Description of Corchorus angolensis Exell & Mendonça
Corchorus angolensis Exell & Mendonça is a plant species that belongs to the family Malvaceae and is native to Angola. It has several common names including Angola Jute, Brownleaf Jute, and Mufumbo.
General Appearance
Corchorus angolensis is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 6 meters high. The leaves are simple, alternate and ovate-oblong in shape. They are dark green in color, and the undersides are paler. The flowers are yellow and appear in clusters of up to 8 on the axils of the leaves. The fruits are cylindrical capsules that contain several small reddish to brownish seeds.
Uses
The plant has been traditionally used for various purposes. The bark and leaves are believed to have medicinal properties and have been used to treat various ailments including diarrhea, malaria, and fever. In addition, the fibers obtained from the bark are used to make ropes, bags, and other products. The seeds are also edible and used in cooking. Furthermore, Corchorus angolensis is used as a hedge plant, ornamental plant, and as a shade plant in coffee plantations.
In conclusion, Corchorus angolensis Exell & Mendonça is a plant species that has a variety of uses. Its bark and leaves have medicinal properties, the fibers obtained from the bark are used to make ropes, bags, and other products, the seeds are also edible and used in cooking, and it is used as a hedge plant, ornamental plant, and as a shade plant in coffee plantations. It is an important plant species and is widely distributed in Angola.
Light Requirements
Corchorus angolensis Exell & Mendonça requires full to partial sunlight for optimal growth. The plant can grow in partially shaded areas, but it may not flower as profusely as those grown in full sun. Indoors, the plant can thrive near a south-facing window or under artificial light that mimics the intensity of natural sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Corchorus angolensis Exell & Mendonça is a hardy plant that can grow in a wide range of temperatures. The plant prefers warm temperatures, between 20-30°C (68-86°F), but it can also withstand cooler temperatures as low as 10°C (50°F) for short periods. During the winter, the plant may go into dormancy if temperatures drop below 10°C (50°F) consistently.
Soil Requirements
Corchorus angolensis Exell & Mendonça prefers well-draining, sandy soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and low in salts to prevent damage to the roots. The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, including loamy and clay soils, as long as they are well-draining. In addition, the plant can tolerate slightly acidic or slightly alkaline soil conditions.
Cultivation Methods
Corchorus angolensis Exell & Mendonça, also referred to as the Angola jute, is a plant that can be grown either from seeds or cuttings. If you opt for the seed propagation method, you can sow the seeds either in the nursery or directly into the prepared garden bed. However, the nursery method is considered more effective since it allows you to monitor the germination process and control the environment's humidity and temperature.
The plant thrives in full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade. It also prefers well-draining soils with a pH ranging between 6.0 and 7.5. To prepare the garden bed, loosen the soil, remove any weed, rocks, or debris, and add organic matter such as compost or manure.
Watering Needs
Watering the plant is crucial, especially during the first two months after planting. At this time, the roots are still developing, and they require enough water to support the plant's growth. However, be careful not to overwater the plant as this can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Once the plant is established, you can reduce the watering frequency, especially during the dry season. However, it would help if you still monitored the plant's moisture levels and water it when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
As a heavy feeder, Corchorus angolensis Exell & Mendonça requires regular fertilization to grow healthy and strong. You can apply both organic and synthetic fertilizers, depending on your preferences and the availability of the products. Organic fertilizers such as compost, manure, and bone meal offer the added advantage of improving soil structure and increasing the soil's nutrient retention capacity.
Fertilize the plant every two to three months during the growing season. However, be mindful of over-fertilizing the plant, which can lead to salt build-up and other related issues.
Pruning
Pruning Corchorus angolensis Exell & Mendonça is not necessary, but it can help shape the plant and control its size. The best time to prune the plant is during the early spring, before the new growth begins. During pruning, remove the diseased, damaged, or dead stems and leaves. You can also trim the plant's exterior parts to promote better air circulation and sunlight penetration.
After pruning, dispose of the cuttings appropriately, and sterilize the pruning shears to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Corchorus angolensis Exell & Mendonça
Corchorus angolensis Exell & Mendonça, commonly known as Angolan jute or Angolan corchorus, is a shrub that is native to Angola, Zimbabwe, and Zambia. It is a hardy plant that is drought-tolerant and can grow in a variety of soil types. The plant has traditionally been used for medicinal purposes and its fiber has been used for weaving baskets and ropes.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Corchorus angolensis. Seeds should be sown in late spring or early summer in well-draining soil. Prepare the soil by removing any weeds, rocks, and debris. Sow the seeds approximately 1 inch deep and 2 to 3 inches apart.
Water the soil thoroughly after sowing and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Germination should occur within 2 to 3 weeks. Once the seedlings have emerged, thin them out to a spacing of about 18 inches apart. This will ensure that each plant has enough room to grow and develop.
Cutting Propagation
Corchorus angolensis can also be propagated from cuttings. Take cuttings in spring or early summer from mature plants that are at least 1 year old. Choose healthy shoots that are free from disease and pests and are approximately 6 inches long.
Remove the lower leaves from the cutting and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder. Place the cutting into a pot filled with well-draining soil. Water the soil thoroughly and cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to create a greenhouse effect.
Place the pot in a warm, bright location but out of direct sunlight. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Rooting should occur within 4 to 6 weeks. Once roots have formed, transplant the cutting into a larger pot or directly into the garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Corchorus Angolensis
Corchorus angolensis is a plant that is susceptible to various pests and diseases, which can ultimately lead to a loss in yield. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and the ways to manage them.
Diseases
1. Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that causes the leaves of the plant to develop small, circular, tan to brown spots with dark margins. To manage this disease, it is important to prune off the affected parts and also to avoid overhead irrigation to reduce the water on the leaves.
2. Root rot: This disease is caused by fungi and can cause the roots of the plant to rot and eventually die. To manage this disease, it is essential to maintain good drainage of the soil and avoid overwatering.
3. Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating to form on the leaves of the plant. To control this disease, fungicides can be applied to the affected parts of the plant leaves.
Pests
1. Aphids: These are small insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to wilt and yellow. To manage this pest, neem oil or insecticidal soap can be applied to the affected parts of the plant.
2. Spider mites: These are tiny pests that feed on the sap of the plant, causing it to yellow and eventually die. To control spider mites, spraying the plants with insecticidal soap or a mixture of water and dish soap can be effective.
3. Whiteflies: These are small insects that feed on the plant's sap, resulting in stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage whiteflies, Yellow sticky traps can be placed throughout the garden, or insecticidal soap can be used to spray the affected plant parts.
Regular monitoring of the plant for pest or disease infestation is essential to ensure early detection and management. It is also important to avoid overcrowding of the plants and maintain good hygiene practices to prevent the spread of diseases.
