C. After 2-3 weeks, the seeds should germinate.
Once the seedlings have produced at least two sets of true leaves, transplant them into individual pots filled with a well-draining soil mix.
It should be noted that germination by seeds is often low and unpredictable. Additionally, the plant can take up to three years to reach maturity and start producing resin.
Propagation by Cuttings
The most effective propagation method for Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. wajirensis J.B.Gillett is by stem cuttings. You can take semi-hardwood cuttings of about 10-15 cm long and at least 5 mm in diameter from the plant's current year's growth.
Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end of the stem in a rooting hormone. Place the cutting in a pot or tray filled with moist sand or perlite. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a partially shaded area until roots develop.
Once the cuttings have developed strong roots, transplant them into individual pots or out in the garden. Remember to water regularly until the new plants become established.
Propagation by cuttings allows for a higher success rate and faster growth of the plant compared to seed propagation.
Disease and Pest Management for Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. wajirensis J.B.Gillett
Commiphora campestris Engl. subsp. wajirensis J.B.Gillett is a hardy plant that is not prone to many diseases and pests. However, the following are some diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
Bacterial leaf spot: The disease causes small, circular spots on leaves, which turn yellow and then brown. It can lead to defoliation in severe cases. To manage bacterial leaf spot, remove and destroy the infected leaves, avoid overhead watering, and sanitize tools to prevent spreading the disease.
Phytophthora root rot: The disease affects the roots and stems of the plant, causing wilting, yellowing, and stunting. To manage phytophthora root rot, avoid overwatering, improve the drainage of the soil, and treat the plant with fungicides.
Common Pests
Mites: The pests cause discoloration, stunted growth, and defoliation. To manage mites, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Aphids: The pests suck the sap from leaves, causing curling, yellowing, and stunted growth. To manage aphids, spray the plant with water or insecticidal soap.
Caterpillars: The pests eat the leaves of the plant, causing defoliation. To manage caterpillars, remove them by hand or spray the plant with Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis).
