Origin
Commiphora obovata Chiov. belongs to the genus Commiphora and the family Burseraceae. It is a plant species native to East Africa, specifically in Ethiopia, Somalia, Kenya, and Tanzania.
Common Names
This plant species is commonly known as "Bushman’s scented gum," "Bushman’s incense," or "Ethiopian myrrh." The name "Bushman" refers to the San people of southern Africa who are known to use this plant for medicinal purposes.
Uses
Commiphora obovata Chiov. has a variety of uses. The resin extracted from the stems of this plant is used for medicinal and religious purposes. The resin is burned as incense or used in traditional medicine to treat respiratory problems, digestive disorders, and wounds. It is also used for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. In addition, some communities use the resin to repel insects and as a perfume. The plant is also used in traditional African wedding ceremonies. The roots of Commiphora obovata Chiov. are dug up and carved into miniature sculptures that represent the bride and groom. These sculptures are then exchanged as part of the traditional wedding ceremony. The wood of this tree is used for fuel and for making traditional African musical instruments.
General Appearance
Commiphora obovata Chiov. is a small tree or shrub that grows up to 3 meters tall. The leaves are simple and ovate, with a leathery texture. The flowers are small and white. The fruit of this plant species is a capsule with a diameter of about 1 cm. The resin produced by the plant is the most distinctive feature, with a strong and pleasant odor.
Growth Conditions for Commiphora obovata Chiov.
Commiphora obovata Chiov. is a plant species native to East Africa, particularly Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Somalia. It grows in arid or semi-arid regions, typically in rocky or sandy soils.
Light Requirements
The plant requires full sun exposure to grow and thrive. It can tolerate partial shade conditions, but it may lead to leggy growth and reduced flowering. Therefore, it is recommended to plant the species in areas with maximum sunlight exposure.
Temperature Requirements
Commiphora obovata Chiov. is a heat-loving plant and requires warm temperatures to grow and develop actively. It can tolerate extreme heat conditions up to 40-45 degrees Celsius during the day. At night, it can withstand temperatures of 15-20 degrees Celsius. However, it is sensitive to frost and cannot survive in freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers a well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.5-8.5. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy or rocky soils, but it requires good drainage to prevent waterlogging of the roots. The plant is also drought-tolerant and can survive in arid or semi-arid regions where water is scarce. However, regular irrigation is necessary during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and development.
Cultivation Methods for Commiphora obovata Chiov.
Commiphora obovata Chiov. is a tropical plant that thrives best in warm climates. It can be grown in pots or in the open field, depending on the location and the type of soil. The plant does well in well-drained, sandy soil with a slightly acidic pH of between 6.0 and 6.5. It requires full to partial sunlight exposure to thrive.
Watering Needs for Commiphora obovata Chiov.
The plant requires moderate watering, and it is important to ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it is recommended to allow the topsoil to dry out before watering again. In areas with high temperatures, the plant may require more frequent watering to prevent wilting.
Fertilization for Commiphora obovata Chiov.
Commiphora obovata Chiov. should be fertilized with a balanced slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of each growing season. Avoid applying too much fertilizer as it can cause the plant to become leggy. Instead, apply fertilizer in small quantities regularly to encourage healthy growth.
Pruning for Commiphora obovata Chiov.
The plant requires minimal pruning, and you should only remove dead or diseased branches. If pruning is needed to shape the plant, it should be done in the early spring before new growth appears. Be sure to use sterilized pruning shears to prevent the spreading of diseases.
Propagation of Commiphora obovata Chiov. Plant
Commiphora obovata Chiov. is a deciduous shrub distributed across Africa. The plant can be propagated through different methods, which are:
Seed Propagation
The plant produces seeds that can be harvested from the fruit and used for propagation. The seeds need to be soaked in warm water for 24 hours before planting. Plant the seeds in a well-draining soil mix, keep the soil moist, and place the pots in bright, indirect light. Germination may take up to four weeks, and the young plant can be transplanted when it reaches a height of 4-6 inches.
Cuttings Propagation
Commiphora obovata Chiov. can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take cuttings of 6-8 inches long, making sure to cut just below a node. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone, and plant it in well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist, and place the pot in bright, indirect light. The cuttings will develop roots in 2-4 weeks and can be transplanted when they have rooted well.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another propagation method that can be used for Commiphora obovata Chiov. Select a healthy branch and remove the leaves around a 6-inch section. Apply rooting hormone on the exposed area and wrap the area with wet sphagnum moss. Cover the moss with plastic wrap, making sure to seal it well. In a few weeks, roots will develop from the moss. Cut the branch below the rooted area, and transplant the new plant into a pot.
Whichever propagation method you use, take care of the plant by watering it regularly and placing it in suitable lighting. With proper care, Commiphora obovata Chiov. can be propagated successfully and grown as a beautiful shrub.
Disease and Pest Management for Commiphora obovata Chiov.
Common Diseases:
1. Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by the fungus Cercospora commiphorae. It appears as circular or irregular spots on the leaves, starting from the tip and progressing towards the base. The spots are brown or black in color and may have yellow halos. To management, prune the infected leaves and destroy them. Also, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation.
2. Stem Canker: This disease is caused by the fungus Phomopsis commiphorae or Botryosphaeria dothidea. It causes drying and wilting of leaves and stems, eventually leading to dieback of twigs and branches. To management, prune the infected plant parts and apply fungicides. Avoid wounding the plants during pruning.
3. Root Rot: This disease is caused by the soil-borne fungus Phytophthora parasitica. It causes wilting and yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and rotten roots. To management, avoid overwatering and improve soil drainage. Use fungicides and remove the infected plants to prevent the spread of the disease.
Common Pests:
1. Spider Mites: These pests are tiny arachnids that suck sap from leaves, causing yellowing and stippling. They thrive in hot and dry conditions. To management, wash the leaves with water, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and provide good humidity and air moisture.
2. Mealybugs: These pests are white, fluffy insects that suck sap from leaves and stems, causing growth deformities and honeydew secretion. To management, wash the leaves and stems with water and soap, use insecticidal oil or neem oil, and remove heavily infested plant parts.
3. Scale Insects: These pests are small, hard-shelled insects that attach to the leaves and stems, sucking sap and causing yellowing, wilting, and leaf drop. To management, scrape off the scales manually, wash the leaves and stems with water and soap, use insecticidal oil or neem oil, and apply systemic insecticides if necessary.
