Overview of Elaeodendron papillosum Hochst.
Elaeodendron papillosum Hochst. is a flowering plant that belongs to the Celastraceae family. This plant is known by different common names in different regions, such as Soapberry, Oliwood, and Sagargota. The plant is native to eastern and southern Africa, including Tanzania, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe.
Appearance of Elaeodendron papillosum Hochst.
Elaeodendron papillosum Hochst. is a deciduous tree that can reach up to 10 meters in height. The tree trunk is usually crooked and has a grayish-brown bark. The leaves are a glossy dark green and oval-shaped, with a finely serrated margin. The trees produce small greenish flowers that are followed by round berries that are creamy-white in color and contain a single seed.
Uses of Elaeodendron papillosum Hochst.
The wood of the Elaeodendron papillosum Hochst. tree is hard and heavy, and it is used for furniture, carving and other woodworking projects. The berries contain saponins and can be used as a soap substitute, hence the common name Soapberry. The crushed bark of the tree has medicinal uses and is used to treat various ailments, including coughs and respiratory infections.
Growth Conditions of Elaeodendron papillosum Hochst.
Elaeodendron papillosum Hochst., also known as the large-fruited parachute tree, is a species in the family Celastraceae that is endemic to Tanzania. This tree typically grows in tropical lowland forests and savannas and can reach heights of up to 20 meters.
Light Requirements
Elaeodendron papillosum Hochst. prefers bright, but indirect light, which means it grows best in partially shaded areas. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves and cause them to fall off, which ultimately stunts the growth of the tree. It is an understory tree and grows best in canopy cover of 30% to 50%.
Temperature Requirements
Elaeodendron papillosum Hochst. thrives in warm and humid conditions. The tree prefers temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C, and anything below 15°C can cause damage to the tree. Frost is extremely harmful to Elaeodendron papillosum Hochst., and it cannot withstand temperatures below 0°C.
Soil Requirements
Elaeodendron papillosum Hochst. grows best in well-drained soils with high levels of organic matter. The soil must be moist but not waterlogged, and the tree is adaptable to soils with a wide range of pH levels, from acidic soils with a pH of 4.5 to alkaline soils with a pH of 8.0. However, the soil should not be too nutrient-rich, as an excess of nutrients can cause damage to the tree's root system.
Cultivation methods
Elaeodendron papillosum Hochst., also known as Divi-Divi or Chairtree, is a drought-tolerant plant that can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. This plant prefers a sunny location and can tolerate high temperatures. When planting Divi-Divi, it is essential to provide enough space for the tree to grow and spread its branches.Watering needs
Divi-Divi is a drought-tolerant plant, but it is still necessary to keep the soil moist during the first few months after planting. Once established, the plant can go for extended periods without water. During the dry season, it is crucial to water the plant once a week or as needed, depending on the soil's moisture content. It is best to water the plant in the early morning or late afternoon when the temperature is more moderate.Fertilization
Elaeodendron papillosum Hochst. does not require a lot of fertilizers. However, to promote healthier growth and produce more fruit, it is recommended to fertilize the plant at least twice a year. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer at the beginning of the rainy season and towards the end of the dry season.Pruning
Pruning Divi-Divi is not necessary, but it can be helpful to remove damaged or dead branches. The best time to prune the tree is at the end of the fruiting season. Ensure that the pruning tools are clean and sharp to avoid damaging the tree. Always cut back to the collar of the branch to prevent injuring the tree. Pruning can help improve the tree's structure and promote healthier growth.Propagation of Elaeodendron papillosum Hochst.
Elaeodendron papillosum Hochst. is a small tree or shrub that belongs to the family Celastraceae. It is commonly known as “Umzimbeet” and is native to South Africa. The plant is propagated through seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Elaeodendron papillosum Hochst. can be collected from the ripe fruit. The collected seeds should be cleaned and dried before sowing. The seeds require scarification to break the hard seed coat for better germination. Scarification can be done by rubbing the seeds with sandpaper or by dipping them in hot water.
The seeds can be sown in well-draining soil mixed with compost. The sowing can be done in seed trays or directly in the field. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist. Germination usually takes 3-4 weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Elaeodendron papillosum Hochst. can be propagated by softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings. Softwood cuttings can be taken during the growing season, while semi-hardwood cuttings can be taken during late summer or early autumn.
The cuttings should be 10-15 cm long and should have at least 2-3 nodes. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the remaining leaves should be trimmed to reduce water loss. The cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in well-draining soil mixed with sand or perlite.
The cuttings should be kept in a warm, humid environment with bright, indirect light. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. The cuttings usually root in 4-6 weeks.
Propagation by Layering
Elaeodendron papillosum Hochst. can be propagated by layering the branches. Layering can be done during the growing season.
A low branch should be selected, and a small notch should be made on the underside of the branch. The branch should be bent down and placed in a shallow trench filled with soil. The notched part of the branch should be covered with soil, leaving only the tip above the ground.
The layered branch should be kept moist, and roots should form within 4-6 weeks. The new plant can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted to a new location.
Disease and Pest Management for Elaeodendron papillosum Hochst.
Elaeodendron papillosum Hochst. is a popular ornamental plant that is native to Africa. While it is generally a hardy plant, it is susceptible to a few diseases and pests that can weaken the plant if not promptly managed.
Common Diseases
Leaf spot disease: This disease is caused by a fungus that thrives in moist environments. The first sign of leaf spot disease is the appearance of small spots on the leaves, which eventually enlarge and develop a yellowish halo. To manage the disease, remove the infected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant.
Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that can be caused by over-watering or poorly drained soil. It causes the roots to turn brown and mushy, and the plant starts to wilt as it loses nutrients and water. To manage the disease, remove the infected parts and repot the plant in fresh soil.
Common Pests
Spider mites: These pests are tiny, spider-like creatures that suck the sap from the leaves. They are found on the underside of the leaves and cause the foliage to appear yellow and stippled. To manage spider mites, spray the leaves with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, powdery insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant. They secrete a sticky substance that attracts ants and can lead to the development of black sooty mold. To manage mealybugs, wipe the leaves with alcohol-soaked cotton swabs or spray the plant with insecticidal soap.
Scale insects: Scale insects are small, flat, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant. They feed on the sap, causing the leaves to yellow and drop prematurely. To manage scale insects, wipe the leaves and stems with a damp cloth or spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Regular inspection and prompt management of diseases and pests are essential to minimize damage to Elaeodendron papillosum Hochst. With proper care and attention, this ornamental plant can thrive and enhance the beauty of your garden or indoor space.
