Overview of Dichrostachys glomerata
Dichrostachys glomerata (Forssk.) Chiov. is a thorny and deciduous tree that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is commonly known as the Sickle Bush due to its curved seeds that resemble sickles. The plant is native to Africa, particularly in the dry and arid regions of the continent such as the Sahelian and Sudanian Savannas.
General Appearance
The Sickle Bush can grow up to a height of 8 meters with a spreading canopy. It has a single stem with rough and peeling bark that is dark brown to grey in color. The leaves of the tree are bipinnate, with each leaf measuring between 20-25 cm in length and bearing about 20-36 pairs of pinnae. The tree produces small, yellow, and fragrant flowers that grow in dense clusters. The fruits of the tree are long and narrow pods that reach a length of up to 20 cm.
Uses
The various parts of the Sickle Bush plant have different traditional uses among the communities in which it grows. The bark of the tree is used for tanning leather while its roots and leaves are used for medicinal purposes. The roots and bark of the Sickle Bush are boiled to make a tea that is used to treat coughs, diarrhea, and vomiting. The leaves and pods of the plant have high nutritional value and can be used as animal fodder. The tree is also used in land rehabilitation as it can tolerate poor soils and has a rapid growth rate.
In addition, the Sickle Bush is used for fencing and as a source of firewood. The tree's dense branches and thorns make it an excellent barrier to livestock and wildlife. Its wood is hard and dense and popularly used for making furniture, tool handles, and construction poles. Furthermore, the plant is widely grown as an ornamental plant as it produces a beautiful canopy of green foliage.
Overall, the Sickle Bush has numerous uses and is a valuable plant in the African ecosystem.
Light Requirements:
Dichrostachys glomerata is a species that prefers full sun exposure. It is capable of tolerating light shade, but it grows best when exposed to full sun. A minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight is typically required for optimum growth and development.
Temperature Requirements:
Dichrostachys glomerata is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It is capable of growing in temperatures ranging from 10°C to 38°C. The plant can withstand frosts and cold temperatures as low as -5°C. However, it is important to note that prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures may affect the plant's growth and development.
Soil Requirements:
Dichrostachys glomerata is a plant species that is able to grow in a variety of soil types. It prefers well-draining soils with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. The plant is capable of tolerating acidic soil but cannot grow in waterlogged or saline soils. It grows best in soils rich in organic matter, and it requires regular fertilization for optimal growth. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are essential nutrients that must be available in the soil.
Cultivation Methods
Dichrostachys glomerata (Forssk.) Chiov. is a drought-resistant plant that can grow in various soil types, including loam, sand, and clay. It requires bright sunlight and moderate temperatures to thrive. You can propagate the plant using seeds or cuttings, and it grows well in pots or in the ground.
Watering Needs
Water Dichrostachys glomerata (Forssk.) Chiov. regularly but avoid overwatering, as this may lead to root rot. The plant is drought-resistant, so you only need to water it when the soil is dry. Make sure the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
Apply fertilizer to Dichrostachys glomerata (Forssk.) Chiov. twice a year during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with a higher nitrogen content to encourage foliar growth. Do not fertilize the plant during dormancy.
Pruning
Prune Dichrostachys glomerata (Forssk.) Chiov. in the dormant season to remove dead or damaged branches. You can also shape the plant to your desired form during this period. Avoid pruning the plant during the growing season, as this may stunt its growth.
Propagation of Dichrostachys glomerata
Dichrostachys glomerata (Forssk.) Chiov. commonly known as the ‘Sickle Bush’ or ‘Chinese lantern tree,’ is a fast-growing medicinal plant that is easily propagated through various methods. Propagation of the plant ensures its continuity in the ecosystem and continuous availability for use.
Propagation Methods
Seed Propagation: Dichrostachys glomerata is propagated through seed. The seeds can be collected from ripe pods during the flowering period. The seed pods can be sun-dried and cracked open to remove the seeds. The seeds are further cleaned and sown in the nurseries. The seedlings emerge within 14 to 21 days and are ready for transplanting after 4 to 6 months. Seed propagation allows genetic variability to be maintained.
Vegetative Propagation: Dichrostachys glomerata can be propagated vegetatively through cuttings, layering, and grafting.
Cuttings: Cuttings are taken from the mature plant during the dormant period. Semi-hardwood stem cuttings of a diameter of 0.5 to 0.8 cm and length of 10 to 15 cm are used. The cuttings are treated with hormone rooting powder before being planted in a mixture of sand and loam soil media. The cuttings will root after a few weeks and are ready for transplant after 3 to 4 months.
Layering: Layering involves bending the stem of the plant, scraping off the bark, and covering it with the soil medium. The covered section of the stem will root, forming a new plant while still attached to the parent plant. After a few months, the rooted layer is separated from the parent plant and transplanted into a new pot.
Grafting: Dichrostachys glomerata can also be propagated through grafting. The plant is grafted onto a rootstock of the same or closely related species. Grafting is done by cutting the branch of the mature plant and attaching to the rootstock and tying the two together. Grafting increases the rate of growth and uniformity in plant characteristics.
The choice of propagation method will depend on the availability of planting material, environmental conditions, and desired plant characteristics.
Disease and Pest Management for Dichrostachys glomerata (Forssk.) Chiov.
Dichrostachys glomerata (Forssk.) Chiov., commonly known as the Sickle Bush, is a tough, drought-resistant shrub found in various regions of Africa. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to pests and disease that can significantly reduce its productivity and cause damage.
Common diseases that affect Dichrostachys glomerata
1. Canker disease: Canker disease is caused by the fungus Phoma exigua. The fungus can invade and damage the bark and cambium layer of the shrub causing sunken areas on the stem. This disease is common in wet areas.
2. Wilt disease: The fungus Fusarium oxysporum causes wilt disease, which infects the roots and vascular system of the shrub. The disease causes leaves to droop and may lead to the death of the shrub.
Managing diseases affecting Dichrostachys glomerata
Managing diseases in Dichrostachys glomerata involves the following practices:
1. Sanitation: Regular pruning and removal of infected parts from the shrub to prevent further spread of infections.
2. Fungicides: The use of fungicides can help to control the spread of the disease. Consult a professional on the most effective fungicide to use.
Common pests that affect Dichrostachys glomerata
1. Leaf miners: Leaf miners are pests that feed on the leaves of the shrub, causing them to dry and fall off prematurely. The pest is most active during hot, dry conditions.
2. Scale insects: Scale insects are sap-sucking pests that attach themselves on leaves, stems and branches, and cause the plant to dry due to its draining of vital plant nutrients.
Managing pests affecting Dichrostachys glomerata
Managing pests in Dichrostachys glomerata involves the following practices:
1. Insects spray: Spraying the shrub with insecticides, which are most effective during the early stages of infestation. Consult a professional on a suitable insecticide to use.
2. Natural predators: Natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings can help control the spread of pests without using chemicals.
By implementing the above practices, it is possible to keep Dichrostachys glomerata healthy and productive.
