Overview
Commiphora candidula Sprague is a small to medium-sized tree that belongs to the Burseraceae family. It is native to East Africa, where it can be found in dry, rocky areas at altitudes between 500-1,600 meters.
Common Names
Commiphora candidula Sprague is commonly known as the White Myrrh tree or Mbere in Swahili.
Uses
The resin of the White Myrrh tree is traditionally used in various African cultures for medicinal purposes. It is believed to have antimicrobial properties and is used to treat diarrhea, stomach problems, and skin infections. In addition, the resin is used in the preparation of perfumes and incense.
General Appearance
The White Myrrh tree is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree that can grow up to 8 meters in height. It has a crooked stem with a thin layer of grey-brown bark. The branches are twisted and have many small thorns. The leaves are simple, alternate and contain three leaflets. The flowers are small and white, and the fruit is a small, round capsule that contains one or two seeds. The resin of the tree is pale yellow to white.
Light Requirements
The Commiphora candidula Sprague plant thrives well under full sun to partial shade. To achieve optimal growth and development, the plant requires at least six hours of sunlight every day. In areas with extremely hot temperatures, it is advisable to provide partial shade to prevent damage to the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The Commiphora candidula Sprague plant grows well in tropical and subtropical regions. It requires warm temperatures for optimal growth, with a minimum temperature of about 15°C during the day and 10°C at night. During the winter season, when temperatures drop drastically, it is advisable to move the plant indoors or cover it with protective clothing.
Soil Requirements
The Commiphora candidula Sprague plant thrives well in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil should be moist, but not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot and subsequently kill the plant. The pH range of the soil should be between 6.5 to 7.5. Add compost to the soil to improve drainage and nutrient content.
Cultivation of Commiphora candidula Sprague
Commiphora candidula Sprague is a small shrub that is native to the rocky terrains of Ethiopia. To cultivate this plant, it is essential to replicate its natural habitat as closely as possible.
The first step in cultivating this plant is to ensure that the soil in the planting area is well-draining, sandy, and slightly alkaline. You can achieve this by adding sand and lime to the soil. The ideal pH range for the soil is between 7.5 and 8.5.
The plant prefers full sun and can tolerate high temperatures during the day and chilly nights. Therefore, it can be grown in both hot and cold climates.
Watering needs of Commiphora candidula Sprague
Commiphora candidula Sprague is a drought-resistant plant, and it can tolerate short periods of dryness. However, during the growing season, the plant needs regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
The frequency of watering depends on the climate and humidity levels. If you live in a hot and dry climate, you may need to water the plant once a week. In a more humid climate, you may only need to water once every ten days.
Fertilization of Commiphora candidula Sprague
The plant does not require any fertilizer during the first year of growth. After the first year, a small amount of slow-release fertilizer can be added during the growing season.
Avoid adding too much fertilizer as it can lead to lush growth, making the plant susceptible to pest and disease attacks.
Pruning of Commiphora candidula Sprague
Pruning this plant is not mandatory, but it can help improve its growth. The best time to prune is during the dormant season when the plant is not actively growing.
Remove any dead or diseased branches, as well as crossing branches that can lead to damage. You can also lightly prune to shape the plant. Avoid excessive pruning as it can harm the plant and reduce its growth rate.
Propagation of Commiphora candidula Sprague
Commiphora candidula Sprague is a plant that belongs to the Burseraceae family. It is known for its various medicinal properties, making it an important plant species. To propagate the plant, several methods can be used, including:
Seed propagation
The most popular method of propagation for Commiphora candidula Sprague is through seeds. The seeds are collected from matured plants, and it is advisable to use fresh seeds as old seeds may take a longer period to germinate. The seeds are then cleaned, dipped in water and planted in fertile, well-drained soil. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 1 cm, and the soil should be kept moist throughout the germination process. Germination usually takes about 2-4 weeks, and after germination, the seedlings should be watered regularly.
Cuttings propagation
Cuttings propagation is another method used to propagate Commiphora candidula Sprague. This method is mostly used when there are limited seeds, or when seeds are not viable. The cuttings should be taken during the growing season, and care should be taken to ensure that the cuttings are taken from healthy plants. The cuttings should be about 8-10 cm long, and all leaves except the upper two should be removed. The cuttings are then dipped in rooting hormone and planted in well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist until signs of rooting are noticed.
Division propagation
Division propagation is a method used to produce plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant. It involves the separation of the roots and stems of the parent plant. This method is mostly used for mature plants that have a well-established root system. The parent plant is gently removed from the soil, and the stems and roots are divided into several parts. Each part is then planted in separate containers, and the plants are watered regularly until they are well established.
In conclusion, Commiphora candidula Sprague can be propagated through various methods, including seed propagation, cuttings propagation and division propagation. The choice of propagation method depends on available resources and experience. A good understanding of the plant's basic requirements, such as water, light, and nutrients, is essential for successful propagation.
Disease Management
The plant Commiphora candidula Sprague is generally resistant to diseases. However, in some cases, it can be affected by some diseases that can affect its health and productivity. One of the most common diseases affecting this plant is leaf spot. It is caused by a fungus and characterized by yellowing and browning of leaves. Other diseases that can affect this plant include root rot and powdery mildew.
To manage leaf spot, it is recommended to remove and destroy all infected leaves to prevent the spread of the disease. In case of severe infection, it is advisable to use fungicides. Root rot can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering. Powdery mildew, on the other hand, can be controlled through the use of fungicides and regular pruning to improve air circulation.
Pest Management
Aside from diseases, Commiphora candidula Sprague can also be affected by various pests that can cause serious damage to the plant. One of the most common pests affecting this plant is the spider mite. It can cause yellowing of leaves and the formation of webs, leading to reduced growth and productivity of the plant. Other pests that can infest this plant include mealybugs and scale insects.
To manage spider mites, it is advisable to regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation and to use miticides to control their population. Mealybugs and scale insects can be controlled by using insecticidal soaps and neem oil, and by manually removing them using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Regularly cleaning the plant and maintaining good hygiene practices can also help prevent pest infestations. Additionally, it is essential to provide the plant with the appropriate growing conditions, such as adequate sunlight, proper watering, and soil with good drainage, to keep it healthy and resilient against pests and diseases.
