Overview:
Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl. is a tree species that belongs to the Burseraceae family. It is commonly found in East Africa, specifically in Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda. The plant is known for its various uses, including medicinal and cultural.Appearance:
The Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl. tree can grow up to 15 meters tall and has a crooked trunk with resinous bark. The plant has pinnate leaves that are alternately arranged on the stems, and the leaves have a glossy green appearance. The tree produces greenish-white flowers that are small and arranged in clusters. The flowers then develop into round fruits that have a hard outer shell and are filled with seeds.Common Names:
The Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl. plant is known by various common names, including the African elemi, black African elemi, and Kilimanjaro myrrh.Uses:
The Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl. tree has been used for centuries by local communities for its various medicinal properties. The resin extracted from the plant is commonly used to treat wounds, respiratory infections, fever, and stomach issues. The resin also has cultural significance and is used in traditional rituals and ceremonies. Additionally, the Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl. tree is used for its hardwood, which is used in furniture making and as a source of fuel. The tree's leaves and fruits are also used as forage for livestock and wildlife. In conclusion, the Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl. plant is a valuable tree species that has various uses and significance. Its medicinal properties and cultural significance have made it an important species to local communities for centuries.Growth Conditions for Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl.
Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl., commonly known as the Kilimanjaro frankincense tree, is a small- to medium-sized deciduous tree that grows in the African continent. To achieve optimal growth and development, this plant requires specific growth conditions as discussed below:
Light Requirements
Commiphora kilimandscharica prefers full sun exposure. The plant thrives well when grown in areas with a minimum of six hours of sunlight per day. A lack of adequate sunlight can lead to stunted growth and reduced yield. Thus, planting the plant in open and well-lit areas is crucial.
Temperature Requirements
To grow and thrive, Commiphora kilimandscharica requires warm temperatures. The plant is best suited for areas with temperatures ranging between 20°C to 36°C. The Kilimanjaro frankincense tree is sensitive to frost and cannot survive in areas with temperatures below 5°C.
Soil Requirements
Commiphora kilimandscharica grows well in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant prefers soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should have moderate to high fertility levels, with sufficient amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It does well in sandy and loamy soils, although it can survive in rocky soils with good drainage.
Irrigation Requirements
The Kilimanjaro frankincense tree requires moderate to low amounts of water. Overwatering can lead to root rots and fungal diseases, which can compromise the tree's growth and yield. Because the plant is adapted to dry conditions, it can survive extended periods of drought, making it ideal for arid and semi-arid regions. Regular watering is only necessary during the early stages of plant growth and development to ensure proper establishment.
Conclusion
Commiphora kilimandscharica is a plant that requires specific growth conditions for it to grow and thrive. Adequate sunlight exposure, warm temperatures, well-drained soils, and moderate watering are some of the critical factors that contribute to the plant's optimal growth and yield.
Cultivation of Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl.
Cultivating Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl. is best done in regions with warm and dry climates. The plant requires well-draining soils, which can be a blend of coarse sand, clay, and organic matter in a ratio of 1:1:1. Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl. can be grown in containers or in the ground, depending on availability of space.
Watering needs of Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl.
Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl. requires moderate amounts of water, which should be provided every 10-14 days. Overwatering should be avoided as the plant is susceptible to root rot. During the rainy season or when grown in high humidity regions, care should be taken to ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization of Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl.
Application of fertilizers should be done during the growing season, which is spring and summer. Use organic fertilizers such as sheep/goat manure or compost at a rate of 1-2kgs per plant. Inorganic fertilizers can also be used following the direction for rates as per the type of fertilizer used. Care should be taken not to over-fertilize as it can cause damage to the plant.
Pruning of Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl.
Pruning is not necessary for healthy growth of Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl. However, some selective pruning may be done to promote bushy growth and improve the overall plant shape. Prune during the dormant season, which is during autumn and winter. Remove any dead or diseased branches and shape the plant according to the desired form.
Propagation of Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl.
Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl. can be propagated through various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and air layering. The ideal time for propagation is during the rainy season when the soil is moist.
Propagation through seeds
The seeds of Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl. can be collected from mature fruits and sown in the prepared seedbed. The seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before sowing to enhance germination. The seedbed should be placed in a shady area and kept moist until germination occurs, which usually takes around 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings are 6-8 inches tall, they can be transplanted into individual pots or containers.
Propagation through cuttings
Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl. can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Softwood cuttings, which are taken from new growth, have a higher success rate than hardwood cuttings. The cuttings should be around 6 inches long and should have at least 2-3 nodes. The leaves should be removed from the lower half of the cutting, and the cutting should be treated with a rooting hormone. The cuttings can be planted in a prepared potting mix, and covered with a plastic bag to retain moisture. The cuttings should be kept in a shaded area until they root, which usually takes around 3-4 weeks. Once rooted, the cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots or containers.
Propagation by air layering
Air layering is another method of propagating Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl. This method involves making a small incision in the bark of a healthy branch and applying rooting hormone to the area. A moist medium such as sphagnum moss or peat moss is then wrapped around the incision and covered in plastic to retain moisture. Roots will form within a few months, and the rooted section of branch can then be removed and planted in a pot or container.
Disease Management for Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl.
Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl. is a hardy plant that grows very well in hot and dry regions. However, the plant is susceptible to some diseases, which may negatively affect its growth and productivity.
The following are some common diseases that affect Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl.:
- Canker disease: This disease is caused by a fungus and results in the development of canker sores on the plant. This disease can be managed by pruning the affected branches and applying fungicides.
- Leaf spot: Infected plants show small, circular lesions with a brown edge. The affected leaves usually drop off, leaving the plant defoliated. Management of this disease includes removing infected leaves and applying fungicides.
- Rust: This disease is characterized by orange or brown powdery spots on the leaves and stems. Removal of infected leaves and regular fungicide application can control this disease.
Pest Management for Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl.
Commiphora kilimandscharica Engl. is also prone to attack by various pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. Below are some common pests that affect the plant and ways to manage them:
- Spider mites: They are common in hot, dry weather and are characterized by the presence of webs and yellowing of leaves. Spider mites can be controlled by spraying the leaves with water to dislodge them and then applying acaricides.
- Whiteflies: These are tiny insects that feed on sap from the leaves. They excrete a sticky substance that encourages mold growth. The use of insecticidal soap or neem oil can help manage the whiteflies.
- Caterpillars: These are the larvae of various moths and butterflies. They can be controlled by hand-picking or by using Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticide.
