Overview of Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight & Arn. subsp. cinerea
Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight & Arn. subsp. cinerea is a deciduous tree that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is commonly known as the sickle bush, Chinese lantern tree, and African Easter tree. The tree is native to Africa and can be found in various parts of the continent, including Egypt, Kenya, Somalia, and Zimbabwe.
General Appearance of Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight & Arn. subsp. cinerea
The Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight & Arn. subsp. cinerea tree can grow up to 10 meters tall. The trunk is usually short and twisted, with a grayish-brown bark that is rough in texture. The leaves are bipinnate, with numerous small leaflets attached to a single stem. The sickle-shaped pods that grow on the tree resemble Chinese lanterns, hence the common name 'Chinese lantern tree.'
Uses of Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight & Arn. subsp. cinerea
The Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight & Arn. subsp. cinerea tree has numerous uses, especially among the African communities. The tree is known for its medicinal properties, and different parts of the tree are used to treat a variety of ailments such as fever, snake bites, and dysentery, among others.
In addition, the bark is used to make a dye that is used to color textiles. The tree is also used as a shade tree, especially in places where other trees cannot thrive. Its wood is used in the making of furniture, fence posts, and fuelwood.
The tree's pods are a source of food for both humans and animals. The seeds inside the pods are edible, and they can also be used as animal feed.
Conclusion
The Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight & Arn. subsp. cinerea tree is a useful plant with numerous benefits. From its medicinal properties to its usefulness in various manufacturing processes, this tree is undoubtedly an essential part of the African ecosystem.
Light Requirements
Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight & Arn. subsp. cinerea is a hardy plant that tolerates both shade and direct sunlight. However, it usually thrives in full sun or partial shade. In areas with low light intensity, the plant may grow lanky and weak, leading to stunted growth and decreased productivity.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to Africa and, therefore, can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It does well in both tropical and subtropical climates. Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight & Arn. subsp. cinerea can withstand occasional frost, but extended exposure to freezing temperatures may damage or kill the plant. The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 20°C and 30°C.
Soil Requirements
The plant is adaptive to different soil types, especially those that are well-draining. Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight & Arn. subsp. cinerea can grow in sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it prefers soils with a pH range of 6.5 – 7.5. The plant has a deep root system, and therefore, requires soil that is at least 60cm deep. Additionally, the plant benefits from good soil fertility and can withstand occasional drought periods.
Cultivation Methods
Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight & Arn. subsp. cinerea is a hardy plant that can grow in harsh environments. It is drought-resistant and can survive in sandy soil. To cultivate this plant, choose an area that gets plenty of sunlight and has well-draining soil. The plant can be propagated from seeds or cuttings.
If propagating via seeds, they should be soaked in water for 24 hours before planting. Plant the seeds in well-prepared soil and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate. The plant should be kept in a warm place until germination. If using cuttings, select healthy stems and plant them in a pot with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist until the cuttings have established roots.
Watering Needs
Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight & Arn. subsp. cinerea requires moderate watering. The plant should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry. Overwatering the plant can cause root rot, while under-watering can cause the plant to wilt. During the dry season, the plant may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight & Arn. subsp. cinerea. The plant is adapted to grow in nutrient-poor soil. However, if the plant is grown in nutrient-deficient soil, fertilization can help improve growth. A slow-release fertilizer can be added to the soil during the growing season.
Pruning
Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight & Arn. subsp. cinerea is a shrubby plant that requires little pruning. However, if the plant becomes too large or tangled, it can be pruned to maintain its shape and size. Pruning should be done in the dormant season to avoid damaging the new growth. Dead or damaged branches should be removed to improve the plant's overall health.
Propagation methods for Dichrostachys cinerea
Dichrostachys cinerea, also known as sicklebush, is propagated through several methods. Some of the propagation methods include:
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most commonly used method for propagating Dichrostachys cinerea. The seeds are collected from the plants during the dry season. The collected seeds are then sun-dried to remove any moisture and stored in a cool place for planting in the rainy season. The seeds are sowed directly in the field or in nursery beds. Seedlings emerge within 14-21 days and are ready for transplanting within 6-8 weeks.
Cuttings
Cuttings are obtained from matured trees and treated with rooting hormones before being planted in a rooting medium. The cuttings should be about 15-20cm long and should have at least two nodes. The rooting medium should be kept moist and the cuttings should be kept in shade until they have developed sufficient roots to be transplanted into the field or nursery bed.
Air layering
Air layering is another propagation method that is used for Dichrostachys cinerea. This involves making a cut in the branch of a mature tree and applying rooting hormones and wrapping the area with a moist sphagnum moss and plastic sheet. The roots will emerge from the cut area and once sufficient roots have developed, the branch is cut and the air layer is transplanted into the field or nursery bed.
Grafting
Grafting is not commonly used for propagating Dichrostachys cinerea. However, it can be used to propagate selected cultivars. For grafting, the scion is obtained from the desired cultivar and the rootstock is obtained from a healthy tree. The two are joined together and bound with a grafting tape. The grafted plants are then grown in a nursery bed until they are ready for transplanting into the field.
Disease Management for Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight & Arn. subsp. cinerea
Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight & Arn. subsp. cinerea is susceptible to various fungal and bacterial diseases. One of the most common diseases that affect the plant is leaf spot. It is caused by the fungus Cercospora dichrostachys and is characterized by the formation of circular spots with yellow margins on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, it is essential to prune any infected leaves and provide proper airflow by spacing the plants adequately. Fungicides may also be applied to control the spread of the disease.
Another fungal disease that can affect Dichrostachys cinerea is anthracnose. It is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and can cause serious damage to the plant. Anthracnose is characterized by the development of sunken lesions on the stems and leaves of the plant. It is essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and provide adequate ventilation to prevent this disease. Additionally, the application of fungicides can help control the spread of anthracnose.
Pest Management for Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight & Arn. subsp. cinerea
Dichrostachys cinerea is relatively resistant to pests. However, there are several pests that can damage the plant, including termites, mealybugs, and aphids. Termites can damage the roots of the plant, leading to stunted growth and eventual death. To control termites, it is essential to inspect the plant regularly and apply an appropriate insecticide if necessary.
Mealybugs and aphids are sap-sucking insects that can cause discoloration and deformity of the leaves. They secrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which attracts ants and other insects. To control mealybugs and aphids, it is essential to prune any infested parts of the plant and apply an appropriate insecticide. Horticultural oils can also be applied to control these pests.
In conclusion, maintaining proper cultural practices, including watering, pruning, and providing adequate ventilation, is critical in disease and pest management for Dichrostachys cinerea. Additionally, the use of appropriate fungicides and insecticides can help control the spread of diseases and pests.
