Overview of Dichapetalum suboblongum Engl.
Dichapetalum suboblongum Engl. belongs to the Dichapetalaceae family and is commonly known as African white mahogany, Small-fruited Dichapetalum or Net venation. The plant is native to tropical regions of Africa such as Cameroon, Gabon and Congo.
General Appearance
The Dichapetalum suboblongum Engl. plant usually grows up to two meters high and bears narrow leaves that have conspicuous veins on their surface. The plant's flowers are small and greenish while the fruit is a fleshy drupe that resembles a small orange globe. Dichapetalum suboblongum Engl. has deep roots which enable it to survive in seasonal tropical climates.
Uses of Dichapetalum suboblongum Engl.
The plant has several uses in traditional African medicine. The roots and barks of the plant are commonly used in the treatment of various ailments such as skin infections, fever, and dysentery. The plant contains toxic compounds that are said to have antimalarial and anti-tumor properties.
The Dichapetalum suboblongum Engl. plant also finds its use in the fabrication of various wooden implements and construction of houses in some African regions. Its timber is hard, heavy and durable, making it a reliable construction material. Its durable wood is also used to make furniture and other household items.
The fruit of Dichapetalum suboblongum Engl. is highly favored by primates like gorillas and chimpanzees in the wild, hence its common name "Monkey-killers". However, it is noted that the fruit is also toxic to humans and can be lethal in large quantities if ingested.
Light Conditions
Dichapetalum suboblongum Engl. requires moderate to bright sunlight to thrive. It cannot tolerate full shade and will grow poorly under such conditions. Therefore, it is essential to place the plant in a location where it can receive enough sunlight during the day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows in warm to hot environments, with an optimal temperature range of 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. It cannot withstand frost and will quickly die when exposed to temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius. Therefore, it is essential to keep Dichapetalum suboblongum Engl. in a warm location, away from cold drafts.
Soil Requirements
Dichapetalum suboblongum Engl. prefers fertile soil that is well-draining. It does not do well in waterlogged soil and may experience root rot when exposed to such conditions. It also prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. To maintain optimal soil conditions for the plant, it is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season.
Cultivation Methods
Dichapetalum suboblongum Engl., commonly referred to as "gifblaar," is a plant species native to South Africa. It is famous for its medicinal properties, especially in treating snakebites. Cultivating the plant is relatively easy and requires minimal effort.
The plant performs best in full sunlight, but it can also tolerate partial shade. The soil should be well-draining, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic. Avoid waterlogged soils by ensuring there is proper drainage.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is crucial for the health and growth of Dichapetalum suboblongum. Water the plant moderately during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant season. Keep the soil moist but avoid waterlogging. Allow the soil to dry out partially before the next watering session.
Supplement rainfall with irrigation during the dry season. Young plants will require more frequent watering compared to mature plants. During the rainy season, reduce watering to avoid waterlogging which can lead to root rot and eventually death of the plant.
Fertilization
Apply a slow-release balanced fertilizer during the spring season. This will provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth. Young plants require a smaller quantity of fertilizer compared to mature plants.
The fertilizer should be well-balanced, with a higher ratio of nitrogen for vigorous growth. Avoid over-fertilization since this can lead to excessive growth with fewer flowers. Apply the fertilizer on the soil surface to prevent burning of the plant roots.
Pruning
Prune Dichapetalum suboblongum during the dormant season to control growth and promote bushiness. The plant produces new shoots from the base, making it necessary to remove weak, damaged, and disease-ridden stems.
Use sterile pruning tools, and cut just above the node to promote healthy regrowth. As buds develop, pinch the tips of the plant to encourage bushiness. Avoid excessive pruning, which can limit the flowering of the plant.
Propagation of Dichapetalum suboblongum Engl.
Dichapetalum suboblongum Engl. can be propagated through four main methods: seeds, cuttings, layering, and division.
Seeds
The easiest and most common way to propagate Dichapetalum suboblongum is by seeds. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix in a warm and humid environment. Germination can take up to 3 months. Once the seedlings have grown large enough, they should be potted up into individual containers.
Cuttings
Dichapetalum suboblongum can also be propagated by stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be taken from healthy and mature stems, using a sharp and sterilized pair of shears. Cuttings should be placed in a well-draining potting mix and kept in a warm and humid environment until new growth appears.
Layering
The layering method of propagation is best used if the main stem is low to the ground. A stem that touches the soil can be buried in potting mix and held in place by a stake. After a few months, roots should have developed from the buried stem. Once this occurs, the rooted section can be separated from the mother plant and potted up.
Division
Dichapetalum suboblongum can also be propagated by dividing the plant. This method is best used for mature plants that have grown too large. The plant should be lifted from its pot or the ground and carefully divided into smaller sections. Each section should have both leaves and roots. The sections can be potted up into individual containers with well-draining potting mix.
Disease Management for Dichapetalum suboblongum Engl.
Dichapetalum suboblongum Engl. is a hardy plant, but it can still be susceptible to a few diseases. Here are some common diseases that might affect this plant and how to manage them:
Anthracnose
This fungal disease can cause leaf spots, stem canker, and defoliation in Dichapetalum suboblongum Engl. If you notice brown or black spots on the plant's leaves, it might be suffering from anthracnose. To manage the disease, remove infected plant debris and dispose of them far from the plant. Fungicides can also be sprayed on the plant to control the spread of this disease.
Botrytis Blight
Botrytis blight is also known as gray mold and can cause new growth to wilt and turn brown in color. If your Dichapetalum suboblongum Engl. is infected with Botrytis, remove the diseased parts of the plant and clean the surrounding area to prevent the spread of the disease. Fungicides can also be sprayed on the plant, but it's best to use cultural management practices to prevent this disease.
Pest Management for Dichapetalum suboblongum Engl.
Aside from diseases, Dichapetalum suboblongum Engl. can also be attacked by pests. Here are the most common pests that might affect this plant and how to manage them:
Scale Insects
Scale insects are small and immobile pests that can suck the sap out of Dichapetalum suboblongum Engl. resulting in slow growth and reduced vigor. You can manage scale insects by gently wiping them off the leaves or stems of the plant with a soft cloth or brush soaked in rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars can cause defoliation or damage to the leaves of Dichapetalum suboblongum Engl. and can be managed by handpicking them from the plant and disposing of them. Bacillus thuringiensis, a natural insecticide, can also be sprayed on the plant to control caterpillar infestations.
Managing diseases and pests in Dichapetalum suboblongum Engl. will help keep it healthy and vibrant, ensuring that it thrives in your garden for years to come.
