Overview of Commiphora Cyclophylla Chiov.
Commiphora cyclophylla Chiov. is a perennial small tree that belongs to the Burseraceae family. It is commonly known as "Gum dhidin" in Somalia and "Mchihili" in Kenya.
Origin and Distribution
This plant is mainly found in East African countries such as Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia. It grows in dry regions mainly in sandy soils, rocky places, and shrublands at an altitude of up to 1000 meters above sea level. It is also cultivated in some places for its medicinal properties.
Appearance
The Commiphora cyclophylla Chiov. tree has a short, thick trunk that is highly branched. It is about 3-7 meters tall and forms a dense canopy. The leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate-shaped, measuring about 3-6 cm in length and 1-3 cm in width. The bark is rough, greyish-brown, and exudes a fragrant resin.
The plant has small white flowers that form clusters of about 5-15 cm in length. The fruit is a drupe, which is about 1.5 cm in diameter, round, and contains a single seed. The plant blooms from October to January, and the fruits ripen from February to May.
Uses of Commiphora Cyclophylla Chiov.
The Commiphora cyclophylla Chiov. plant is highly valued for its medicinal properties. The resin extracted from the bark of the tree is used to treat various ailments such as stomach infections, respiratory infections, and skin diseases. The resin is used as a flavoring agent in foods and also as an ingredient in perfumes and soaps.
The wood of the tree is used for making small tools, and the branches are used as fuel. The plant also has cultural significance, where the resin is used in traditional rituals and ceremonies.
The plant has potential in the cosmetic industry as an ingredient in skincare products. It has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it an effective natural remedy for treating skin conditions.
Light Requirements
Commiphora cyclophylla Chiov. requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and development. In its natural habitat, it often grows in areas with direct exposure to sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures, with a minimum temperature of 15°C and a maximum temperature of 35°C. It can tolerate moderate levels of humidity, but prolonged exposure to moist conditions can lead to fungal infections and other diseases.
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives in well-draining soils with good water retention capacity. It prefers sandy loam soils with a pH range of 6.1 to 7.8. The soil should be rich in organic matter, and proper aeration should be ensured to prevent waterlogging.
Water Requirements
Commiphora cyclophylla Chiov. requires moderate to low watering. Overwatering can cause root rot, while underwatering can lead to stunted growth and wilting. The plant should be watered thoroughly, and the soil should be allowed to dry completely before the next watering cycle.
Fertilizer Requirements
The plant responds well to balanced fertilizers, especially those containing essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilizers should be applied during the growing season, and the dosage should be adjusted based on the plant's age and growth stage.
Cultivation of Commiphora cyclophylla Chiov.
Commiphora cyclophylla Chiov. is a small, drought-tolerant shrub that is relatively easy to cultivate. When planting, choose a site with well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Transplant the seedlings into the soil during the rainy season when the soil is moist.
Watering Needs
Watering young plants frequently will help them establish healthy root systems. Once established, Commiphora cyclophylla Chiov. requires little water and can survive prolonged periods of drought. However, it's important to water the plant during extended dry spells to prevent leaf drop and ensure the plant's stability.
Fertilization
Commiphora cyclophylla Chiov. can benefit from a light application of fertilizer in the spring to promote growth and ensure its healthy development. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. A slow-release fertilizer can be particularly effective, as it will provide nutrients gradually over time.
Pruning
Commiphora cyclophylla Chiov. does not require significant pruning. However, regular pruning can promote the health and good appearance of the plant. Prune the plant annually after it flowers to encourage new growth and to remove dead, damaged, or diseased wood. Shortening long, leggy growth can also help create full, balanced foliage.
Propagation methods of Commiphora cyclophylla Chiov.
Propagation of the plant Commiphora cyclophylla Chiov. is done through various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and grafting.
Propagation through seeds
Seeds are the most common and easiest way to propagate Commiphora cyclophylla Chiov. For successful propagation through seeds, the seeds should be collected from mature fruits in the fall season. After collection, the seeds should be cleaned and soaked in warm water for a few hours before planting. The seeds should be planted in well-drained soil and kept moist until they germinate in 2-3 weeks.
Propagation through cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is done by taking cuttings from the parent plant in early spring. The cuttings should be about 10-20 cm long and should have leaves removed from the bottom half. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in well-drained soil. These cuttings require high humidity, so they should be covered with a clear plastic bag or a small propagator until they root in about 4-6 weeks.
Propagation through grafting
Grafting is the most difficult but effective way to propagate Commiphora cyclophylla Chiov. This method involves joining a scion of the desired plant to a rootstock of a related plant. This method ensures that the plant inherits the best qualities of both plants. Grafting is usually done during the dormant period, and the plants should be watered sparingly until they start to grow.
Disease and Pest Management for Commiphora cyclophylla Chiov.
Commiphora cyclophylla Chiov. is a hardy plant species that is resistant to several pests and diseases. However, like all plants, they are also susceptible to some problems. The following are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases:
Leaf spot disease: This disease can cause black or brown spots on the leaves of the plant, leading to leaf yellowing, defoliation and eventually plant death. To manage this disease, remove and destroy all infected plant parts. Keep the canopy of the plants dry by providing adequate spacing to allow for air circulation, pruning, and avoid over-watering. Apply a fungicide to protect the plant from further infection.
Fungal root rot: This disease can lead to root system decay, plant wilting, and death. Over-watering and poor soil drainage are common causes of this disease. To manage fungal root rot, avoid over-watering or waterlogging the soil. Ensure the plant is in well-draining soil, avoid over-fertilizing and allow the soil to dry between watering. Remove and destroy all infected plant parts and apply a fungicide.
Cankers: Cankers are sunken, dead areas on stems, branches, or other plant parts. They can be caused by fungi, bacteria or other pathogens. To manage cankers, prune out all infected branches, stems or bark to healthy wood. Sanitize pruning tools between cuts and treat the affected parts with a fungicide or bactericide
Common Pests:
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny spider-like pests that suck the sap from leaves, causing yellowing and curling of leaves, and eventually defoliation. To control spider mites, use a systemic insecticide or a horticultural oil spray to smother the insects. Increase humidity around the plants with regular misting, prune off the heavily infested leaves and destroy them.
Scale insects: Scale insects are small pests that attach themselves to the plant and suck its sap, causing the leaves to turn yellow and eventually drop off. To control scale insects, apply horticultural oil spray to smother them. Use a soft-bristled brush to remove the insects, regularly prune out affected plant parts and apply a systemic insecticide.
Thrips: Thrips are tiny winged insects that invade plants and feed on the leaves, causing discoloration and deformation. To control thrips, apply an insecticide that is safe for plants and destructive to insects. Alternatively, install sticky traps to capture the flying thrips and regularly prune out or crush any affected plant parts.
In conclusion, regular monitoring and good cultural practices are crucial to prevent or manage diseases and pests in Commiphora cyclophylla Chiov.. Treating pests and diseases early on can save your plant from an untimely death. So, always be vigilant and proactive in dealing with plant health issues.
