Overview
Commiphora samharensis Schweinf. subsp. terebinthina (Vollesen) J.B.Gillett, also known as the Samhar frankincense, is a plant species that belongs to the Burseraceae family. It is endemic to Eritrea, specifically found in the Samhar Massif.Description
This plant grows as a small tree or shrub that can reach up to 5 meters in height. It has a smooth bark that may vary in color from grey to brown, and its branches often bear spine-tipped shoots. The Samhar frankincense produces small, yellowish-green flowers that grow in clusters.Common Names
This plant is commonly referred to as the Samhar frankincense due to its natural distribution in the Samhar Massif. It is also known by other names including Tigray frankincense, Ethiopian myrrh, and balm of Gilead.Uses
The resin of the Samhar frankincense is traditionally used as incense in various cultural and religious practices. It is highly valued for its aromatic properties and is commonly burnt for its pleasant scent. The resin may also have medicinal properties and is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. In addition, the Samhar frankincense is used for timber and fuelwood, and its leaves and fruits are utilized as a source of fodder for livestock.Conclusion
The Samhar frankincense is a valuable plant species that has significant cultural, traditional, and medicinal uses. Its distribution is limited to the Samhar Massif in Eritrea, making it a unique and important component of the local flora.Light Requirements
Commiphora samharensis subsp. terebinthina thrives in full sunlight. It can tolerate some shading but performs best in areas with maximum exposure to sunlight. The plant is well-suited for growth in areas with intense sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to the arid and semi-arid regions of northeastern Africa. Therefore, it can tolerate high temperatures and requires warm temperatures to grow optimally. The recommended temperature range for growth is 18 to 28 degrees Celsius. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in areas with low humidity.
Soil Requirements
Commiphora samharensis subsp. terebinthina typically grows in sandy, well-draining soils. The plant requires well-draining soils since it is susceptible to root rot when grown in waterlogged soils. Soil pH may range from neutral to slightly alkaline (pH 7-8). The plant's root system is shallow, so the soil should be sufficiently loose and porous to ensure adequate aeration.
Cultivation Methods
Commiphora samharensis Schweinf. subsp. terebinthina (Vollesen) J.B.Gillett, also known as the Somali myrrh, is a hardy plant with low-water requirements. It is drought-resistant and can thrive in hot and dry climates. The plant can grow up to 4 meters tall and requires well-drained soil with a neutral to alkaline pH range. It prefers full sun exposure but can also grow under partial shade. It is propagated through seeds or stem cuttings and requires little care once established.
Watering Needs
The Somali myrrh requires very little water, and overwatering can lead to root rot. While it can tolerate periods of drought, regular watering can help the plant grow faster. It is essential to allow the soil to dry out completely between watering, as the plant is susceptible to fungus growth in moist conditions. During the summer months, water the plant weekly, and during winter, cut back on watering to every two to three weeks.
Fertilization
The Somali myrrh requires minimal fertilization and can thrive in poor soil conditions. Fertilizing the plant can be done during the growing season, which is from spring to summer. Use a slow-release fertilizer, as overfeeding can lead to rapid growth and weak stems. An organic fertilizer can be used as an alternative, and it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Pruning
Commiphora samharensis Schweinf. subsp. terebinthina is a slow-growing plant that requires minimal pruning. Pruning is done to shape and maintain the plant's size. For young plants, pruning can be done to encourage a bushier growth habit. Cutting back the plant by a third will help promote side shoots. Pruning is done during the winter dormant season, and it is best to use sharp, clean pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Commiphora samharensis Schweinf. subsp. terebinthina (Vollesen) J.B.Gillett
Commiphora samharensis Schweinf. subsp. terebinthina (Vollesen) J.B.Gillett can be propagated via various methods including:
Seed Propagation
The most common propagation method for Commiphora samharensis Schweinf. subsp. terebinthina (Vollesen) J.B.Gillett is through seed propagation. The seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before sowing in a well-drained soil mix. The seedlings will take several years to establish and reach maturity, so patience is key.
Cuttings
Commiphora samharensis Schweinf. subsp. terebinthina (Vollesen) J.B.Gillett can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take stem cuttings in the spring or summer with at least two nodes, and make a clean cut just below a node. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in a well-drained soil mix. Cover the cuttings with a plastic bag or dome to retain moisture until roots begin to form.
Layering
Commiphora samharensis Schweinf. subsp. terebinthina (Vollesen) J.B.Gillett can also be propagated through layering. Select a low-growing branch and remove all leaves except the top few. Bury the selected part of the branch in a hole, making sure the top of the branch remains above ground. Keep the soil moist and wait for roots to develop on the buried part of the branch. Once roots have formed, the new plant can be separated from the parent plant and planted in its own container or garden patch.
Disease Management
One of the most common diseases that affect Commiphora samharensis Schweinf. subsp. terebinthina is root rot. This fungal disease is caused by damp soil conditions and overwatering. To prevent root rot, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering the plant. If root rot has already affected the plant, treat it with a fungicide to prevent further spread.
Another disease that might affect the plant is leaf blight. This is characterized by the presence of dark, irregular-shaped spots on the plant's leaves. Leaf blight is caused by a fungus and thrives in damp conditions. To manage this disease, prune the infected leaves and avoid watering the plant from above. This fungus can also be treated with a fungicide.
Pest Management
One of the most common pests that affect Commiphora samharensis Schweinf. subsp. terebinthina is spider mites. These tiny pests suck the sap of the plant and cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To prevent spider mites, ensure proper humidity levels and regularly spray the plant with water. These pests can also be manually removed by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or treated with a miticide.
Another pest that might affect the plant is mealybugs. These small, fuzzy insects feed on the plant's sap and leave a sticky residue on the leaves. To manage mealybugs, manual removal can be effective for small infestations. You can also use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove them from the plant's leaves. Large infestations may require the use of an insecticide.
