Overview
Dichapetalum scabrum Engl. is a plant species belonging to the family Dichapetalaceae. It is known for its medicinal properties and is commonly found in West Africa.
Origin and Common Names
Dichapetalum scabrum is native to West Africa, particularly in countries like Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Ghana. It is also commonly known as "gifblaar" or "poison leaf" in Afrikaans, "ogwu" or "aduruku" in Ibo, and "ntshava" in Zulu.
General Appearance
Dichapetalum scabrum is a small, evergreen tree that can grow up to 10 meters in height. It has shiny green leaves that are elliptical in shape and about 7 to 9 cm long. The tree produces small white or cream-colored flowers that grow in clusters and are typically about 0.5 cm in diameter. The fruit of Dichapetalum scabrum is a small, black shiny berry with a single seed.
Uses
Dichapetalum scabrum is known for its medicinal properties, particularly its use in the treatment of certain types of cancer such as leukemia. The plant contains a toxic compound called dichapetalin, which has been found to have anti-tumor properties. However, it can also be fatal when ingested in large amounts. In traditional African medicine, extracts from the plant have been used to treat snakebites, fever, and certain types of infections. Additionally, the wood of the Dichapetalum scabrum tree is used for carving and for making utensils and tools.
Growth Conditions for Dichapetalum scabrum Engl
Light Requirements: Dichapetalum scabrum requires moderate to high levels of light to grow properly. This plant is best suited for full sun to partial shade conditions. It is important to provide the plant with sufficient light to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Temperature: Dichapetalum scabrum prefers warm temperatures ranging from 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C). The plant can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures but will not thrive in cold conditions. It is important to keep the plant away from frost and freezing temperatures to prevent damage to the leaves and stems.
Soil Requirements: Dichapetalum scabrum prefers well-draining soil that is loose and rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral (5.5 to 7.0). It is important to provide the plant with sufficient water and nutrients to promote healthy growth. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot.
Fertilizer: Dichapetalum scabrum responds well to regular fertilization with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) to promote healthy growth and flowering. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application and dosages.
Propagation: Dichapetalum scabrum can be propagated through stem cuttings or by sowing seeds. Stem cuttings should be taken from a healthy plant and rooted in a well-draining soil mix. Seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix at a depth of 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) and kept moist until germination occurs.
Pests and Diseases: Dichapetalum scabrum is relatively pest and disease-resistant but can be prone to spider mites and mealybugs. Treatment options include horticultural oils and insecticidal soaps. It is important to monitor the plant regularly for signs of infestation and treat as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Cultivation of Dichapetalum scabrum Engl.
Dichapetalum scabrum Engl. is best grown in rich, well-draining soil. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic, around 6.0 to 6.5. It prefers a warm, sunny location, although it can also handle some shade.
Watering Needs
Watering should be done regularly, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions. The plant will require more water during the warmer months, and less during the cooler months.
Fertilization
Dichapetalum scabrum Engl. benefits from regular applications of a general-purpose fertilizer, during the growing season. It is also a good idea to add some organic matter into the soil, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil structure and fertility.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Dichapetalum scabrum Engl. However, if you want to shape the plant or remove any dead or damaged parts, do so during the dormant period. This will avoid any potential damage to the active growth parts of the plant.
Propagation of Dichapetalum scabrum Engl.
Dichapetalum scabrum Engl., commonly known as "gifblaar," can be propagated through various methods such as seed germination, stem cuttings, and air layering.
Seed germination
The seeds of this plant can be collected during the fruiting season and cleaned to remove any pulp and debris. The cleaned seeds can be sown in well-draining soil mix and placed in a warm and humid environment. The seeds usually take 4-6 weeks to germinate, and the emerging seedlings can be transplanted once they have developed several true leaves.
Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken during the growing season from mature plants. The cuttings should be 8-10 cm long and have at least two nodes. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept moist, and roots will usually develop in 4-6 weeks.
Air layering
Air layering is a technique that involves inducing roots to grow on a stem while it is still attached to the parent plant. Select a healthy stem and make a notch where you want to induce roots. Dust the area with rooting hormone and wrap it with a ball of sphagnum moss and plastic wrap to create a humid environment. Check the moss regularly to ensure it stays moist. After 4-6 weeks, roots should have developed, and the stem can be cut and planted in a well-draining soil mix.
Disease Management
Several diseases can plague Dichapetalum scabrum, leading to root rot and leaf spots. Root rot usually occurs when the soil is poorly drained, making the roots susceptible to fungal infection. In contrast, leaf spots occur due to fungal and bacterial infections and can result in the yellowing or dropping of leaves.
To manage the disease incidence, ensure that the soil has good drainage and is not waterlogged. Apply a fungicide to the leaves and soil to control fungal infections. If bacterial infections occur, remove infected leaves and destroy them to prevent the spread of bacteria to other parts of the plant.
Pest Management
Dichapetalum scabrum is susceptible to several pests that can cause significant damage, including spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. In the case of spider mites, the leaves become stippled, and the plant begins to look unhealthy. Mealybugs make the plant appear silky or webbed, while scales are flat, scale-like insects that suck on the plant's sap and cause it to dry out.
To manage pest infestations, use an insecticide-safe method and apply it to the plant's foliage and stems. In the case of spider mites, use a miticide to control the pests, while for mealybugs and scale insects, a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap should suffice. Ensure that you cover both the upper and lower sides of the leaves and apply the treatment repeatedly to prevent a re-infestation.
