Origin
Ehretia abyssinica R.Br. ex Fresen. var. silvatica (Gürke) Riedl is a plant species that originated from Ethiopia and shares a wider distribution range across various African countries like Tanzania, Sudan, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as the Forest-trumpet-wood, Forest Ehretia, or East African andehretia in English-speaking countries. Locally, the plant is referred to as ‘’Mphamba’’ in Tanzania and ‘’Endod’’ in Ethiopia.
Uses
Since the plant species is a rich source of phytochemicals, it has traditional applications, including being used as a remedy to help the treatment of various diseases, including malaria, diarrhea, bacterial infections, and snakebites. The plant also has antifungal, antimalarial, and anti-inflammatory properties, and this makes it a useful plant in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries.
General Appearance
Ehretia abyssinica R.Br. ex Fresen. var. silvatica (Gürke) Riedl is a semi-deciduous woody tree that grows up to 20m tall and 50cm dbh. The trunk of the tree is often gnarled and twisted, the bark is smooth, grayish to reddish-brown, and has vertical cracks that deepens with age. The tree leaves are simple, ovate, or elliptical in shape, measuring between 5-15 cm long and 3-10 cm wide, and feature a serrated margin. The flowers are borne on dense and pyramidal inflorescence that grows up to 11 cm long and 4 cm wide, and they are later followed by succulent and ovoid black fruits which can be used in the manufacturing of dye, rope, and soap.
Light requirements
Ehretia abyssinica var. silvatica requires full sunlight for its optimal growth. It cannot tolerate shady conditions for an extended period. Therefore, it would be best to plant this species in an open area with direct access to sunlight. A minimum of six hours of direct sunlight is recommended for the plant to develop correctly.
Temperature requirements
Being a tropical species, Ehretia abyssinica var. silvatica grows well in warm climates. It requires a temperature range between 20°C to 35°C for its optimal growth and development. This species can tolerate moderately cold temperatures but cannot survive in freezing conditions.
Soil requirements
The growth of Ehretia abyssinica var. silvatica is somewhat dependent on the soil type and quality. This species prefers well-drained, loamy soils rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH range between 5.5 to 6.5. It cannot grow well in sandy or heavy clay soils.
Adequate drainage is crucial, and the soil should not be excessively wet. Over-wet soils can cause root rot and, in severe cases, lead to the death of the plant. Proper aeration of the soil is also necessary for healthy root growth and nutrient uptake.
Cultivation Methods
Ehretia abyssinica R.Br. ex Fresen. var. silvatica (Gürke) Riedl is a tropical plant that thrives in warm climates. It can grow well in full sun and partial shade. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organics matter. The plant grows naturally as a bush, but it can be trained to grow as a tree with the proper pruning techniques.Watering Needs
Proper watering is crucial for the growth and survival of Ehretia abyssinica R.Br. ex Fresen. var. silvatica (Gürke) Riedl. It requires moderate watering and can tolerate periodic droughts. Overwatering can cause root rot and other moisture-related problems. Therefore, it is essential to water the plant regularly but only when the soil is dry.Fertilization
Ehretia abyssinica R.Br. ex Fresen. var. silvatica (Gürke) Riedl can benefit from regular fertilization. It needs a balanced fertilizer with a higher content of nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) but less phosphorus (P). The application of fertilizer should be done during the growing season. It can be applied every four to six weeks to promote healthy growth.Pruning
Pruning is an essential part of maintaining the health and appearance of Ehretia abyssinica R.Br. ex Fresen. var. silvatica (Gürke) Riedl. It can be pruned to maintain its natural bush form or trained to grow as a tree. Proper pruning can help to stimulate new growth, control the size and shape of the plant, and remove diseased or damaged branches. Ideally, pruning should be done after the plant has flowered.Propagation of Ehretia abyssinica R.Br. ex Fresen. var. silvatica (Gürke) Riedl
Ehretia abyssinica R.Br. ex Fresen. var. silvatica (Gürke) Riedl, commonly known as the forested trumpet tree, is a slow-growing tree that can be propagated through several methods.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagation for Ehretia abyssinica is seed propagation. The seeds are harvested when they are mature and viable and can be sown directly into the soil. The seeds must be sown at a depth of about 1-2 cm in a well-draining soil mixture. Seedlings should emerge within 2-3 weeks after sowing, and they should be watered regularly for optimal growth.
Cuttings Propagation
Another method of propagation for Ehretia abyssinica is through stem cuttings. Stem cuttings are taken from the parent plant and treated with rooting hormone before being planted in a well-prepared soil mixture. Cuttings should be placed in a greenhouse or a warm, humid environment to encourage root growth. The rooted cuttings can be transplanted into individual containers or directly into the soil when they are large enough.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another propagation method that can be used for Ehretia abyssinica. This method involves making a small incision in a mature stem of the parent plant and then surrounding the incision with moist sphagnum moss. After a few weeks, roots will form on the stem where it was wounded, and the stem can then be removed and planted in a well-prepared soil mixture.
Disease Management
Ehretia abyssinica R.Br. ex Fresen. var. silvatica (Gürke) Riedl can be affected by a range of diseases, including powdery mildew, root rot, and leaf spot.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew can be identified by the white, powdery growth on leaves and stems. It can stunt plant growth and reduce yield. To manage powdery mildew, remove and destroy infected plant parts immediately and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides may also be used.
Root rot: Root rot is caused by soilborne fungi that attack the plant's roots and can lead to wilting and yellowing of leaves. Plants can be protected from root rot by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering. Fungicides may also be used.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot can be identified by dark, water-soaked lesions on leaves that may turn yellow and fall off the plant. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected plant parts immediately and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides may also be used.
Pest Management
Ehretia abyssinica R.Br. ex Fresen. var. silvatica (Gürke) Riedl can also be affected by a range of pests, including mealybugs, scales, and spider mites.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white insects that can be found in cottony clusters on the plant. They feed on plant sap and can cause wilting and yellowing of leaves. Mealybugs can be managed by removing and destroying infected plant parts and using insecticidal soap or oil.
Scales: Scales are small, flat insects that can be found on leaves and stems. They also feed on plant sap and can cause wilting and yellowing of leaves. Scales can be managed by removing and destroying infected plant parts and using insecticidal soap or oil.
Spider mites: Spider mites are very small and may be difficult to spot with the naked eye. They can cause yellowing and stippling on leaves. Spider mites can be managed by spraying the plant with water to remove them and using insecticidal soap or oil.
