Origin
Englerophytum oblanceolatum (S.Moore) T.D.Penn., also known as Gilbertiodendron oblanceolatum, is a large tropical tree species that is native to several African countries. It is primarily found in the central African region, including Cameroon, Gabon, and Congo.
Common Names
The plant is known by various common names, including wenge, African rosewood, and bokonge. In Cameroon, it is called bilinga, while in Gabon it is known as kevazingo. The tree is considered a valuable timber species and is highly sought after for several uses.
Uses
The hard and durable timber produced by Englerophytum oblanceolatum is prized for its strength, durability, and resistance to termites and other insects. The timber is used to make furniture, floors, and panelling. It is also used for boat building and in the construction of bridges and railway sleepers. The bark of the tree has medicinal properties and has been traditionally used to treat various ailments.
General Appearance
The Englerophytum oblanceolatum tree can grow up to 50 meters tall and has a trunk diameter of up to 2 meters. The tree has a straight and cylindrical trunk that is often free of branches for several meters. The tree has a broad, spreading crown with dense foliage that provides shade and shelter to wildlife. The leaves are dark green and lance-shaped, while the flowers are small and yellow. The fruit produced by the tree is a large, woody pod that contains multiple seeds.
Growth Conditions of Englerophytum oblanceolatum (S.Moore) T.D.Penn.
Englerophytum oblanceolatum, also known as African rosewood, is a tree commonly found in tropical Africa. It typically grows up to 25 meters tall with a diameter of up to 1 meter. The tree has a straight trunk, a dense crown, and a broad shade. The following are the typical growth conditions required for this species:
Light
Englerophytum oblanceolatum requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and development. The species is intolerant to shade and cannot withstand high levels of competition for light. Therefore, the species thrives best in well-lit areas with direct sunlight exposure.
Temperature
Englerophytum oblanceolatum grows in warm tropical regions with a mean annual temperature ranging from 18 °C to 32 °C. The species can withstand temperatures as high as 38 °C and as low as 10 °C but does not tolerate frost. In areas with temperature extremes, the species may undergo leaf drop to reduce water loss.
Soil Requirements
The species grows best in deep, well-drained, and fertile soils. Englerophytum oblanceolatum prefers soils with a pH range of 5.0 to 7.5 and does not tolerate soils with high salinity. The species does not thrive in water-logged soils as it may lead to root rot. Therefore, it is recommended to plant the species on gently sloping terrain to avoid waterlogging.
In conclusion, Englerophytum oblanceolatum requires full sunlight exposure, a warm tropical climate, and deep well-drained soils with a neutral pH for optimal growth. These growth conditions are critical for the successful cultivation of this species.
Cultivation methods
Englerophytum oblanceolatum (S.Moore) T.D.Penn. plant is usually cultivated from seed. The seeds should be collected during the fruiting season, cleaned and soaked in water for a day. After soaking, plant the seeds in a well-draining potting mix with good aeration.
The plant prefers full sunlight, and when grown indoors, it should be placed in a spot with bright light. It is also recommended to place them in areas with high humidity conditions which can be achieved by placing water-filled trays around the plant.
Watering needs
Englerophytum oblanceolatum (S.Moore) T.D.Penn. prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate dry conditions once established. Watering should be reduced significantly during winter to prevent root rot. However, during the growing season, the plant should be watered when the soil becomes dry to touch. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot and ultimately plant death.
Fertilization
During active growth, it is recommended to fertilize the plant monthly with a balanced fertilizer. Use of organic fertilizers can also be used to supplement soil nutrients, but in small amounts.
Pruning
Pruning should be done annually to encourage bushy growth. Prune out any dead or diseased stems and branches, and cut back overgrown branches to promote new growth. If the plant has grown too tall, it can be trimmed down to the desired height.
Propagation of Englerophytum oblanceolatum
Englerophytum oblanceolatum can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, and grafting.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of Englerophytum oblanceolatum can be harvested from the mature fruits. The seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours prior to planting. The best time to sow the seeds is during the rainy season. The seeds should be planted shallowly in a mixture of sand and soil and kept moist. Germination typically occurs within 2 to 4 weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Englerophytum oblanceolatum can be propagated using softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants during the rainy season and treated with a rooting hormone. Cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil and regularly misted. Rooting usually occurs within 4 to 6 weeks.
Propagation by Grafting
Grafting is a common propagation method for Englerophytum oblanceolatum. The scion, which is a piece of desired plant material, is grafted onto a rootstock of related species. The two parts are joined together and bound until they grow together. Grafting allows for the desired plant to inherit the disease resistance or other desirable traits of the rootstock.
Disease and Pest Management for Englerophytum oblanceolatum
Englerophytum oblanceolatum (S.Moore) T.D.Penn., commonly known as African mahogany, is a tree species that is primarily found in central and southern Africa. African mahogany is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can significantly impact its growth and production. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggest ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
Root Rot Root rot is a fungal disease that affects African mahogany's roots systems, leading to stunted growth and eventual death. The disease thrives in damp, poorly drained soil conditions. To manage root rot, ensure that you plant African mahogany in well-draining soil, avoid overwatering and remove infected plants from the site immediately.
Anthracnose Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects African mahogany leaves, causing brown spots and leaf drop. The disease thrives in humid environments and can spread rapidly. To manage anthracnose, prune infected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly. Ensure that African Mahogany is spaced appropriately to allow for good air circulation, promoting faster drying of the plant leaves.
Leaf Rust Leaf rust is a fungal disease that affects African mahogany during the wet season. The disease causes yellow or orange spots on the leaves and leads to leaf drop. To manage leaf rust, remove infected leaves immediately and prune the limbs that support infected foliage. Also, avoid overhead watering as it promotes the spread of leaf rust by providing a moist environment for fungal spores to thrive.
Common Pests
Mealybugs Mealybugs are common sap-sucking insects found on African mahogany trees. The pests feed on plant sap, resulting in deformed growth and yellowing leaves. To manage mealybugs, you can use insecticidal soaps or oils to suffocate the pests. Also, encourage natural predators like ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps to feed on population as a biological control technique.
Caterpillars Caterpillars are common pests of African Mahogany that feed on foliage, weakening the plant. You can control caterpillar population by physically removing the insects and destroying their webs. Insecticidal soaps or Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) can also be applied to the affected area.
Termite Termites can cause significant damage to African mahogany since they chew through the plant's root system. Termites are usually recognized when large piles of sawdust are discovered near the base of the tree. To manage the termites, the use of nematodes that feed on termites is the best biological control option. You can also apply insecticidal sprays or soil application of insecticides.
