Overview of Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill
Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill is a striking shrub or small tree that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to East Africa and is commonly found in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The plant is known by many common names, including the wild white cherry, mchikichi, and mkalivi.
Appearance of Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill
The Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill plant is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 14 meters tall. The bark is greyish-brown and fissured, and the leaves are pinnately compound, with tiny, smooth-edged leaflets. The flowers of the plant are pale yellow and are arranged in loose, terminal racemes. The fruits are brown pods that are approximately 8 cm long and 1.5 cm wide, each containing two to four seeds. The seeds are surrounded by a spherical, papery aril that is white.
Uses of Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill
Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill has several uses in traditional African medicine. The roots and bark of the plant are used to treat various ailments, including fever, snake bites, and stomach disorders. The seeds of the plant are also roasted and used as a substitute for coffee. The wood of the tree is valuable and is used to make furniture, carvings, and musical instruments. However, the tree is endangered due to overexploitation and habitat loss, and it is protected under Kenyan law.
In conclusion, Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill is a unique and valuable plant that has various traditional uses in Africa. The tree's striking appearance and the scarcity of its wood make it an important conservation priority and a fascinating subject for research and study.
Light Requirements
Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill requires moderate shade or filtered sunlight for optimal growth. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves and hinder growth. The plant can thrive in partial shade conditions where it can receive about 4-6 hours of sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm tropical or subtropical climates with temperatures ranging between 20°C to 30°C. However, the plant can still survive in temperatures as low as -2 ^°C during the winter seasons. However, it is essential to protect the plant from extreme cold as it can lead to the death of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill thrives in well-drained soils that are slightly acidic, with pH ranging from 6.0-7.0. The ideal soil should be rich in organic matter with a sandy or loamy texture. The plant can also grow in rocky soils, albeit with slower growth rates.
Cultivation Methods for Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill
Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill grows well in tropical and subtropical climates with temperatures ranging between 20°C and 30°C. Choose a planting spot with well-draining soil and a good amount of sunlight. The plant prefers a slightly acidic soil pH level of between 6 and 7.5.
Propagation of Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill is mainly done through seeds. The seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before planting to increase the germination rate. The seedlings are transplanted after they have grown for at least six months, when they develop a three-to-four-leaf stage.
Watering Needs for Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill
Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill requires consistent watering to maintain healthy growth. Water the plant twice a week, ensuring the soil remains moist, but not waterlogged. During the rainy season, reduce the frequency of watering to prevent overwatering.
It's crucial to note that the plant cannot survive in drought conditions, and irregular watering can cause leaf drop, wilting, and stunted growth.
Fertilizing Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill
The plant requires frequent fertilization to thrive, as it needs to obtain all essential nutrients for its growth. Use slow-release fertilizers to feed the plant, which can last for up to six months. Apply the fertilizers at the beginning of spring and in the middle of summer when the plant is growing actively.
Organic matter, such as compost and manure, can be added to the soil to enrich soil fertility, promote soil microbes and improve soil texture. This approach maximizes soil uptake of the nutrients essential to the plant's growth.
Pruning Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill
Pruning of Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill is essential for maintaining plant size, shape, and health. Prune during the dormant season to avoid damaging the developing leaves and flowers.
Cut the dead, damaged, and diseased branches to improve airflow within the plant canopy and prevent pests or diseases from spreading. For aesthetic reasons, you may shape the plant as desired, but avoid excessive pruning, which may weaken the plant and affect its growth.
Propagation of Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill
Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill, commonly known as the East African Blackwood, is a medium-sized tree native to East Africa. It is an endangered species due to habitat destruction and over-exploitation for its high-value wood. To conserve the species, propagation of Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill is essential.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill is through seeds. The seeds are collected from mature fruits and should be sown as soon as possible, as they have a short viability period. Before sowing, the seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the hard seed coat.
The seeds are sown in sterilized soil mix in seedling trays or pots. They should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist. Germination usually occurs within three to four weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough, they can be transplanted into larger pots or planted in the field.
Cutting Propagation
Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Semi-hardwood cuttings of about 15-20 cm in length are collected from healthy trees during the rainy season. The cuttings should be taken from the middle portion of the stem and should have at least two nodes.
The lower leaves of the cuttings should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone powder. The cuttings are then planted in a mixture of sand and soil in a shaded area. The soil should be kept moist, and the cuttings should be protected from direct sunlight. Roots develop in about three to four weeks, and the cuttings can be transplanted into larger pots or planted in the field.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is a less common method of propagating Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill. It is a technique where a scion (a shoot or bud) of the desired plant is joined to the rootstock of a closely related plant. The rootstock should be healthy and disease-free.
Scions are collected from selected trees during the rainy season, and the grafting is usually done during the dry season. The scions are grafted onto the rootstock using a cleft or whip and tongue grafting method. The grafted plants are then kept in a shaded area and protected from direct sunlight until they are well established.
Propagation of Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill through seed, cutting, and grafting methods can help to conserve the species and increase its population.
Disease Management
Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill is susceptible to a number of diseases. The following are the most common diseases affecting the plant:
- Root rot: This disease is caused by various fungi and can be characterized by wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth of the plant. To manage root rot, it is important to ensure proper drainage and avoid over-watering the plant.
- Leaf spot: This disease is caused by fungi and can be identified by brown or blackish spots on the leaves. The spots can cause defoliation and reduce the plant's vigor. Management of leaf spot includes maintaining good air circulation, watering at the base of the plant, and removing infected leaves.
- Powdery mildew: This disease is caused by fungi and is characterized by a white powdery substance on the leaves. It can lead to distortion and curling of the leaves. Powdery mildew can be managed by avoiding high humidity, providing good air circulation, and using fungicides.
Pest Management
Dalbergia arbutifolia Baker subsp. aberrans Polhill is also susceptible to pests. The following are common pests that affect the plant:
- Spider mites: These pests are tiny and can be difficult to see with the naked eye. They can cause discoloration and stippling of the leaves. Spider mites can be managed by washing the leaves with water, using insecticidal soap, and maintaining good air circulation.
- Caterpillars: These pests can cause significant damage to the plant by feeding on the leaves and stems. They can be managed by handpicking and using insecticides.
- Scale insects: These pests can be identified by small bumps on the stems and leaves. They can cause yellowing and stunted growth of the plant. Scale insects can be managed by wiping the affected areas with rubbing alcohol or using insecticides.
- Thrips: These pests are tiny and feed on the leaves and flowers. They can cause discoloration and distortion of the leaves. Thrips can be managed by using insecticidal soap and maintaining good air circulation.
It is important to monitor the plant regularly for signs of disease and pest infestations in order to prevent or minimize damage. Proper care and maintenance, including regular watering and fertilization, can also help the plant resist diseases and pests.
