Origin of Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br.
Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br. is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the genus Commiphora and the family Burseraceae. This species is native to Kenya and Tanzania, particularly found in rocky and hot environments. It was discovered by the British botanist, William Botting Hemsley, in the year 1914, and later described by N. E. Brown in 1915.
Common Names of Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br.
Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br. is known by several common names throughout its native range, including blackwood, yellow wood, and African elemi.
Uses of Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br.
Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br. is recognized for its medicinal properties and has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including sore throat, fever, stomach problems, and headaches. The tree's resin is used to make oils that are thought to have therapeutic benefits. The species also has cultural importance, with its wood used for carving and making furniture. African elemi has a long history of use in incense making and is still used today for this purpose in several African cultures, particularly in Kenya and Tanzania.
General Appearance of Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br.
The plant has a gnarled and twisted trunk, with rough, thick, and deeply furrowed bark. The leaves are simple, large, and alternate, deciduous, and are greenish-yellow in color. The flowers of Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br. are small and white, occurring in clusters at the base of the leaves. The fruits are small and round, containing a single seed that is surrounded by a fleshy, juicy pulp. The tree may reach up to 10 m in height, but may be smaller in arid and unfavorable conditions.
Growth Conditions of Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br.
Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br., also known as the Ugandan myrrh tree, is a plant that is native to East Africa. It is a small tree that grows up to 5 meters tall and has a grayish-brown bark.
Light Requirements
This plant requires full sun to part shade for healthy growth. It is important to provide adequate sunlight to the plant during the growing season, which is generally from spring to summer.
Temperature Requirements
The Ugandan myrrh tree prefers warm and dry climates and can grow in temperatures ranging from 20°C to 40°C. It is drought-tolerant and can withstand both high and low temperatures. However, the plant's growth may slow down when temperatures drop below 10°C.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows in a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, the soil must be well-draining and rich in nutrients. A soil pH ranging from 5.5 to 7 is ideal for the growth of Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br.
It is important to note that the plant is susceptible to root rot if the soil is poorly drained. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the plant is watered carefully, and the soil is allowed to dry out between watering sessions.
Cultivation of Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br.
Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br. is a succulent plant that is indigenous to the arid regions of Africa. The plant can be grown in hot and dry regions with adequate sunlight and, in some cases, partial shade.
When planting the plant, it is essential to ensure that the soil is well-draining, as the plant is susceptible to rotting if the soil is waterlogged. A sandy soil mix mixed with some gravel is ideal for proper drainage.
It is best to plant the Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br. during the summer or in early fall when the soil is warm. The plant should be watered thoroughly after planting, and the soil should be kept moist until germination occurs.
Watering Needs of Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br.
The water requirements for the Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br. plant are minimal. The plant is adapted to arid conditions and can survive long periods without water. It is essential to water the plant sparingly and only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
It is best to water the plant deeply once a week during the summer months and reduce the frequency during the winter months when the plant is dormant. During the rainy season, it is not necessary to water the plant as it can absorb moisture from the surrounding environment.
Fertilization of Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br.
Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br. is not a heavy feeder, and excessive fertilizer can lead to stunted growth. The plant requires occasional feeding during the growing season when it is actively growing. A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 can be used to feed the plant.
The fertilizer should be applied during the watering cycle, and it is essential to avoid getting the fertilizer on the leaves of the plant as this can lead to damage. Fertilization should be stopped during the winter months when the plant is dormant and does not require nutrients.
Pruning of Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br.
Pruning is not necessary for Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br. unless it is required to maintain the desired shape or size of the plant. If pruning is necessary, it is best to do so during the summer months when the plant is actively growing.
It is recommended to use sharp and sterile pruning tools to avoid introducing any pathogens into the plant. The plant can be pruned lightly to remove dead or damaged branches, or to shape the plant. It is essential to avoid cutting back too much of the plant, as this can lead to stunted growth, stress and can weaken the plant's structure.
Propagation of Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br.
Propagation is the process of reproducing plants. The propagation of Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br. can be done through various methods, including:
Seed propagation
The most common method of propagating Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br. is through seed. The seeds are usually collected from the mature trees during the dry season when the fruit is ripe. The seeds have to be removed from the fruit and dried for a few days. Once dry, the seeds can be stored for future use or planted immediately. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil or in containers filled with well-drained, sandy soil. It usually takes 2-3 weeks for the seeds to germinate, and they should be watered regularly until they establish.
Cutting propagation
Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br. can also be propagated through cuttings. This method involves taking woody stem cuttings from mature trees and rooting them. The cuttings should be taken during the dry season when the trees are dormant. The cuttings should be about 10-15 cm long and be free of disease or pests. They should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in well-drained, sandy soil. The cuttings should be kept in a humid environment and watered regularly for the first few weeks until they start to root.
Air layering
Air layering is another method that can be used to propagate Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br. This method involves making a small incision on a branch of a mature tree and inserting a moist sphagnum moss around the incision. The moss should be wrapped in plastic to keep it moist. Roots will grow from the incision in a few weeks, and the newly rooted plant can be cut from the parent tree and transplanted to a new location.
The propagation of Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br. should be done with care, and attention should be given to the environmental requirements of the plant to ensure successful growth and establishment.
Disease and Pest Management for Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br.
Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br. is susceptible to various pests and diseases that can affect its overall growth and yield. Effective disease and pest management strategies can be implemented to protect the plant and optimize its productivity.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br. is the stem canker disease caused by the fungus Fusarium solani. This disease can kill the plant by causing stem rot, wilting, and discoloration of the leaves. Establishing healthy planting material, avoiding planting in wet areas and applying fungicide sprays can help prevent the impact of the disease.
Another common disease is Powdery mildew which is caused by the fungi Oidium spp. This disease results in the creation of a white powdery film on the leaves, stems, and flowers making the plant less beautiful and reducing the quality of the yield it produces. Planting resistant species is advisable. In addition to, the application of fungicides would help in preventing mildew development.
Common Pests
Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br. is also affected by pests like scales, caterpillars, and spider mites that feed on the sap, causing the weakening and die-back of the plants. Scales can be handpicked or eliminated by applying an insecticide in the form of a spray. Caterpillars can be captured and squashed by hand or applied Bacillus Thuringiensis and Spinosad (natural insecticides) in a similar way spider mites can be managed.
Termites are also common pests found in this plant and they can cause extensive damage to the roots and the stem. The installation of anti-termite barriers and the early detection of termite presence is advised as strategies to minimize their effects. Also, the use of bioinsecticides such as Metarhizium anisopliae can help control termite attacks.
In conclusion, to guarantee the health of Commiphora lugardae N.E.Br., it is crucial to put in place effective management strategies to combat pests and diseases. Crop rotation, adequate watering, use of fertilizers, and regular inspection to detect early pests and diseases infestations can help protect the plant and promote its optimal productivity.
