Overview of Dichrostachys arborea N.E.Br.
Dichrostachys arborea N.E.Br., also commonly known as Sickle Bush or Venus Tresses, is a medium-sized tree that belongs to the family Fabaceae. The plant is native to Africa and can be found in various parts of the continent, including Southern, Eastern, and Western Africa.
General Appearance of Dichrostachys arborea N.E.Br.
The Sickle Bush tree can grow up to 15 meters tall and has a spreading and irregularly shaped canopy. The tree has a distinct smooth, reddish-brown bark with characteristic white streaks on it. The branches of the tree are thorny, and the leaves are green and compound, with about 7-19 pairs of leaflets. The tree produces small, fragrant yellow flowers, which develop into flattened seed pods that are light brown and up to 10 cm long.
Common Uses of Dichrostachys arborea N.E.Br.
The Sickle Bush tree has a variety of uses in different parts of Africa. The leaves of the tree are used as fodder for livestock and its bark is used in traditional medicines to treat different ailments such as diarrhea, constipation, and fever. The wood of the tree is durable, hard and heavy, making it useful for construction and furniture-making. Additionally, the plant has cultural and spiritual significance in some African communities.
In some areas, the Sickle Bush tree is considered an invasive species due to its ability to outcompete other native plants. However, the plant has potential for use as an agroforestry crop due to its nitrogen-fixing capabilities and drought tolerance.
Light Requirements
Dichrostachys arborea N.E.Br. thrives best under direct sunlight but can tolerate partial shade as well. Full exposure to sunlight guarantees the optimal growth of the plant.
Temperature Requirements
Dichrostachys arborea N.E.Br. prefers hot and humid climates but can also survive in mild temperatures. Optimal temperature ranges between 20°C to 34°C with a minimum temperature of 5°C.
Soil Requirements
Dichrostachys arborea N.E.Br. prefers fertile, well-drained, and sandy loam soils. However, the plant can also grow on rocky or gravelly surfaces with good drainage. The pH of the soil should range from slightly acidic to neutral (6.0 to 7.5). Dichrostachys arborea N.E.Br. thrives in areas with high rainfall amounts and can tolerate short dry spells.
Cultivation
Dichrostachys arborea N.E.Br. is normally propagated from seeds, which should first be soaked in warm water for about 24 hours before planting. The plant should be grown in a place with well-drained, loamy soil, and full sunlight exposure. The plant can also be grown in containers, but regularly transplanting is necessary.
Watering Needs
Dichrostachys arborea N.E.Br. has medium drought tolerance, and it requires regular watering during the growing season. The plant needs enough water to keep the soil moist, but not soaked, especially during the first year after planting. During dry seasons, regular watering is necessary to help it grow and prevent it from drying out.
Fertilization
Dichrostachys arborea N.E.Br. requires little maintenance, but regular fertilization is necessary to ensure healthy growth and flowering. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus can be added once a month during the growing season. Overfertilizing should be avoided, as it can result in weak growth and, ultimately, affect the plant's health.
Pruning
Dichrostachys arborea N.E.Br. requires pruning to remove old, diseased, or damaged branches. Pruning should be done before the growing season, normally in late winter to early spring, before new growth appears. Crossing and rubbing branches should also be eliminated to improve the plant's shape and improve the flowering. Regular pruning can also promote healthy growth and increased flowering.
Propagation of Dichrostachys Arborea N.E.Br.
Dichrostachys arborea N.E.Br. can be propagated through various methods. The most common methods of propagation are:
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the most common method to propagate D. arborea. After collecting the seeds, they are soaked in warm water for 24 hours to soften the hard outer shell. This helps the seed to germinate quickly and efficiently. Then, the seeds are sown in a well-drained potting mix, and it is covered with a thin layer of sand. The pot is kept in shade with constant moisture until germination occurs.
Cuttings Propagation
Dichrostachys arborea can also be propagated by cuttings. Semi-hardwood cuttings of 6-8 inches length are collected and treated with a rooting hormone. The cuttings are then planted in a well-drained potting mixture, where they are kept in shade with constant moisture. The roots develop within four to six weeks, and the plant is then transplanted to its original location.
Air Layering
Air Layering is another propagation method for D. arborea. This technique is used to propagate mature trees. It involves girdling a stem, treating it with rooting hormone, and covering it with a moist medium. New roots emerge from the girdled area, and once they develop, the rooted stem is removed from the parent plant, and planted in a well-drained soil mixture.
Disease and Pest Management for Dichrostachys arborea N.E.Br.
Dichrostachys arborea N.E.Br., commonly known as the African wildpeach, is a small tree or shrub that is native to tropical and subtropical Africa. It is grown for its ornamental value and as a source of timber, medicine, and food. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can cause serious damage. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves and stems of the plant, which can eventually lead to defoliation and stunting. It thrives in warm and humid conditions and can spread rapidly. To manage anthracnose, you can remove and destroy infected plant parts, improve air circulation, and apply fungicides.
Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by several fungi that produce circular, brown or black spots on the leaves, which can merge and cause the leaves to yellow and drop prematurely. It is favored by moist conditions and poor sanitation. To manage leaf spot, you can practice good sanitation, remove and destroy infected plant parts, and apply fungicides.
Rust: This fungal disease produces orange or brown pustules on the leaves, which can cause severe defoliation and weaken the plant. It is spread by wind and water. To manage rust, you can remove and destroy infected plant parts, improve air circulation, and apply fungicides.
Common Pests
Twig Borers: These insects bore into the twigs and branches of the plant, causing wilting, dieback, and even death. They are attracted to stressed and weakened plants. To manage twig borers, you can prune and destroy infested branches, apply insecticides, and maintain the plant's health and vigor.
Scale Insects: These insects attach themselves to the stems and leaves of the plant and suck the sap, causing yellowing, wilting, and deformity. They produce a sticky substance called honeydew, which attracts ants and fosters fungal growth. To manage scale insects, you can prune and destroy infested plant parts, apply insecticides, and encourage natural predators such as ladybugs.
Spider Mites: These tiny pests attach themselves to the undersides of the leaves and suck the sap, causing yellowing, stippling, and webbing. They thrive in hot and dry conditions and can reproduce rapidly. To manage spider mites, you can spray the plant with water to increase humidity, apply insecticidal soap or oil, or introduce predatory mites.
By being vigilant and taking timely action, you can prevent and manage diseases and pests in Dichrostachys arborea N.E.Br. and ensure its health and productivity.
