Overview
Dialium reticulatum Burtt Davy & MacGregor is a species of plant in the family Fabaceae, subfamily Caesalpinioideae. This plant is known by several common names, including umalukat, umfunguli, native jackalberry, and mukanya.
Origin and Habitat
This tree is native to Africa and occurs in Angola, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. It is typically found in savannas, woodlands, and forest edges, as well as riparian zones with seasonal streams.
Appearance
Dialium reticulatum can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a dense crown. The bark is rough, dark grey, and fissured, while the young branchlets are hairy and brown. The leaves are compound and alternate, with 4 to 6 pairs of leaflets, each about 2.5cm in length. The flowers are small and yellow, forming in clusters on the stem. The fruit is a flat, dark brown pod that is around 5cm in diameter and contains 1 to 4 seeds.
Uses
The fruit of Dialium reticulatum is edible and is often consumed fresh or made into a drink. The wood of this tree is used to make furniture, while the bark is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including diarrhea, cough, and chest pains. The plant is also important for wildlife, as its fruit and leaves are consumed by numerous animals, including elephants, baboons, and birds.
Growth Conditions for Dialium reticulatum Burtt Davy & MacGregor
Dialium reticulatum Burtt Davy & MacGregor, commonly known as the net-leaved dialium, is a medium-sized tree species from the family Leguminosae. The species is native to the African continent and is widely distributed in sub-Saharan regions. The tree has a moderate growth rate and is adaptable to a range of environmental conditions.
Light Requirements
Net-leaved dialium trees require full sunlight to grow properly. They typically thrive in open savannah ecosystems and other areas that receive ample natural light. The species grows poorly in shady environments, and young seedlings may need artificial light supplementation to promote growth.
Temperature Requirements
The optimum temperature range for net-leaved dialium growth is between 20 and 30°C. The species is adapted to arid and semi-arid regions and can tolerate drought conditions. However, severe cold stress can damage the tree's foliage and inhibit growth. In areas with frost or freezing temperatures, the species may need to be grown indoors or in climate-controlled greenhouses.
Soil Requirements
Dialium reticulatum Burtt Davy & MacGregor thrives in well-drained, sandy soils with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.5. The tree is adapted to low-nutrient soils and can tolerate low fertility levels. However, consistent moisture is essential for proper root development and growth. High salinity levels or waterlogging can cause root rot and other diseases, which can damage or kill the tree.
Cultivation of Dialium Reticulatum Burtt Davy & Macgregor
Dialium reticulatum Burtt Davy & MacGregor is an attractive ornamental plant that is grown in gardens for its beautiful foliage and fragrant flowers. It is native to Africa and thrives in tropical and subtropical regions. Here are a few tips on how to cultivate Dialium reticulatum:
Soil: Dialium reticulatum prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. It can grow in slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil. Ensure that the soil is rich in organic matter.
Light: Dialium reticulatum grows best in full sun to a partial shade environment. However, it cannot tolerate frost and is sensitive to cold temperatures, so plant it in a warm, sheltered site.
Propagation: Dialium reticulatum seeds can be sown directly in the ground or in a raised bed. The best time to sow the seeds is during the rainy season, which allows for faster germination. You can also propagate the plant using softwood cuttings.
Watering Needs
Dialium reticulatum requires regular watering, especially during the dry months. Water the plant deeply but do not allow the soil to become waterlogged as it could lead to root rot. Err on the side of underwatering as opposed to overwatering.
Fertilization
Dialium reticulatum requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and flowering. Apply a balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium during the growing season. Also, apply organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and improve soil fertility.
Pruning
Pruning Dialium reticulatum is not necessary but can be done to maintain its shape and size. Prune lightly during the growing season by removing dead and damaged branches and trimming the tips of the plant to stimulate bushy growth.
Propagation of Dialium reticulatum Burtt Davy & MacGregor
Dialium reticulatum Burtt Davy & MacGregor is propagated mainly by seeds. The seeds of the plant are collected from ripe pods. The seeds do not have any specific pre-treatment method, and they can be sown immediately after collection.
The seeds of Dialium reticulatum Burtt Davy & MacGregor need to be sown in a seedbed filled with well-drained soil. The soil should be a mixture of sand and organic matter such as compost. The seedlings should be grown in partial shade or under a shade cloth for the first year.
The seedlings of Dialium reticulatum Burtt Davy & MacGregor can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the field after they have grown to a height of about 30-50 cm. The optimum time for transplantation of the seedlings is during the rainy season, which provides suitable environment for the growth of the plant.
The plant can also be propagated by cuttings. However, this method is not very common and is generally considered difficult to achieve. The plant is best propagated by seeds which can germinate quickly and easily with good viability rates.
Disease and Pest Management for Dialium reticulatum Burtt Davy & MacGregor Plants
Dialium reticulatum, commonly known as the Monkey-bread tree or African rosewood, is a plant species that is native to tropical Africa. The plant is relatively resistant to most pests and diseases, but it is still susceptible to a few common ones.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Dialium reticulatum is leaf spot, caused by the fungus Cercospora dolichotheae. The disease manifests as small, circular, black, or brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is recommended to prune out infected leaves and maintain proper plant hygiene. Fungicides may also be used.
Another common disease that affects Dialium reticulatum is powdery mildew, caused by the fungus Oidium sp. The disease manifests as white or gray powdery patches on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is recommended to prune out infected leaves and maintain proper plant hygiene. Fungicides may also be used.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that affect Dialium reticulatum is the spider mite, Tetranychus sp. These pests suck sap from the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow or brown. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to use insecticides or to increase humidity around the plant. Pruning out infected leaves and maintaining proper hygiene can also help prevent infestations.
The mealybug, Planococcus sp., is another common pest that affects Dialium reticulatum. These pests feed on sap and excrete honeydew, which attracts other pests and causes fungal growth. To manage mealybugs, it is recommended to use insecticides or to manually remove the pests with a soft brush or cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
In conclusion, although Dialium reticulatum is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, it is still susceptible to a few common ones. Therefore, regular monitoring and good plant hygiene practices, such as pruning out infected leaves and removing fallen plant debris, can help prevent and manage infestations and disease outbreaks.
