Commiphora longipedicellata Vollesen
Commiphora longipedicellata Vollesen is a species of plant that belongs to the Burseraceae family. This plant is native to Ethiopia and is commonly found in the eastern part of the country. It is often referred to as the Long-Peduncled Myrrh due to the long stalks that hold its fruit.
Common Names
Commiphora longipedicellata has several other common names including:
- Hargeisa Myrrh
- Eastern Myrrh
- Ethiopian Commiphora
The plant is called Hargeisa Myrrh because it is commonly found in the Hargeisa province in Somalia. It is also called Eastern Myrrh because of its distribution in the eastern part of Ethiopia.
Uses
The resin of Commiphora longipedicellata is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments. The resin is chewed, and the juice is swallowed to treat dysentery, inflammation, and stomach problems. It is also used as a toothache cure and for treating respiratory illnesses.
Commiphora longipedicellata resin is also used for the production of incense and perfumes. In some areas, it is even burned as a fumigant to repel insects.
General Appearance
Commiphora longipedicellata is a small tree or shrub that grows up to 6 meters in height. The bark of the tree is dark brown and rough. The leaves are simple, alternate, and clustered at the tip of the branches. They are ovate to oblong and measure up to 5 cm in length. The flowers are small and greenish-white, and the fruit is an oval-shaped berry that turns black when ripe. The long stalks that hold the fruit give the plant its name, Long-Peduncled Myrrh.
Light Requirements
Commiphora longipedicellata Vollesen thrives in a bright and well-lit environment. It requires full sunlight exposure to develop healthy foliage and produce vibrant flowers. Partial or filtered sunlight may also suffice, but it should not be deprived of sunlight for extended periods.
Temperature Requirements
The temperature requirement for Commiphora longipedicellata Vollesen is within the range of 20°C to 30°C. It can adapt to a wide range of temperatures but prefers warm conditions. Extreme temperatures below 10°C or above 40°C may result in damage or stunted growth. It is ideal to maintain consistent temperatures throughout the year.
Soil Requirements
Commiphora longipedicellata Vollesen thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. The plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH level of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be loose, and sandy with an adequate amount of organic matter. The plant also requires regular watering, especially during the growing season, but it must not be left sitting in standing water.
Cultivation of Commiphora longipedicellata Vollesen
Commiphora longipedicellata Vollesen thrives in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant prefers warm temperatures, and it's sensitive to frost and extreme cold. The ideal growing environment for this plant is well-draining soil with a pH range of 6-7. The soil must be rich in nutrients and organic matter to ensure optimal growth.
Watering Needs of Commiphora longipedicellata Vollesen
The plant requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, which damages the plant. It's essential to water the plant consistently, ensuring that the topsoil is always moist but not waterlogged. During hot weather, it's advisable to water the plant in the morning or evening when the temperatures are lower.
Fertilization of Commiphora longipedicellata Vollesen
Fertilizing the plant is necessary to promote healthy growth and maintain the vibrant color of the leaves. It's best to use a balanced fertilizer, rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize the plant once every two to four weeks during the growing season, reducing the frequency during the dormant season. However, over-fertilizing might lead to salt buildup in the soil, which harms the plant's growth.
Pruning of Commiphora longipedicellata Vollesen
Pruning is essential to maintain the plant's desired shape and promote new growth. It's best to prune the plant during the dormant season to avoid damaging the new growth. Cut off any dead or damaged branches and stems and remove any unwanted growth. Ensure that the pruning tools are sharp and sterile to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Commiphora longipedicellata Vollesen
Commiphora longipedicellata Vollesen is a rare succulent plant that is indigenous to central and southern Somalia. Propagation of this plant can be a challenge due to its slow growth rate and endemic nature.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most viable method of propagating Commiphora longipedicellata Vollesen. The seeds can be collected from mature plants during the dry season when they are ripe. The seeds should be cleaned, dried, and stored properly to maintain viability. They can then be sown in a well-drained seedbed and covered lightly with soil. The seedbed should be kept moist, and germination can occur within 2-4 weeks. The seedlings should be transplanted into individual containers when they reach about 3 cm in height.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is rarely used for Commiphora longipedicellata Vollesen due to its slow growth rate and low success rate. However, cuttings can be taken during the dry season when the plant is semi-dormant. The cuttings should be about 8-10 cm in length, with at least two nodes. Remove the leaves from the bottom of the cutting and plant it in a well-drained soil mix. The cutting should be kept moist and in bright, indirect light. The success rate of cutting propagation can be increased by applying a rooting hormone and keeping the cutting in a humid environment.
Air Layering
Air layering is a method of propagation that involves inducing roots to form on a stem while it is still attached to the parent plant. This method is also rarely used for Commiphora longipedicellata Vollesen. However, it can yield a genetically identical plant with a higher success rate than cutting propagation. To air layer, select a healthy stem and remove a narrow strip of bark from the middle of the stem. Apply a rooting hormone to the exposed area and wrap it with wet sphagnum moss. Cover the moss with plastic wrap and secure the ends with rubber bands. Roots should start to grow in about four to six weeks, at which point the stem can be separated from the parent plant and planted in well-drained soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Commiphora longipedicellata Vollesen
Commiphora longipedicellata Vollesen, also known as the Long-stalked Myrrh, is a tree native to East Africa. Like other plants, it is susceptible to several diseases and pests that may affect its growth and yield. To ensure that the plant remains healthy and productive, it is essential to carry out adequate management practices.
Common Diseases
One common disease that may affect Commiphora longipedicellata is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can appear on the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to keep the plant free from debris, maintain good air circulation, and avoid overhead watering. Additionally, fungicides can be applied as a preventive measure.
Another disease that may attack Commiphora longipedicellata is root rot. Root rot is a fungal or bacterial disease that affects the roots, making them turn brown and mushy. To prevent root rot, it is essential to avoid overwatering, plant the tree in a well-draining soil, and ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Affected plants can be treated by cutting off the affected roots and applying fungicides.
Common Pests
One common pest that may attack Commiphora longipedicellata is the spider mite. Spider mites are small pests that suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and dry up. To manage spider mites, it is essential to keep the plant well-watered, increase humidity, and spray the tree with insecticidal soap or miticides.
Another pest that may attack Commiphora longipedicellata is the whitefly. Whiteflies are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing leaf yellowing and wilting. To manage whiteflies, it is essential to keep the plant free from debris, avoid overcrowding, and spray the tree with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Finally, the mealybug is another pest that may attack Commiphora longipedicellata. Mealybugs are insect pests that appear as white cottony masses on the leaves or stems. To manage mealybugs, it is essential to remove them by hand, spray the tree with insecticidal soap, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
Overall, preventing diseases and pests is essential in ensuring the long-term health and productivity of Commiphora longipedicellata. By following adequate management practices, it is possible to keep the plant healthy and yield high-quality products.
