Overview
Commiphora edulis (Klotzsch) Engl. subsp. boiviniana (Engl.) J.B.Gillett is a botanical species of the genus Commiphora, which is found in Madagascar, Africa. It is also known by its common names such as Boivine's Myrrh, Kimburu, or Mjlitoa.Appearance
The plant Commiphora edulis (Klotzsch) Engl. subsp. boiviniana (Engl.) J.B.Gillett is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 8 meters high. The bark is rough and brown, sometimes with thin vertical cracks. The branches are twigs bearing many small leaflets with a pale-green color. The inflorescence is a raceme of tiny red or pinkish flowers that bloom between August and October.Uses
Boivine's Myrrh has a long history of traditional use for medicinal and cultural purposes in African countries. The gum resin obtained from the trees is used as a flavoring, perfume, spice, and incense. It is also used to treat various ailments such as cough, fever, diarrhea, and stomach disorders. The essential oil of the plant has been reported to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for the treatment of infections and wounds. The resinous sap of Commiphora edulis (Klotzsch) Engl. subsp. boiviniana (Engl.) J.B.Gillett is also used in some cultures as a chewing gum. It is considered as a valuable and rare commodity, and the harvesting of the sap is an important activity for some communities in Africa.Conclusion
Commiphora edulis (Klotzsch) Engl. subsp. boiviniana (Engl.) J.B.Gillett is a fascinating plant species with a rich cultural history and diverse uses. Its medicinal and aromatic properties, combined with its unique appearance, make it an interesting addition to any botanical collection.Light Requirements
Commiphora edulis subsp. boiviniana belongs to the family Burseraceae and prefers full sunlight to partial shade. This plant can tolerate high levels of light intensity and grow well in areas with direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires tropical to subtropical climate to grow and thrive. The optimal temperature range for growth is between 25°C to 35°C. The plant cannot tolerate frost or low temperatures and requires warm and humid climate to grow successfully.
Soil Requirements
Commiphora edulis subsp. boiviniana thrives in well-draining soils with good water-holding capacity. The plant prefers sandy to clayey soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should not be waterlogged or have a high saline content, as this can damage the plant's roots and affect its growth.
Cultivation Methods
Commiphora edulis subsp. boiviniana is a slow-growing and drought-resistant small tree or shrub. It prefers warm and dry environments and is commonly found in semi-arid areas of Africa and the Middle East.
The plant grows well in well-drained soils, preferably sandy or stony, with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. It requires ample sunlight and temperatures above 20°C.
Propagation can be done through seeds or stem cuttings. Seedlings can be grown in pots before transplanting.
Watering Needs
Commiphora edulis subsp. boiviniana is adapted to low rainfall areas and can withstand long periods of drought. However, regular watering during the establishment phase (1-2 years) is advisable to promote growth and good root development.
Watering intervals should be spaced apart according to the plant’s needs and environmental conditions. Checking the soil moisture level using a soil moisture meter or testing the soil’s moisture content with your hands can ensure optimal watering practices.
Fertilization
Fertilization is generally not necessary for the plant to grow well, as it can adapt and thrive in poor soil conditions. However, in case of nutrient deficiencies, applying organic or inorganic fertilizers in small quantities can help to improve growth and yield.
Soils that are low in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be amended accordingly. Applying fertilizers during the wet season is recommended to ensure the plant quickly absorbs the nutrients.
Pruning
Pruning can be done to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches, to maintain the plant’s shape, and to promote better air circulation and light penetration.
Pruning should be done during the dry season as the plant is dormant, and the risk of disease is reduced. Use clean and sharp pruning tools to prevent damage to the plant.
It is important not to over-prune the plant, as this can affect its growth and yield. Pruning should be done in moderation and in a way that does not damage the stem or branches.
Propagation of Commiphora edulis subsp. boiviniana
Commiphora edulis subsp. boiviniana is a useful plant with several medicinal properties. The propagation of this plant can be done by using the following methods:
Seed propagation
Propagation through seeds is the most common method of propagation for Commiphora edulis subsp. boiviniana. The seeds are usually collected during the fruiting season, which occurs between January and April. The seeds should be sown in well-drained soil and covered with a thin layer of sand or vermiculite to maintain moisture levels. The seeds can be expected to germinate within 2-4 weeks and produce young plants ready for transplanting after 6 months.
Cuttings propagation
Cuttings propagation is another method of propagating Commiphora edulis subsp. boiviniana. The cuttings should be taken from the current season's growth as the older wood may not root. The cuttings should be dipped into rooting hormone and placed into well-drained potting soil. Cover the soil and the cutting with a plastic bag to create a greenhouse effect. The cuttings should be watered regularly and kept in a sheltered location. Within 4-6 weeks, the cuttings should have developed roots and can be transplanted into bigger pots or directly to a field.
Air-layering propagation
Air-layering propagation is another method of propagating Commiphora edulis subsp. boiviniana. An incision should be made on the bark of a mature branch and covered with soil, humus or compost, and wrapped with a plastic bag to lock moisture. The growing point will develop roots and a new plantlet. This method of propagation is slow and takes longer compared to the other methods mentioned above, but it produces a larger plant.
Disease Management
The plant Commiphora edulis subsp. boiviniana can be affected by several diseases which may lead to a reduction and loss of yield. Some of the common diseases that can affect this plant are:
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that can cause leaf spots, stem cankers, and blights. It can be managed by avoiding overhead watering, removing and destroying infected plant parts, and applying fungicides.
- Root Rot: This is a disease caused by fungal pathogens that can affect the roots of the plant. It can be managed by planting in well-draining soil, avoiding overwatering, and applying fungicides.
- Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. It can be managed by improving air circulation around the plant, removing and destroying infected plant parts, and applying fungicides.
Pest Management
There are several pests that can attack the plant Commiphora edulis subsp. boiviniana. Some of the common pests that can affect the plant are:
- Aphids: These are small insects that can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth. They can be managed by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These are tiny pests that can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. They can be managed by improving the humidity around the plant, removing and destroying infected plant parts, and spraying with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Thrips: These are small insects that can cause distorted growth and discoloration of the plant. They can be managed by improving the humidity around the plant, removing and destroying infected plant parts, and spraying with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Regular monitoring of the plant for diseases and pests is important for early detection and management. Proper cultural practices such as proper watering and fertilization can also help the plant to stay healthy and resistant to diseases and pests.
