Overview of Dichapetalum Lokanduense De Wild.
Dichapetalum Lokanduense De Wild. is a flowering plant species belonging to the Dichapetalaceae family. It is native to Central Africa, specifically the Democratic Republic of Congo, where it grows in rainforests and on the forest edges.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Poison Arrows, Arrow Poison, and Tree of Poison due to the toxic properties of its sap. Poison arrows were traditionally made by using the toxic extracts from the bark, leaves, and seeds of the Dichapetalum Lokanduense De Wild.
Uses
Despite its poisonous nature, the plant has significant medicinal properties. The extract from its bark has been used to manage hypertension, while the leaves and roots have been used in traditional medicine to treat various health conditions including rheumatism, snakebites, and skin diseases. The bark can be used as a pesticide to deter insects and pests in agriculture.
General Appearance
The Dichapetalum Lokanduense De Wild. plant is a small tree that can grow up to 10 meters in height. It has a straight stem with a diameter of up to 20cm. The bark is smooth and grayish-brown in color, with horizontal lenticels (corky, raised pore-like organs). The leaves are simple, alternate, and thick, measuring between 10-20cm long and 3-5cm wide. The flowers are small, green, and clustered, while the fruit is a small dark purple drupe. Whenever incised, the plant exudes a colorless, sap-like coating that dries into a dark brown gum that has served as one of the most potent arrow poisons on the African continent.
Light Requirements
Dichapetalum lokanduense De Wild. thrives in partial to full sun exposure. Although it can tolerate shade, it may result in stunted growth and poor flowering. Generally, it prefers areas that receive at least six hours of direct sunlight every day.
Temperature and Humidity
This plant prefers warm and humid conditions, and the ideal temperature for its growth ranges between 18°C and 30°C. Temperatures below 15°C can cause the plant to suffer and die. It is advisable to grow this plant in areas with a relative humidity level of over 60%.
Soil Requirements
For optimal growth of Dichapetalum lokanduense De Wild., the soil should be rich in nutrients. It prefers well-draining, loamy, and acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5 - 6.5. The soil must also be moist with regular watering and good drainage to avoid waterlogging. However, it can also tolerate periods of dryness as long as it is not prolonged.
Cultivation methods
Dichapetalum lokanduense De Wild. is a tropical plant that requires a warm and humid environment to thrive. It is best grown in a semi-shaded area with well-draining soil. The plant can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings, preferably during the rainy season. It is essential to keep the soil moist during the initial stages of growth to ensure proper establishment.
Watering needs
Dichapetalum lokanduense De Wild. requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. However, overwatering can lead to root rot and other plant diseases. It is best to water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. During the rainy season, the plant may not require frequent watering as the soil remains moist.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular fertilization to ensure healthy growth and development. It is best to use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The fertilizer should be applied every two to three months during the growing season. However, it is essential to avoid over-fertilization as this can lead to salt build-up in the soil, which affects the plant's growth.
Pruning
Dichapetalum lokanduense De Wild. may require occasional pruning to maintain an acceptable size and shape. Pruning should be done during the growing season, preferably after flowering has ended. It is best to remove dead or diseased branches and cut back overgrown branches to encourage new growth. The use of sharp and sterilized pruning tools is recommended to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Dichapetalum lokanduense De Wild.
Dichapetalum lokanduense De Wild. is a shrub that belongs to the family of Dichapetalaceae. The plant is native to Central Africa. It has small, yellow flowers and grayish-green leaves. The fruit is fleshy and red.
Propagation Methods
Dichapetalum lokanduense De Wild. can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings.
Propagation through seeds: The seeds of Dichapetalum lokanduense De Wild. can be collected from the fruit. Once the fruit turns red and fleshy, it can be harvested and the seeds extracted. The seeds can then be planted directly into pots or trays filled with well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist, and the pots or trays should be placed in a warm, shaded area.
Propagation through stem cuttings: Stem cuttings can be taken from healthy, mature plants during the growing season. The cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long and should have at least two nodes. The leaves on the lower nodes should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone. The stem cuttings can then be planted in a well-draining soil mixture and placed in a warm, shaded area. The soil should be kept moist until the cuttings have rooted and new growth appears.
Propagation of Dichapetalum lokanduense De Wild. can be challenging because the plant has specific requirements for growth and development. However, with the right conditions and care, the plant can be successfully propagated through seeds or stem cuttings.
Disease and Pest Management for Dichapetalum Lokanduense De Wild.
Dichapetalum lokanduense De Wild. is a plant that is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests. Proper management practices are essential to ensure the longevity and productivity of the plant. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Dichapetalum lokanduense De Wild. and suggested ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal diseases: The plant is susceptible to different fungal diseases such as leaf spot, stem rot, and powdery mildew. To manage fungal diseases, it is best to remove and destroy infected plant materials, avoid over-watering, and improve air circulation around the plants.
Bacterial diseases: Bacterial diseases like bacterial blight can infect Dichapetalum lokanduense De Wild. To reduce their spread, avoid planting infected seeds or seedlings, clean tools before use, and practice crop rotation to create a disease-free environment.
Viral diseases: Dichapetalum lokanduense De Wild. can also suffer from viral diseases such as mosaic virus, which can cause stunted growth and deformed leaves. Unfortunately, there is no cure for viruses, and infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pests
Spider mites: These small arachnids feed on the plant's sap and can cause yellowing and curling of leaves. To control spider mites, you can wash the plant with water, prune affected leaves, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Aphids: Aphids also feed on sap and can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. A strong jet of water can help remove aphids from the plant. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings to eat the aphids or use insecticidal soap.
Scale insects: These insects suck on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and dropping of leaves. You can prune affected leaves or use horticulture oil to smother the scale insects.
By practicing proper disease and pest management techniques, you can keep your Dichapetalum lokanduense De Wild. plant healthy and productive. Regular monitoring of plants, maintaining a clean environment, and using natural treatments can help prevent the spread of diseases and pests.
